Lete All the World in Every Corner Sing

“Let All the World in Every Corner Sing” is a joyful and expansive hymn of praise by George Herbert, first published in his devotional poetry collection The Temple in 1633. Though originally written as a poem, it has become a cherished hymn because of its clear call to universal worship and its vibrant celebration of God’s glory. Herbert’s language reflects both poetic elegance and deep theological conviction, inviting all creation to lift its voice in praise to God.

The hymn opens with a sweeping summons that reaches every corner of the world, emphasizing that praise is not confined to one place, people, or circumstance. Herbert calls both heaven and earth to join together in worship, echoing the biblical vision of all creation glorifying God. This universal scope reflects the psalms, which repeatedly urge everything that has breath to praise the Lord. Praise, in Herbert’s vision, is the natural and joyful response of creation to the greatness of God.

A central theme of the hymn is the acknowledgment of Christ as Lord and King. Herbert directs worship not only upward to heaven but outward to the world, affirming that God’s reign extends everywhere. The hymn proclaims that Christ is worthy of praise because of who He is and what He has done, uniting creation, redemption, and kingship into a single song of worship. This makes the hymn both celebratory and confessional, declaring faith as well as joy.

The language of the hymn is bold and confident. There is no hesitation or uncertainty, only the expectation that praise should rise freely and fully from every heart. Herbert portrays worship as active, vocal, and communal, reminding believers that praise is not merely a private act but a shared proclamation of God’s glory. At the same time, the hymn calls each individual to participate personally in this global song.

Theologically, the hymn affirms the lordship of Christ over all creation and anticipates the fulfillment of God’s kingdom, when every voice will acknowledge His rule. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and scope, offering words that are easy to sing yet rich in meaning. “Let All the World in Every Corner Sing” continues to inspire congregations to lift their voices with joy, confidence, and unity, joining heaven and earth in declaring the greatness of God.