“How Excellent Is Thy Name” is a timeless worship song that has been embraced by countless believers around the world. Its profound lyrics celebrate the majesty and holiness of God, expressing a deep reverence and awe for His name.
This song is widely used in both personal devotion and congregational worship, making it a significant piece of Christian music history.
In this article, we will explore the lyrics in detail, their meaning, and the impact this song has had on worship practices globally. We will also present the full lyrics in a clear format, discuss the song’s origin, and analyze its theological significance.
The Origins and Background
The song “How Excellent Is Thy Name” was written by Linda Stassen, an American Christian songwriter known for her heartfelt and uplifting worship songs. It was first released in the early 1980s and quickly gained popularity in churches worldwide.
The lyrics draw heavily from Biblical themes, particularly from the Psalms, where the excellence and holiness of God’s name are often praised. The song’s melodic simplicity and profound message have made it a staple in many hymnals and worship songbooks.
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” – Proverbs 18:10
This verse encapsulates the essence of the song, highlighting the power and safety found in God’s name.
Full Lyrics of “How Excellent Is Thy Name”
| Section | Lyrics |
|---|---|
| Verse 1 | How excellent is Thy name in all the earth! Who else commands all the heavens and all the stars? Who else can speak and the mountains stand still? Who else can say, ‘Peace be still’? |
| Chorus | How excellent is Thy name! How excellent is Thy name! |
| Verse 2 | Lord, our Lord, how excellent is Thy name in all the earth. How majestic is Your name, O Lord, our God. Your glory shines above the heavens. How excellent is Thy name in all the earth. |
| Bridge | Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty. Who was and is and is to come. We worship You, O Lord, How excellent is Thy name. |
Meaning and Theological Significance
The repeated emphasis on the phrase “How excellent is Thy name” speaks to the reverence and honor given to God’s name in Christian worship. The name of God represents His character, power, and presence.
In the Bible, a name is not just an identifier but a representation of essence and authority.
The lyrics highlight several key attributes of God:
- Omnipotence: “Who else can speak and the mountains stand still?” speaks of God’s supreme power over creation.
- Peace-giver: “Who else can say, ‘Peace be still’?” refers to the calming authority Jesus demonstrated over storms, symbolizing His control over chaos and turmoil.
- Majesty and Glory: “Your glory shines above the heavens” reflects God’s transcendence and splendor.
- Holiness: The bridge’s declaration of “Holy, holy, holy” echoes the biblical vision of God’s purity and separateness from sin.
“Your name, O Lord, is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe.” – Proverbs 18:10
This verse further affirms the protective and powerful nature of God’s name, a theme central to the song.
Usage in Worship
“How Excellent Is Thy Name” is often sung during worship services to focus the congregation’s attention on the greatness of God. Its simple yet profound lyrics allow worshippers to meditate deeply on God’s character.
The song’s structure, with a repetitive chorus, makes it easy for large groups to sing together, enhancing communal worship. It is frequently used during moments of adoration, thanksgiving, and reflection.
In many churches, this song serves as a bridge between sermon and prayer, helping believers to prepare their hearts for deeper engagement with God.
Musical Composition
The melody of “How Excellent Is Thy Name” is gentle and uplifting, typically performed in a moderate tempo. The harmonies are simple, often arranged for piano or guitar accompaniment, making it accessible for worship teams of varying skill levels.
The song’s repetitive chorus encourages congregational participation and allows worshippers to focus on the lyrics’ meaning rather than complex musicality. This musical simplicity complements the spiritual depth of the song’s message.
Comparison with Other Worship Songs
| Song | Theme | Musical Style | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| How Excellent Is Thy Name | God’s holiness and majesty | Simple, melodic, moderate tempo | Adoration and praise |
| Great Is Thy Faithfulness | God’s faithfulness and provision | Traditional hymn with rich melody | Thanksgiving and assurance |
| Holy, Holy, Holy | God’s holiness and sovereignty | Classic hymn with strong harmonies | Worship and reverence |
| How Great Thou Art | God’s greatness in creation and salvation | Powerful ballad style | Worship and praise |
Personal Reflection and Impact
Many believers testify that singing “How Excellent Is Thy Name” brings a renewed sense of awe and intimacy with God. The song encourages worshippers to reflect on the vastness of God’s nature and their place before Him.
Its lyrical simplicity and depth make it a perfect song for personal meditation or corporate worship. The repetitive chorus serves as a powerful reminder that God’s name is indeed excellent and worthy of all praise.
“Whenever I sing this song, I feel my heart lifted and my worries fade. It reminds me that no matter what happens, God’s name is higher than all.” – Worship Leader Testimony
Conclusion
“How Excellent Is Thy Name” stands as a beautiful and enduring expression of worship. Its rich Biblical foundation, heartfelt lyrics, and accessible musical style contribute to its lasting popularity.
Whether in a large congregation or a quiet moment alone, this song invites us to praise the holiness, power, and majesty of God. It reminds us that His name is not just a word but the source of our safety, peace, and hope.
In a world often filled with uncertainty and noise, “How Excellent Is Thy Name” calls us back to the unchanging, excellent name of the Lord.
