Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow Lyrics (2026)

Have you ever stood in church, felt the music swell, and joined voices with hundreds of others singing “Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow Lyrics“? This simple 25-word hymn has united Christians across denominations for over 350 years. Whether you grew up singing this doxology every Sunday or you’re discovering it for the first time, you’re connecting with a tradition that spans centuries and continents.

The praise God from whom all blessings flow lyrics represent more than just words on a page. They embody the essence of Christian gratitude and Trinitarian worship. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find the complete lyrics, fascinating historical background, musical details, chord progressions, and everything you need to understand and perform this timeless hymn in 2026.

Complete Lyrics: All Verses and Variations

The Common Doxology (Original 1674 Version)

Verse 1 – The Standard Doxology

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

This single verse is what most people know as “the Doxology.” Thomas Ken wrote it as the final stanza for three longer hymns, and it has become the most recognized doxology in Protestant Christianity.

Extended Verses from Thomas Ken’s Original Hymns

Verse 2 – From the Morning Hymn

Awake, my soul, and with the sun
Thy daily stage of duty run;
Shake off dull sloth, and joyful rise
To pay thy morning sacrifice.

Verse 3 – Additional Praise

From all that dwell below the skies,
Let the Creator’s praise arise!
Let the Redeemer’s name be sung,
Through every land by every tongue.

Verse 4 – Eternal Praise

Eternal are Thy mercies, Lord;
And truth eternal is Thy word;
Thy praise shall sound from shore to shore,
Till suns shall rise and set no more.

Modern Gender-Inclusive Version (2020s Adaptation)

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Creator, Christ, and Holy Ghost.

Some contemporary congregations use “Creator, Christ” instead of “Father, Son” to make the language more inclusive while maintaining the Trinitarian structure.

Alternative Version with Expanded Trinity

Praise God the Father who’s the source;
Praise God the Son who is the course;
Praise God the Spirit who’s the flow;
Praise God, our portion here below!

This variation emphasizes the distinct roles of each person of the Trinity while maintaining the praise structure.

Historical Background: The Story Behind the Doxology

Thomas Ken: The Bishop Who Changed Worship Forever

Thomas Ken was born in 1637 in Little Berkhamstead, Hertfordshire, England. After his parents died when he was young, he was raised by his brother-in-law, Izaak Walton, the famous author of “The Compleat Angler.” This connection to literature likely influenced Ken’s poetic abilities.

Ken studied at Winchester College and later at New College, Oxford. He was ordained in the Church of England and became a fellow of Winchester College in 1666. His dedication to pastoral care and spiritual discipline earned him respect throughout the Anglican community.

The 1674 Origin: A Manual for Students

In 1674, while serving at Winchester College, Thomas Ken wrote “A Manual of Prayers for the Use of the Scholars of Winchester College.” This wasn’t just another prayer book—it was a comprehensive guide to help students develop a disciplined spiritual life.

Ken believed that students needed structure in their devotional practices. He composed three hymns specifically for this manual:

1. Morning Hymn – “Awake, my soul, and with the sun”
2. Evening Hymn – “Glory to Thee, my God, this night”
3. Midnight Hymn – For those keeping late vigils

Each of these hymns ended with the same doxological verse: “Praise God, from whom all blessings flow.” Ken intended this as a universal expression of gratitude that could conclude any prayer or hymn.

Evolution Through the Centuries

1674 – First written in manuscript form for Winchester students
1694 – Published in pamphlet form by Ken himself
1695 – Included in the official edition of the Manual of Prayers
1709 – Revised edition changed “angelick” to “heavenly” host
1551 – The OLD HUNDREDTH tune was composed (123 years before Ken’s words!)
1560 – Tune paired with Psalm 100 in Anglo-Genevan Psalter
1700s – Doxology begins appearing in hymnals independently
1800s – Becomes standard in Protestant worship across denominations
2000s – Gender-inclusive adaptations emerge

Ken’s Later Life and Legacy

In 1685, Thomas Ken was appointed Bishop of Bath and Wells. His principled stand against King James II’s Declaration of Indulgence in 1687 led to his imprisonment in the Tower of London along with six other bishops. They were later acquitted, becoming known as the “Seven Bishops.”

Ken refused to swear allegiance to William and Mary after the Glorious Revolution of 1688, making him a “nonjuring” bishop. He lived the rest of his life in quiet retirement, dying in 1711 at age 73. Despite his political troubles, his hymns lived on, touching millions of lives for centuries.

