Crown Him With Many Crowns

The Story Behind the Hymn

This hymn was first published in 1851 by Matthew Bridges, a British poet who had converted from the Church of England to Roman Catholicism. His original version had six verses focused on the kingship and divinity of Christ. A few years later, another writer, Godfrey Thring, who was Protestant, added several more verses to broaden its use across denominations.

Despite their differences, the versions were often combined in hymnals — forming one of the most theologically rich and musically regal hymns in Christian worship. The tune most associated with it, Diademata, was written by George J. Elvey, a composer known for his work in English cathedrals. With its grand chords and strong structure, the melody gives the words their full sense of triumph.

What Makes It Powerful

Each line of this hymn is filled with imagery that points to Christ’s glory — not just in heaven, but in His suffering, resurrection, and eternal reign. It moves through His roles as the Lamb upon the throne, the Lord of love, the Lord of peace, and the Lord of life.

A verse that captures the power behind this hymn is Revelation 19:12 (NIV):

His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself.

This hymn takes that vision and brings it to song. It's not only about worshiping Jesus now — it's about looking ahead to the day when every crown and every voice will be laid before Him.

My Violin Cover

When I arranged “Crown Him with Many Crowns” for violin, I leaned into its stately rhythm. It’s a hymn that naturally carries weight and dignity, and I wanted the bow strokes to reflect that — steady, firm, and clear.

With Violin Hymns, I try to let the music speak the message. For this one, the message was royal. Not distant or formal, but joyful and strong. It’s the kind of hymn that lifts your posture and your perspective.

Listen and Reflect

The video is below. As you listen, picture Christ enthroned in glory — not as a distant figure, but as the Lamb who was slain, now crowned in victory. Let each phrase remind you: He is not just a teacher or example — He is King. Crown Him with many crowns.

Lyrics

Crown Him with many crowns,

The Lamb upon the throne;

Hark! how the heav’nly anthem drowns

All music but its own.

Awake, my soul, and sing

Of Him who died for thee,

And hail Him as thy matchless King

Through all eternity.

Crown Him with many crowns,

All hail, Redeemer, King!

Thy praise shall never, never fail

Throughout eternity.

Crown Him the Lord of heav’n,

One with the Father known,

One with the Spirit through Him giv’n

From yonder glorious throne.

To Thee be endless praise,

For Thou for us hast died;

Be Thou, O Lord, through endless days

Adored and magnified.

Crown Him with many crowns,

All hail, Redeemer, King!

Thy praise shall never, never fail

Throughout eternity.

Crown Him the Lord of life,

Who triumphed o’er the grave,

And rose victorious in the strife

For those He came to save.

His glories now we sing,

Who died and rose on high,

Who died eternal life to bring

And lives that death may die.

Crown Him with many crowns,

All hail, Redeemer, King!

Thy praise shall never, never fail

Throughout eternity.

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