ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

 

“God saw all that He had made, and it was very good.” Genesis 1:31

Martin Fallas Shaw (1875-1958) Words: Cecil Frances Humphreys Alexander, Hymns for Little Children, 1848; original title: “Maker of Heaven and Earth.” Alexander is believed to have written these lyrics at Markree Castle, near Sligo, Ireland.

Music: “Royal Oak,” 17th Century English melody; arranged by Martin Fallas Shaw, 1915 (MIDI, score). Alternate tune:

  • “Bright and Beautiful,” by William Henry Monk
  • “Gerald,” Louis Spohr, 1834
Cecil Frances Humphreys Alexander (1818-1895)

Refrain

All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful:
The Lord God made them all.

Each little flower that opens,
Each little bird that sings,
God made their glowing colors,
And made their tiny wings.

Refrain

The purple headed mountains,
The river running by,
The sunset and the morning
That brightens up the sky.

Refrain

[The following verse is omitted from most hymnals]

The rich man in his castle,
The poor man at his gate,
He made them high or lowly,
And ordered their estate.

Refrain

The cold wind in the winter,
The pleasant summer sun,
The ripe fruits in the garden:
God made them every one.

Refrain

The tall trees in the greenwood,
The meadows where we play,
The rushes by the water,
We gather every day.

Refrain

God gave us eyes to see them,
And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty,
Who has made all things well.

Refrain

 

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