Musical Information: Understanding the OLD HUNDREDTH

The Tune That Changed Everything

When you sing “Praise God from whom all blessings flow,” you’re singing to a tune called OLD HUNDREDTH (also written as Old 100th). This melody is even older than Thomas Ken’s words—it was composed in 1551 for the Genevan Psalter.

Louis Bourgeois: The Composer

Louis Bourgeois (c. 1510-1561) was a French composer who worked in Geneva during the Protestant Reformation. He edited the Genevan Psalter of 1551, where the OLD HUNDREDTH tune first appeared. Originally, this melody was set to Psalm 134 in the Genevan tradition.

The tune got its English name “OLD HUNDREDTH” when it was paired with William Kethe’s version of Psalm 100 (“All People That on Earth Do Dwell”) in the Anglo-Genevan Psalter of 1560. The “Old” was added to distinguish it from a newer tune also used for Psalm 100.

Alternative Names for the Tune

• OLD HUNDREDTH – Most common English name
• OLD 100th – Shortened version
• SAVOY – Used in some hymnals
• GENEVAN 134 – Refers to its original psalm number

Musical Characteristics

Meter: L.M. (Long Meter) – 8.8.8.8 syllable pattern
Key: Usually G Major or D Major
Time Signature: 4/4 (Common time)
Tempo: Moderate, dignified (♩ = 80-100)
Style: Isorhythmic (equal note values) in modern versions

The tune has a majestic, processional quality that makes it perfect for congregational singing. Its simple melodic structure allows even non-musicians to sing confidently.

Rhythm Variations: Original vs. Modern

Original Genevan Version (1551):

• Had rhythmic variety with some longer notes
• First chord and last three chords of each phrase were half notes
• Created a more flowing, nuanced feel

Modern Isorhythmic Version (Most Common Today):

• All notes equal length (quarter notes)
• Simpler for congregations to sing
• More straightforward, march-like quality

Some churches preserve the original rhythm when singing “All People That on Earth Do Dwell” but use the isorhythmic version for the doxology.

Chord Progressions for Musicians

Basic Chords in G Major:

G         D        G      C    D
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
G         D        Em     C    D
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
G    D    Em       C      G    D
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
G         D        C      D    G
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

Alternative Chords in D Major:

D         A        D      G    A
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
D         A        Bm     G    A
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
D    A    Bm       G      D    A
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
D         A        G      A    D
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

Advanced Arrangement (with passing chords):

G    G/B  D/F#     G      C    D
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
G    D/F# Em  Em/D  C     D7
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
G    D    Em  Em/D  C     G/B  D
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
G    G/B  C   Am7   D7    G
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

Tips for Accompanists

• Keep tempo steady and dignified
• Don’t rush between phrases
• Use full organ registration for festive occasions
• Piano can work with sustained chords
• Guitar sounds best fingerpicked or with arpeggios
• Allow congregation to breathe between lines

Worship Usage Guide: When and How to Sing

Traditional Liturgical Placement

The doxology has several traditional places in Christian worship services:

1. Offertory Response (Most Common)
After the collection of tithes and offerings, congregations sing this as an act of thanksgiving. This connects our material gifts with spiritual gratitude, acknowledging that all blessings—including our ability to give—come from God.

2. Call to Worship
Some churches begin their services with the doxology, setting a tone of praise and acknowledging God’s presence.

3. Benediction
Ending the service with “Praise God from whom all blessings flow” sends people out with hearts full of gratitude.

4. After Communion
Following the Lord’s Supper, this hymn expresses thanks for God’s ultimate gift in Christ.

5. Baptism or Confirmation Services
Celebrating new believers or confirming faith with this universal statement of praise.

Denominational Practices Across Christianity

Presbyterian Churches

The Presbyterian Church (USA) has sung this doxology for generations. It appears in every edition of their hymnal and is typically sung after the offering. Many Presbyterian churches sing it every single Sunday, making it a cherished tradition.

Methodist Tradition

United Methodists include the doxology in their hymnal and often use it as an offertory response. John Wesley, Methodism’s founder, knew Thomas Ken personally and admired his hymns.

Baptist Congregations

Baptist churches frequently use the doxology, though practices vary by congregation. Southern Baptist hymnals have included it since the early 1900s.

