The Author
Scripture Theme: Psalm 103 (AKJV 1611)
Written1834
Henry Francis Lyte (1793–1847) was an English Anglican priest, poet, and hymn writer. Born in Scotland and educated at Trinity College, Dublin, he served as Curate in County Wexford before becoming Vicar of Lower Brixham, Devon, where he faithfully ministered for over twenty years. Although plagued by poor health for much of his life, Lyte wrote many hymns of enduring beauty, the best known being “Abide with Me.” He died in Nice, France, in 1847 while seeking a warmer climate for his failing health.
The Tune
Sir John Goss
LAUDA ANIMA was composed by Sir John Goss (1800–1880), an English organist, composer, and teacher. Goss served for many years as Organist of St. Paul’s Cathedral, London, and became one of Victorian England’s most respected church musicians. He composed the tune in 1868 specifically for Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven. Its noble and flowing melody perfectly complements the grandeur and warmth of Lyte’s text.
Background
Henry Francis Lyte wrote this hymn as a joyful paraphrase of Psalm 103, one of the Bible’s greatest psalms of praise. His purpose was to encourage Christians to remember God’s mercy, forgiveness, compassion, and everlasting love. Rather than merely translating the Psalm into verse, Lyte clothed its timeless truths in beautiful English poetry suitable for congregational worship.
The hymn first appeared in Lyte’s Spirit of the Psalms (1834), a collection of metrical versions of the Psalms intended for use in public worship.
Scriptural Foundation
The hymn is based principally upon:
“Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.”
Psalm 103:1 (AKJV 1611)
Other verses reflected throughout the hymn include:
- Psalm 103:2–5 – God’s forgiveness and healing.
- Psalm 103:8–14 – His mercy, compassion and fatherly love.
- Psalm 103:15–18 – The frailty of man and the everlasting mercy of God.
- Psalm 103:20–22 – Angels joining in the praise of God.
The closing verse echoes the Psalm’s universal call to worship, uniting heaven and earth in adoration.
Significance of the Hymn
Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven is widely regarded as one of the greatest hymns of praise in the English language. Firmly rooted in Holy Scripture, it combines rich theology with graceful poetry and has become a cherished hymn in Anglican worship throughout the world. The majestic tune LAUDA ANIMA has helped make it a favourite for parish churches, cathedrals, national services, and royal occasions. Nearly two centuries after it was written, the hymn continues to lead Christians to bless and magnify the King of Heaven with gratitude and joy.