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Songs of Influence Blog:
There is probably no other Christian anthem that stirs the heart like this famous hymn!
Translated and composed by Stuart K. Hine, from the 1886 poem "O Great God", by Carl Boberg, it speaks of the awesome nature of our God - creating a special world for us to enjoy; loving us enough to spare us from His wrath in offering His Son as a sin sacrifice on our behalf; and the promise of eternal fellowship with Him after death.
Here are the lyrics of the original version, but for a special treat I thought I would post a New Zealand Maori version.
This song is sung at almost every Maori funeral.
There is something special and heart-warming when the Maori folk come together with just a guitar as accompaniment, and sing with love and passion with their unique, hauntingly beautiful tones.
I found this Maori / English version on Youtube, and it brought tears to me eyes.
It is a tribute from friends of 'Audrey Phillips', and features (among others) artists Fourtunate, Vince Harder, and 2009 Australian Idol winner Stan Walker front and centre.
Stan is a full-blooded Maori, even though he was born in Australia. These people are affectionately known as Maori Auzzies, or 'Mozzies'.
It is obvious from the clip that not all of them know the words, but you can still worship with your eyes closed if that distracts you!
Enjoy!
Lyrics to this version:
Whakaaria mai
Tōu rīpeka ki au
Tiaho mai
Rā roto i te pō
Hei kona au
Titiro atu ai.
Ora, mate,
Hei au koe noho ai
(x2)
(Translation:
Show Your Cross to me
Let it shine there in the darkness
To there, I will be looking
In life, in death
Let me rest in Thee.)
When Christ shall come
With shout of acclamation
And take me home
What joy shall fill my heart
Then I shall bow
In humble adoration
And there proclaim
My God, how great Thou art
Then sings my soul
My saviour God, to Thee
How great Thou art
How great Thou art
Then sings my soul
My saviour God, to Thee
How great Thou art
How great Thou art.