Anglican/Episcopal Usage

As Thomas Ken was an Anglican bishop, his doxology holds special significance in Episcopal churches. It’s often used alongside the Gloria Patri (Glory be to the Father).

Catholic Adoption

While less common historically, many Catholic parishes now include this Protestant hymn in their worship, especially in ecumenical settings.

Pentecostal and Contemporary Churches

Modern worship congregations sometimes incorporate the doxology as a bridge between contemporary songs and traditional elements.

Modern Applications in 2026

Hybrid Worship Services
With many churches streaming online, the doxology works well for both in-person and virtual congregants singing together.

Contemporary Arrangements
Modern worship bands are creating updated arrangements with drums, electric guitars, and full production while maintaining the classic melody.

Multilingual Worship
Churches are translating the doxology into Spanish, Korean, Mandarin, and other languages for diverse congregations.

Wedding Ceremonies
Couples often include this hymn to acknowledge God as the source of their love and commitment.

Funeral Services
The doxology provides comfort and affirmation of eternal praise, even in grief.

Small Group Gatherings
Home groups and Bible studies use it to open or close meetings with unified worship.

Theological Significance: Why These Words Matter

The Trinitarian Structure

The genius of Thomas Ken’s doxology lies in its carefully constructed Trinitarian theology packed into just four lines:

Line 1: “Praise God, from whom all blessings flow”
This establishes God as the ultimate source (the Father). Every good thing in our lives originates with Him. Theologically, this reflects God’s aseity—His self-existence and independence. He doesn’t need us, yet He chooses to bless us abundantly.

Line 2: “Praise Him, all creatures here below”
This calls all of creation to worship. It echoes Psalm 148 and reflects the biblical vision that every living thing exists to glorify God. The phrase “here below” connects earthly creation with the heavenly realm mentioned next.

Line 3: “Praise Him above, ye heavenly host”
Now the focus shifts upward to angels and heavenly beings. This creates a complete picture: all creation, both earthly and celestial, united in worship. The “heavenly host” refers to angels mentioned throughout Scripture.

Line 4: “Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost”
The climax explicitly names the Trinity. Father (source), Son (redeemer), and Holy Ghost/Spirit (sustainer) are each worthy of equal praise. This line is profoundly theological, affirming the Christian doctrine of the Triune God.

Biblical Connections and Foundations

The doxology connects to numerous Scripture passages:

• Psalm 148:1-2 – “Praise the Lord from the heavens; praise him in the heights above. Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his heavenly hosts.”
• Psalm 150:6 – “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!”
• Ephesians 1:3 – “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”
• James 1:17 – “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.”
• Revelation 5:13 – “Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying: ‘To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!'”

The Doxological Purpose

A doxology is a short hymn of praise to God, often recited or sung at the end of a service or prayer. The word comes from the Greek “doxa” (glory) and “logos” (word). Essentially, it means “words of glory.”

The Christian church has used doxologies since ancient times:

Lesser Doxology (Gloria Patri):
“Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.”

Greater Doxology (Gloria in Excelsis Deo):
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

Thomas Ken’s doxology is sometimes called the “Common Doxology” because it became so universally used in Protestant worship. Its brevity makes it easy to memorize, while its theological depth makes it worthy of lifelong meditation.

Unity Across Denominational Lines

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of this doxology is its ecumenical power. In an age of Christian division, “Praise God from whom all blessings flow” unites believers across denominational boundaries:

• Calvinist and Arminian – Both affirm God as the source of blessings
• High Church and Low Church – From formal liturgy to casual worship
• Traditional and Contemporary – Works with organ or guitar
• Catholic and Protestant – Increasingly shared in ecumenical services

This four-line hymn reminds us that our unity in Christ transcends our theological differences.

Different Versions and Translations Worldwide

English-Speaking Variations

Traditional British English: Some UK congregations maintain archaic spellings like “angelick host” from Ken’s 1674 original.

American Standard: Most US hymnals use the modern “heavenly host” spelling from the 1709 edition.

Spanish Translations

Alabemos a Dios (Common Version):

Alabemos a Dios, fuente de bendición;
Alábenle en la tierra con grata devoción;
Alábenle los ángeles con su celestial voz;
Al Padre, al Hijo, al Santo Espíritu, loor.

Alternative Translation:

Alaben a Dios, de quien fluyen bendiciones;
Alábenle, criaturas todas;
Alábenle arriba, huestes celestiales;
Alabado sea el Padre, el Hijo y el Espíritu Santo.

