The song “What a Beautiful Name” has become one of the most beloved and widely sung worship tracks of the last decade. Written by Ben Fielding and Brooke Ligertwood of Hillsong Worship, its lyrics resonate deeply with people from all walks of life.
The song’s stirring melody, combined with its profound message about the wonder, power, and beauty of the name of Jesus, has captivated worshipers in churches and gatherings around the world. It’s a song that effortlessly bridges generations, inviting both new believers and seasoned Christians to reflect on the awe-inspiring nature of God.
Whether you’ve heard it in a small chapel or a stadium packed with thousands, “What a Beautiful Name” has a unique way of touching the heart and soul. Its lyrics don’t just tell a story—they invite us into a personal encounter with something greater, reminding us that the name we sing about carries hope, strength, and endless possibility.
Let’s explore what makes the lyrics of “What a Beautiful Name” so powerful and enduring, and why this song continues to inspire so many.
The Origins of “What a Beautiful Name” Lyrics
The creation of “What a Beautiful Name” is a story rooted in collaboration, inspiration, and a desire to communicate the central truths of Christianity through song. Released in 2016 by Hillsong Worship, the song quickly rose in popularity, topping charts and becoming a staple in worship services worldwide.
Ben Fielding and Brooke Ligertwood sought to write lyrics that were both theologically rich and emotionally accessible. They drew inspiration from Scripture, particularly the New Testament, emphasizing the significance and power of the name of Jesus.
The writing process involved deep theological reflection, prayer, and an acute awareness of the global impact worship music can have.
One of the remarkable aspects of the song’s lyrics is how they manage to be both poetic and doctrinally sound. The writers intentionally avoided vague language, opting instead for statements that are clear, bold, and rooted in biblical truth.
This commitment to clarity is part of what has made the song so enduring.
“The name of Jesus is not only beautiful, it’s powerful and wonderful. We wanted people to experience the fullness of who He is through these lyrics.” — Brooke Ligertwood
- Released: 2016
- Writers: Ben Fielding and Brooke Ligertwood
- Published by: Hillsong Music
- Scriptural Inspiration: Hebrews 1:1-4, Colossians 1:15-20
Analyzing the Lyrics: Structure and Themes
The lyrics of “What a Beautiful Name” are structured in a way that naturally builds from adoration to declaration. Each verse and chorus serves a distinct purpose, inviting listeners to move deeper into worship and reflection.
The opening verse sets the stage by focusing on the divinity of Jesus and His presence from the beginning of creation. The chorus then elevates the mood by repeating the song’s central refrain, highlighting the beauty, wonder, and power of Jesus’ name.
The bridge shifts the tone, boldly declaring Christ’s victory over death and the believer’s access to God.
There’s a deliberate progression in the lyrics that mirrors a journey of faith. The song starts with quiet awe, grows into passionate praise, and culminates in a triumphant proclamation of hope.
This dynamic structure is part of what makes the song so compelling in a live worship context.
- Themes: Divinity, redemption, victory, love, hope
- Structure: Verse – Chorus – Verse – Chorus – Bridge – Chorus
“Death could not hold You, the veil tore before You. You silence the boast of sin and grave.” — What a Beautiful Name lyrics
Key Repeated Phrases
- “What a beautiful name it is”
- “The name of Jesus”
- “You have no rival, You have no equal”
Each of these lines reinforces the song’s core message and ensures it remains memorable long after the music fades.
Theological Depth and Biblical References
At the heart of “What a Beautiful Name” lies a deep well of theology. The song’s lyrics are not just poetic; they are grounded in biblical truth, making the song both worshipful and instructive.
Much of the song draws from foundational Christian beliefs about the nature and work of Jesus. The lines “You were the Word at the beginning, One with God the Lord Most High” echo the opening verses of the Gospel of John.
The bridge references Christ’s victory over death, which is central to the Christian faith and is celebrated in verses like 1 Corinthians 15:55-57.
