Morning Has Broken Lyrics: A Comprehensive Exploration Of The Song's Words And Meaning

Dorothea Stiedemann 17 Jun 2025

Words to the song Morning Has Broken carry profound meaning and evoke deep emotions. This hymn, celebrated globally, has touched countless lives with its poetic verses and spiritual essence. As we delve into its lyrics, we'll uncover the beauty and significance behind each word.

Morning Has Broken is not just a song; it's a hymn that transcends time and culture. Originally written by Eleanor Farjeon in 1931, this piece has become an anthem of hope and renewal for many. Its simple yet powerful words resonate with listeners across generations.

This article explores every aspect of the song's lyrics, their origins, and their impact on global culture. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to this hymn, this deep dive aims to enrich your understanding and appreciation of Morning Has Broken.

History of Morning Has Broken
The Lyrics of Morning Has Broken
Understanding the Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The Musical Elements of Morning Has Broken
Cultural Influence and Popularity
Variations and Cover Versions
Spiritual Significance of the Song
About Eleanor Farjeon: The Lyricist
Comparing Morning Has Broken with Other Hymns
Conclusion and Call to Action

History of Morning Has Broken

Morning Has Broken's origins trace back to the early 20th century. Written by Eleanor Farjeon in 1931, the hymn was originally composed for a children's religious program. Its melody is based on a traditional Gaelic tune called "Bunessan," adding an authentic charm to its structure.

The hymn gained widespread recognition after being featured in the 1972 album "Morning Has Broken" by Cat Stevens. His rendition introduced the song to a broader audience, making it a staple in both religious and secular settings.

Key Historical Milestones

1931: Written by Eleanor Farjeon for a children's program.
1972: Popularized by Cat Stevens' rendition.
1980s: Adopted by various churches and spiritual groups worldwide.

This rich history underscores the song's enduring appeal and adaptability across different contexts and audiences.

The Lyrics of Morning Has Broken

Here are the complete lyrics of Morning Has Broken:

Morning has broken, like the first morning
Blackbird has spoken, like the first bird
Praise for the singing, praise for the morning
Praise for them springing fresh from the Word

Sweet is the rain that falls in the spring
Sweet is the song of the singing bird
Praise for the sweet rain, praise for the singing
Praise for them fresh and clear from the Word

Sweet is the breast of the virgin mother
Sweet is the face of the newborn child
Praise for the sweetness, praise for the morning
Praise for them fresh and clear from the Word

These verses encapsulate the hymn's central themes of renewal, praise, and spiritual awakening.

Understanding the Meaning Behind the Lyrics

The words to the song Morning Has Broken are rich with symbolic imagery. Each verse reflects themes of creation, renewal, and gratitude. Let's break down the key elements:

Themes of Renewal and Creation

Comparison of the morning to the "first morning" evokes the idea of a fresh start.
Reference to the blackbird's song highlights the beauty of nature and its connection to divine creation.
Repetition of "praise" emphasizes gratitude and acknowledgment of the divine presence.

Through these verses, the hymn encourages listeners to embrace each day with wonder and appreciation.

The Musical Elements of Morning Has Broken

Musically, Morning Has Broken is a masterpiece of simplicity and elegance. Its melody, derived from the Gaelic tune "Bunessan," contributes to its timeless appeal. Here are some key musical aspects:

Key Musical Features

Melody: Based on the traditional Gaelic tune, adding authenticity and depth.
Rhythm: Simple yet engaging, making it accessible for congregational singing.
Harmony: Often performed with rich harmonies, enhancing its emotional impact.

The combination of these elements creates a sound that resonates deeply with listeners, regardless of their musical background.

Cultural Influence and Popularity

Morning Has Broken's influence extends far beyond its original religious context. It has become a symbol of peace, hope, and renewal in various cultures. The hymn's universal themes make it relatable to people from all walks of life.

Global Adoption

Used in Christian worship services worldwide.
Included in secular celebrations, such as weddings and memorials.
Featured in popular media, enhancing its visibility and appeal.

This widespread adoption highlights the song's ability to transcend cultural and religious boundaries, touching hearts globally.

Variations and Cover Versions

Over the years, Morning Has Broken has inspired numerous cover versions and adaptations. Artists from various genres have interpreted the hymn in unique ways, maintaining its essence while adding their personal touch.

Notable Cover Versions

Cat Stevens (1972): Popularized the hymn with his iconic rendition.
Judy Collins: Offered a folk-inspired version, emphasizing the song's lyrical beauty.
Elvis Presley: Performed a soulful interpretation, highlighting the hymn's emotional depth.

These variations demonstrate the hymn's versatility and adaptability across musical styles and eras.

Spiritual Significance of the Song

For many, Morning Has Broken holds deep spiritual significance. Its lyrics serve as a reminder of the divine presence in everyday life. The hymn encourages believers to find joy and gratitude in the simplest moments.

Spiritual Reflections

Connection to creation: The hymn highlights the beauty of nature as a reflection of divine creativity.
Gratitude and praise: Emphasizes the importance of expressing gratitude for life's blessings.
Renewal and hope: Inspires listeners to embrace each day with hope and optimism.

Through these reflections, the hymn fosters a deeper spiritual connection and encourages personal growth.

About Eleanor Farjeon: The Lyricist

Eleanor Farjeon, the creator of Morning Has Broken's lyrics, was a renowned English writer and poet. Born in 1881, she contributed significantly to children's literature and hymnody. Below is a summary of her life and achievements:

Full Name	Eleanor Farjeon
Birth Date	13 February 1881
Death Date	5 April 1965
Occupation	Writer, Poet, Hymnographer
Notable Works	Elves and the Shoemaker, Morning Has Broken

Farjeon's contributions to literature and hymnody have left a lasting legacy, with Morning Has Broken standing as one of her most enduring creations.

Comparing Morning Has Broken with Other Hymns

While Morning Has Broken shares similarities with other hymns, it stands out in several ways. Its unique blend of poetic verses and spiritual themes sets it apart from traditional hymns. Below is a comparison with two well-known hymns:

Hymn Comparison

Hymn	Theme	Structure	Popularity
Morning Has Broken	Renewal, Gratitude	Simple verses with poetic imagery	Global recognition
Ave Maria	Devotion, Praise	Classical structure, Latin text	Widely used in Catholic settings
Amazing Grace	Redemption, Faith	Strophic form with repetitive verses	Beloved in Protestant traditions

This comparison highlights Morning Has Broken's distinctive qualities and its place among classic hymns.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The words to the song Morning Has Broken encapsulate the beauty of creation, renewal, and gratitude. Through its poetic verses and spiritual depth, the hymn continues to inspire and uplift listeners worldwide. Whether sung in a church service or enjoyed as a piece of music, Morning Has Broken remains a timeless treasure.

We invite you to share your thoughts and reflections on this hymn in the comments section below. Additionally, explore other articles on our site to deepen your understanding of music, spirituality, and culture. Together, let's celebrate the power of words and music to enrich our lives.

Morning Has Broken Sheet Music Direct

MORNING HAS BROKEN Cat Stevens

Morning Has Broken Morning Has Broken Poem by Eleanor Farjeon

Vacay Vibes