Other Languages

German (Lobe den Herren):
While Germany has its own traditional doxologies, some bilingual congregations translate Ken’s words.

Korean (찬양하라):
Growing Korean-American churches often sing in both languages during services.

Mandarin Chinese (讚美上帝):
Chinese churches have adapted the doxology for their worship context.

Comparing the Doxology with Other Classic Hymns

Feature	Praise God From Whom	Gloria Patri	All People That on Earth
Author	Thomas Ken (1674)	Traditional (4th century)	William Kethe (1561)
Tune	OLD HUNDREDTH	Various (GLORIA PATRI common)	OLD HUNDREDTH
Length	4 lines	3 lines	4+ verses
Theological Focus	Trinity & Creation	Trinity & Eternity	God’s Sovereignty
Usage	Offertory, Benediction	After Psalms, Gloria	Opening Hymn
Meter	L.M. (8.8.8.8)	Irregular	L.M. (8.8.8.8)
Difficulty	Easy	Easy	Easy
Frequency	Weekly in many churches	Weekly in liturgical churches	Monthly/Occasional

Sheet Music and Musical Resources

Where to Find Free Sheet Music

Public Domain Sources (Free):

• Hymnary.org – Extensive collection with downloadable PDFs
• CPDL (Choral Public Domain Library) – Multiple arrangements
• IMSLP (International Music Score Library Project) – Historical editions
• CyberHymnal – Simple lead sheets and MIDI files

Key Signatures Available:

• G Major (most common for congregational singing)
• D Major (good for higher voices)
• F Major (lower for deeper voices)
• C Major (easiest for beginners on piano)

Arrangements for Different Settings

Organ:

• Simple hymn setting (beginner)
• Four-part harmony (intermediate)
• Elaborate settings with interludes (advanced)

Piano:

• Basic chord accompaniment
• Arpeggiated arrangements
• Contemporary praise style

Guitar:

• Open chord version (G, C, D)
• Capo arrangements for easier fingering
• Fingerstyle arrangements

Choir:

• SATB (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) four-part
• Two-part (Treble and Bass)
• Descant arrangements for special occasions

Contemporary Band:

• Full arrangement with drums, bass, keys, guitar
• Simplified chord charts for worship teams

Audio Resources and Recordings

Traditional Recordings:

• Mormon Tabernacle Choir – Majestic full choir version
• King’s College Choir, Cambridge – Classic Anglican style
• Various church organ recordings – For learning proper tempo

Contemporary Versions:

• Modern worship bands on Spotify and Apple Music
• YouTube tutorials for learning parts
• Instrumental backing tracks for practice

Learning Tools:

• Slow-tempo practice recordings
• Individual voice part recordings (SATB)
• Pronunciation guides for proper English diction

Teaching the Doxology to Children and New Believers

Why Children Should Learn This Hymn

Teaching “Praise God from whom all blessings flow” to children connects them with centuries of Christian tradition. It’s short enough for young minds to memorize easily, yet theologically rich enough to grow with them throughout life.

Age-Appropriate Teaching Methods

Ages 3-5 (Preschool):

• Use hand motions: Point up for “God,” wave arms for “all creatures,” reach high for “heavenly host”
• Sing slowly with exaggerated expression
• Focus on “thank you” concept rather than theology

Ages 6-8 (Elementary):

• Explain what “doxology” means (words of praise)
• Discuss each line simply: “Who gives us good things? God does!”
• Connect to their favorite Bible stories about God’s blessings

Ages 9-12 (Pre-teen):

• Introduce Thomas Ken’s story
• Explain Trinity concept at age-appropriate level
• Teach the tune on instruments if they’re musical

Teenagers:

• Discuss deeper theological meaning
• Explore different versions and arrangements
• Connect to contemporary worship songs with similar themes

Simple Explanations for New Christians

“This short hymn is like a ‘thank you note’ to God. We’re saying that everything good in our lives comes from Him, and we’re inviting everyone—people on earth and angels in heaven—to praise God together. The last line reminds us that God is three persons in one: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.”

Common Questions About the Doxology

Why Do We Call It a “Doxology”?

The word “doxology” comes from two Greek words: “doxa” (glory) and “logia” (saying). It literally means “words of glory” or “glory-words.” Early Christians used short prayers of praise called doxologies at the end of psalms and prayers.

Is It Okay to Change “Father, Son, and Holy Ghost” to More Modern Language?