Throughout the lyrics, there is an emphasis on the unique authority and power of the name of Jesus. This is a theme that resonates throughout Scripture—Philippians 2:9-11, for example, describes how God gave Jesus the name above every name, so that at His name every knee should bow.
| Lyric | Biblical Reference |
| You were the Word at the beginning | John 1:1 |
| Death could not hold You | Acts 2:24 |
| The veil tore before You | Matthew 27:51 |
| You have no rival, You have no equal | Isaiah 45:5 |
This strong biblical foundation sets “What a Beautiful Name” apart from many other worship songs and contributes to its lasting impact.
Emotional Impact on Listeners
The emotional resonance of “What a Beautiful Name” cannot be overstated. From its gentle opening lines to its soaring bridge, the song creates an atmosphere that encourages vulnerability, honesty, and connection with God.
Listeners often describe a sense of awe and gratitude when singing or hearing the lyrics. The song’s melody supports this emotional journey, starting with a soft, contemplative tone and building to a powerful climax.
This dynamic approach allows worshipers to move from reflection to celebration seamlessly.
One reason for the song’s widespread appeal is its accessibility. People from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and denominations have found meaning in the lyrics.
The message is universal, and the language is simple yet profound. Many have shared testimonies of how the song helped them through difficult times, providing hope and assurance.
“When I heard ‘What a Beautiful Name’ for the first time, I felt like God was speaking directly to me. The lyrics reminded me that no matter what I face, there’s power in His name.” — Worship attendee
- Creates space for both personal and corporate worship
- Encourages emotional expression and connection
- Frequently chosen for significant life moments like baptisms, weddings, and memorials
Usage in Worship and Popular Culture
Since its release, “What a Beautiful Name” has become a fixture in churches and at Christian events worldwide. Its lyrics are often projected on screens for congregational singing, and its melody is instantly recognizable to many worshipers.
Beyond the church, the song has had a presence in popular culture. It has been performed on television, at major conferences, and even in viral online videos.
Numerous artists and choirs have recorded their own renditions, each bringing a unique flavor to the original lyrics.
The accessibility of the lyrics makes it a favorite for music teams of varying skill levels. Whether played with a full band or just a piano, the song’s impact remains powerful.
It’s also frequently used in worship workshops and music education, where leaders teach the importance of clear, meaningful lyrics.
- Over 450 million YouTube views (official video)
- Covered in over 25 languages
- Winner of the 2018 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song
Comparative Table: “What a Beautiful Name” in Context
| Song | Year Released | Global Reach |
| What a Beautiful Name | 2016 | High |
| Shout to the Lord | 1993 | High |
| Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) | 2013 | Very High |
Its popularity is a testament to the enduring power of well-crafted lyrics and melodies that speak to the heart.
Key Lines and Their Meaning
Several lines from “What a Beautiful Name” have become iconic, frequently quoted in sermons, social media posts, and personal reflections. Each carries layers of meaning, inviting listeners to reflect more deeply on their faith.
“You were the Word at the beginning”
This line asserts the eternal existence of Jesus, echoing the prologue of John’s Gospel. It reminds us that Christ’s story doesn’t begin at Bethlehem, but stretches back to the very foundation of the world.
“Death could not hold You, the veil tore before You”
These words celebrate the resurrection, highlighting Jesus’ victory over death and the removal of barriers between God and humanity. The imagery of the torn veil signifies direct access to God, a theme packed with hope and freedom.
“You have no rival, You have no equal”
This bold declaration of Christ’s supremacy is a powerful statement of faith. It reassures believers that the name of Jesus stands above all others, unmatched in authority and love.
- Affirms Jesus’ divinity and preexistence
- Proclaims victory over sin and death
- Declares the uniqueness and supremacy of Christ
“What a powerful Name it is, the Name of Jesus Christ my King.” — What a Beautiful Name lyrics
Why Lyrics Matter: The Power of Words in Worship
Lyrics are the heart of any worship song, carrying the weight of theology, emotion, and communal identity. In “What a Beautiful Name,” every phrase is carefully chosen to communicate truth, encourage faith, and inspire awe.
