The most common way to play “How Great Thou Art” chords on guitar is in the key of G, using simple open chords that work well for congregational singing.

Basic chords in G (beginner‑friendly)

You can play the hymn using these main chords in 4/4 time.

  • G
  • C (often written C/G, but regular C works)
  • D or D/F# (D with F# in the bass is optional)
  • Em
  • Am or Am7

A simple structure many worship leaders use:

  • Verses: G – C – G – D – G (with Em and Am sprinkled in)
  • Chorus hook (“Then sings my soul…”): G – C – G – D – G, often with D/F# as a passing chord.

Sample verse progression (key of G)

Here’s a simplified way to think about Verse 1 in chords (not lyrics, just layout). This is approximate but very playable for church:

  • Line 1: G – C – G – D – G
  • Line 2: G – C – G – D – G
  • Line 3: G – C – G – D – G
  • Line 4: G – C – G – D – G

The detailed PDFs show these same ideas with more precise placement of each chord over the syllables.

Sample chorus progression (key of G)

For the famous “Then sings my soul…” part:

  • “Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee”
    • G – C – G – D/F# – G
  • “How great Thou art, how great Thou art”
    • G – C – G – D – G

Many modern charts add Am7 for color on “How great Thou art” (e.g., G – C/G – G – Am7 – G).

Simple strumming idea

A very common worship strum in 4/4:

  • Down – down – up – up – down – up

Or, as another beginner pattern mentioned in chord guides:

  • Down, down, up, down, up, down, up.

Keep the tempo moderate and let the chords ring to match the hymn’s big, majestic feel.

Other keys and chord charts

If G is too high or low, you can:

  • Use a capo and keep G‑shapes.
  • Or grab ready‑made charts in keys like C, D, E, F from online chord PDFs and worship sites, which provide full layouts and sometimes piano‑friendly voicings.

These resources also show richer arrangements with extra chords (like diminished or extended chords) if you want a more advanced, modern worship sound.

TL;DR: For a straightforward version, learn G, C, D, Em, and Am/Am7, play verses mostly around G–C–D, and use G–C–G–D–G for the chorus “Then sings my soul…How great Thou art.”