This is a matter of denominational and personal preference. Some churches maintain traditional language to preserve the hymn’s historical integrity and poetic rhythm. Others update to “Holy Spirit” or use inclusive language adaptations. Both approaches honor God when done respectfully.

Why Does It Say “Holy Ghost” Instead of “Holy Spirit”?

In 1674, “Ghost” was the common English word for “Spirit.” It comes from the Old English “gast” and German “Geist,” both meaning “spirit.” The King James Bible (1611) consistently uses “Holy Ghost.” Modern translations prefer “Holy Spirit,” but hymns often preserve historical language.

Can This Be Sung Outside of Church?

Absolutely! Many families sing the doxology:

• Before meals as a blessing
• At bedtime as part of evening prayers
• During family devotions
• At celebrations and milestones

It’s a beautiful way to acknowledge God’s blessings in daily life.

What If My Church Uses a Different Doxology?

Many churches use multiple doxologies. The Gloria Patri (“Glory be to the Father”) is equally ancient and valid. Some congregations rotate between different doxologies seasonally. All authentic expressions of praise to the Triune God are appropriate.

Historical Timeline: From 1674 to 2026

Year	Event
1637	Thomas Ken born in Little Berkhamstead, England
1666	Ken becomes fellow of Winchester College
1674	Ken writes Manual of Prayers with three hymns ending in the doxology
1685	Ken appointed Bishop of Bath and Wells
1687	Imprisoned for refusing King James II’s declaration
1694	Doxology published in pamphlet form
1695	Included in official Manual of Prayers edition
1709	Revised edition changes “angelick” to “heavenly”
1711	Thomas Ken dies at age 73
1800s	Doxology becomes standard in Protestant hymnals worldwide
1900s	Used universally across denominations
1950s-60s	Civil rights movement churches sing it for unity
1990s-2000s	Contemporary worship incorporates traditional elements
2020s	Gender-inclusive versions emerge in progressive churches
2026	Continues as one of Christianity’s most beloved expressions of praise

Creating Your Own Arrangement in 2026

Digital Tools for Musicians

Modern technology makes it easier than ever to create fresh arrangements:

Music Notation Software:

• MuseScore (free) – Full-featured notation program
• Finale or Sibelius (professional) – Industry standard
• Noteflight (online) – Cloud-based collaboration

Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs):

• GarageBand (Mac/iOS, free) – User-friendly
• Ableton Live – Great for electronic elements
• Logic Pro or Pro Tools – Professional recording

Virtual Instruments:

• Pipe organ samples for traditional sound
• Modern synths for contemporary worship
• String libraries for orchestral arrangements

Style Fusion Ideas

Gospel Jazz Version: Swing the rhythm, add seventh chords, include organ fills and call-and-response sections.

Celtic Arrangement: Use penny whistle, bodhran drum, and Celtic harp for a folk feeling.

Classical Choral: Bach-style four-part counterpoint with sophisticated harmonies.

Modern Worship Pop: Steady driving beat, electric guitars, building dynamics from quiet to powerful chorus.

Acoustic Indie: Fingerpicked guitar, cajon percussion, intimate vocals with harmonies.

Legal Considerations

Good News: The OLD HUNDREDTH tune and Thomas Ken’s original words are in the public domain worldwide. You can:

• Arrange freely without permission
• Record and distribute
• Use in commercial projects
• Modify words or music

Exceptions: Some modern arrangements or contemporary versions may still be copyrighted. Always check the copyright status of specific arrangements you didn’t create yourself.

Impact Through the Centuries: Stories of the Doxology

Civil War Reunification (1860s)

After the American Civil War, both Union and Confederate veterans reported singing “Praise God from whom all blessings flow” at reunification ceremonies. This shared hymn became a symbol of Christian unity transcending political division.

Welsh Revival (1904-1905)

During the Welsh Revival, Christians sang the doxology in both Welsh and English, marking the close of prayer meetings where thousands were converted. The hymn’s simplicity made it perfect for multilingual gatherings.

World War II Prison Camps (1940s)

Prisoners of war from various Allied nations discovered they all knew this doxology, singing it together in camps across Europe and Asia. It provided comfort and maintained hope in humanity’s darkest hour.

Civil Rights Movement (1960s)

African American churches that sang “Praise God from whom all blessings flow” weekly passed this tradition to the civil rights movement. Freedom marchers sang it alongside spirituals, affirming God’s sovereignty over injustice.

