Many of the hymns in modern hymnals were first written in Europe hundreds of years ago. The hymns usually have a predictable, structured cadence and magnificent language, denoting the supremacy of God.

Traditional American Spirituals take a markedly different approach to praising God through music. American Spirituals, or Gospel music, originated in the South and provided entertainment, comfort and spiritual strength to black slaves. Many of the lyrics functioned as a means of communication between slaves, as well. The lyrics often contained covert messages veiled in religious meaning. Slave owners didn’t understand the messages, but the slaves certainly did.

Gospel music has its roots in both African music and traditional Anglican hymns, and often includes clapping, refrains or chants. One of the most famous American spirituals, He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands, is a traditional gospel song believed to have been penned by Obie Philpot.

He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands was first published in 1927 in Spirituals Triumphant, Old and New. The hymn quickly became a popular song, beloved for its simple message and swaying, easy tune. Folk singer, Frank Warner recorded and performed the song in the 1940s and its popularity quickly spread. Since then, it’s been featured in movies, including “Tootsie,” “Rocket Man,” and “Con-Air.” Numerous musicians, such as Tanya Tucker, Nina Simone, Randy Travis, and Bobby Bare have recorded adaptations of the song over the years.

In addition to its popular appeal, He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands remains a beloved hymn among devout Christians, as well. It’s most commonly sung in youth services by children because the lyrics are so easy to learn. The hymn’s message teaches us to put our trust in God, who knows and cares for all creatures on His great, green earth. The song has been adapted and revised many times in the last 90 years, but below are the lyrics most commonly sung today:

He's got the whole world in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got my brothers and my sisters in His hands,
He's got my brothers and my sisters in His hands,
He's got my brothers and my sisters in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got the sun and the rain in His hands,
He's got the moon and the stars in His hands,
He's got the wind and the clouds in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got the rivers and the mountains in His hands,
He's got the oceans and the seas in His hands,
He's got you and he's got me in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got everybody here in His hands,
He's got everybody there in His hands,
He's got everybody everywhere in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.