Words have the power to shape our beliefs and experiences. When we sing lyrics that are anchored in Scripture and rich in meaning, we participate in a tradition that stretches back through centuries of worship.
The beauty of “What a Beautiful Name” is found not only in its melody, but in the precision and clarity of its language.
For worship leaders and songwriters, this song offers a masterclass in balancing artistry with doctrinal responsibility. The lyrics invite us to consider our own words—how we name, describe, and relate to God.
If you’re curious about the importance of naming and language in other contexts, you might enjoy reading about are species names capitalized or explore the fascinating history behind what is the name of HC2H3O2.
- Encourages theological reflection
- Shapes the emotional tone of worship
- Connects personal faith with communal identity
The right words can turn a simple melody into a life-changing encounter.
Legacy and Influence on Modern Worship
The impact of “What a Beautiful Name” goes far beyond its impressive streaming numbers and awards. Its lyrics have influenced countless worship leaders, songwriters, and everyday believers.
The song has set a new standard for what contemporary worship music can achieve, blending deep theology with accessible language and memorable melodies.
In the years since its release, we’ve seen a wave of worship songs that prioritize both doctrinal depth and emotional resonance. Many writers cite “What a Beautiful Name” as an inspiration for their own work, striving to create lyrics that are both meaningful and singable.
The song’s legacy is also evident in its use during significant moments—weddings, funerals, baptisms, and even public events. Its message is timeless, and its language continues to speak to new generations.
If you’re interested in how names and naming conventions shape meaning across fields, check out why do names come up red in iMessage or delve into who named Hollywood for a broader perspective.
- Inspired a new generation of worship music
- Frequently referenced in teaching and songwriting seminars
- Consistently ranked among the most-performed worship songs globally
“The legacy of a great worship song isn’t just in its lyrics, but in the lives it touches and the faith it strengthens.”
Learning From “What a Beautiful Name”: Takeaways for Songwriters and Worshipers
There’s much we can learn from the lyrics of “What a Beautiful Name,” whether we’re musicians, worship leaders, or simply lovers of great music. The song demonstrates the importance of clarity, biblical grounding, and emotional honesty in crafting words that resonate.
For songwriters, the success of “What a Beautiful Name” offers valuable lessons. Prioritizing the message, ensuring doctrinal soundness, and using universally accessible language are all key to creating enduring songs.
The collaborative process behind the song also highlights the value of teamwork and openness to feedback.
Worshipers, on the other hand, are reminded of the power of singing truth over their lives. Engaging with lyrics on a deeper level—reflecting on their meaning, praying through their phrases, and letting them shape our understanding of God—can transform the worship experience.
For those who enjoy exploring the significance of names and language, there’s a fascinating discussion about are PSN names case sensitive and even why Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego’s names were changed.
- Write with purpose and intention
- Anchor lyrics in Scripture
- Invite collaboration and feedback
- Engage with songs on a personal level
Ultimately, “What a Beautiful Name” challenges us to take words seriously—and to use them to point others toward hope, faith, and love.
Conclusion
“What a Beautiful Name” stands as a modern classic, not just because of its memorable melody, but because of the depth, clarity, and power of its lyrics. The song’s words have traveled across continents and cultures, uniting people in a shared declaration of faith.
They remind us that names—and the words we use—carry immense weight, shaping not only our worship but our entire outlook on life.
As we sing, reflect, or even simply read the lyrics of “What a Beautiful Name,” we’re invited into a story that’s bigger than ourselves. It’s a reminder that beauty, power, and wonder are found not in abstract ideas but in a person—Jesus—whose name is above every other.
Whether you’re a songwriter seeking inspiration, a worship leader planning your next set, or simply someone looking for hope, the enduring message of this song is for you. Let its lyrics inspire you to seek what is beautiful, powerful, and true—not just in music, but in every corner of your life.
