For the Beauty of the Earth

Jonathan Anderson • July 13, 2025

“For the Beauty of the Earth” is a hymn that opens your eyes to the blessings all around. It’s full of thankfulness — not just for heaven or salvation, but for the beauty of creation, friendship, family, and simple daily gifts. It’s a hymn of praise that feels quiet and cheerful, like a walk in nature with a heart full of worship.

The Story Behind the Hymn

The lyrics were written in 1864 by Folliott S. Pierpoint, a 29-year-old schoolteacher from Bath, England. Inspired by the rolling hills and natural beauty surrounding him, Pierpoint wrote the poem as a way of giving thanks — not just for the scenery, but for every good gift from God.


It was originally intended as a communion hymn, but over time, its verses of gratitude made it a favorite for general worship, Thanksgiving services, and school ceremonies. The melody most often used today, Dix, was composed by Conrad Kocher and fits the lyrics with a gentle, uplifting flow.


What Makes It Powerful

What makes this hymn stand out is its pure thankfulness. It doesn’t dwell on suffering or struggle — it focuses on the beauty and goodness of God’s gifts. Every verse is a list of reasons to give thanks: the earth, the skies, the joy of human love, the church, and most of all, the love of Christ.


A verse that reflects this grateful heart is James 1:17 (NIV):

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”

This hymn gently reminds us to stop, notice, and thank the Giver — not just for eternal things, but for the everyday beauty He has placed in our lives.


My Violin Cover

When I arranged “For the Beauty of the Earth” for violin, I wanted to reflect its light, thankful tone. I kept the playing smooth and melodic, letting each phrase feel peaceful — like a hymn of quiet joy.



With Violin Hymns, I try to let the feeling of each song lead the way. This one didn’t need drama — it needed warmth and gratitude. The melody itself feels like praise rising gently from the heart.


Listen and Reflect

The video is below. As you listen, think of the blessings in your own life — the ones we sometimes overlook. Let this hymn be your prayer of thanks, and remember the Giver behind every gift: Lord of all, to Thee we raise, this our hymn of grateful praise.

Lyrics


For the joy of human love,

Brother, sister, parent, child,

Friends on earth and friends above,

For all gentle thoughts and mild—


Lord of all, to Thee we raise

This our hymn of grateful praise.


For Thy Church that evermore

Lifteth holy hands above,

Offering up on every shore

Her pure sacrifice of love—


Lord of all, to Thee we raise

This our hymn of grateful praise.


For Thyself, best Gift Divine,

To our race so freely giv’n,

For that great, great love of Thine,

Peace on earth and joy in heav’n—


Lord of all, to Thee we raise

This our hymn of grateful praise.

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