Berlin Wall Fall (1989)

Christians on both sides of the newly opened Berlin Wall sang this hymn together, celebrating God’s providence in reunification. East and West Germans united in worship through familiar words.

Post-9/11 America (2001)

In the weeks following the September 11 attacks, American churches of all denominations filled with worshipers singing the doxology, seeking comfort in God’s enduring presence during national trauma.

COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2021)

When churches closed for in-person worship, millions sang “Praise God from whom all blessings flow” in virtual services, maintaining connection through shared tradition despite physical separation.

Practical Tips for Worship Leaders

Introducing the Doxology to Your Congregation

If your church doesn’t regularly sing this hymn, here’s how to introduce it effectively:

Week 1: Plant the Seed Mention it in announcements: “Next week we’re introducing a classic hymn that Christians have sung for 350 years.”

Week 2: First Singing

• Print lyrics in bulletin or project on screen
• Have worship team sing it once through first
• Invite congregation to join the second time
• Keep tempo slow and steady

Week 3: Teach the History Share a brief version of Thomas Ken’s story. People connect with hymns when they know the “why” behind them.

Week 4: Make It Regular Incorporate it into a consistent spot (offering, benediction) so people begin to expect and anticipate it.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Rushing the Tempo This is a dignified hymn. Resist the urge to speed up. Aim for ♩ = 80-100 BPM.

2. Poor Sound Balance Make sure the congregation can hear themselves. Don’t overpower them with instruments or sound system.

3. Skipping Breaths Build in natural breath points between lines. This isn’t a race.

4. Inadequate Introduction Give a full 2-bar introduction so people know when to start singing.

5. Changing Keys Too Often Pick a key that works for your congregation’s range and stick with it. Consistency helps memorization.

Making It Fresh Without Losing Tradition

Seasonal Variations:

• Easter: Add trumpet fanfare
• Christmas: Include bells or chimes
• Pentecost: Emphasize “Holy Spirit” line with dynamic swell
• Ordinary Sundays: Keep it simple and familiar

Instrumental Variations: Occasionally feature different instruments:

• Solo violin leading
• Piano-only version
• A cappella congregational singing
• Children’s choir with adult congregation

Dynamic Contrast:

• Verse soft, building to forte on final line
• Start strong, end pianissimo for contemplative close
• Crescendo throughout for triumphant finale

Related Hymns and Doxologies to Explore

Hymns by Thomas Ken

If you appreciate “Praise God from whom all blessings flow,” explore Ken’s other works:

“Awake, My Soul, and With the Sun” (Morning Hymn) The full morning hymn from which the doxology comes. It’s a beautiful call to daily devotion.

“Glory to Thee, My God, This Night” (Evening Hymn) Also known as “All Praise to Thee, My God, This Night” or the “Evening Hymn.” Perfect for evening services or bedtime.

Other Classic Doxologies

Gloria Patri (Lesser Doxology) “Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.”

Gloria in Excelsis Deo (Greater Doxology) “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

Hymns with Similar Themes

“All Creatures of Our God and King” by Francis of Assisi Another hymn celebrating all creation praising God. Often uses the doxology as a final verse.

“All People That on Earth Do Dwell” by William Kethe Uses the same OLD HUNDREDTH tune. Based on Psalm 100.

“Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” by Robert Robinson Similar theme of acknowledging God as the source of all blessings.

“Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty” by Reginald Heber Another great Trinitarian hymn of praise.

“Now Thank We All Our God” by Martin Rinkart Classic thanksgiving hymn that pairs well with the doxology.

Advanced Musical Analysis for Scholars

Melodic Structure and Range

The OLD HUNDREDTH tune spans exactly one octave:

• Lowest note: G (or tonic in whatever key)
• Highest note: G (octave above)
• Range: One octave (perfect for congregational singing)

The melody primarily uses stepwise motion with occasional leaps:

• Line 1: Rises from tonic to dominant, returns
• Line 2: Similar contour, creating parallelism
• Line 3: Reaches highest point (climax)
• Line 4: Descends to resolve on tonic

This arch-shaped melodic contour (rising, climaxing, resolving) is psychologically satisfying and easy to remember.

Harmonic Analysis

Basic harmonization follows classical voice-leading principles:

Phrase 1: I – V – I – IV – V (establishes key)
Phrase 2: I – V – vi – IV – V (similar with minor chord color