Brother sun, sister moon
Sister stars shine day and night
See them shine beautiful, radiant
Splendor of light
Chorus:
Brother sun and sister moon
Heaven and earth proclaim God's glory
All praise be Yours, Most High God
Brother wind, brother air
Fair and storm, all weather's moods
Colored flowers and healing herbs
Heavenly grace flows through you
(REPEAT CHORUS)
So rejoice
For the heavens and earth
Are full of God's glory
So rejoice
For the heavens and earth
Are full of God's glory
Brother sun and sister moon
Brother Sun And Sister Moon Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"Brother Sun and Sister Moon" by John Michael Talbot is a song that beautifully captures the essence of seeing God in all of creation. It is inspired by the Canticle of the Sun, a song composed by Saint Francis of Assisi, who is known for his profound love of nature as a manifestation of God's splendor. Through its lyrics, the song invites listeners to a deeper appreciation and reverence for nature, seeing it as a mirror reflecting the divine.
The opening lines, "Brother sun, sister moon / Sister stars shine day and night," immediately establish a familial relationship with elements of nature, personifying them as siblings. This imagery draws from the idea that all of creation is interconnected and part of a larger family under God. It evokes a sense of unity and harmony among all living things.
As the song progresses with references to "brother wind, brother air" and "colored flowers and healing herbs," it highlights the diversity and richness of the natural world. This diversity is not just for aesthetic appreciation but serves a purpose in the grand design of creation, providing sustenance, healing, and beauty. The mention of "fair and storm, all weather's moods" acknowledges the dynamic and sometimes unpredictable aspects of nature, yet it sees these too as expressions of God's will and presence.
The chorus, "Heaven and earth proclaim God's glory," is a direct echo of Psalm 19:1, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands." This verse, along with the song, emphasizes that the natural world is a testament to God's majesty and creativity. By observing and reflecting on nature, one can find spiritual truths and feel closer to the divine.
The song's invitation to "rejoice" in the glory of heaven and earth is reminiscent of Philippians 4:4, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" This call to rejoice is not just in moments of beauty and calm but in all circumstances, recognizing God's hand at work in the world.
"Brother Sun and Sister Moon" serves as a spiritual meditation, urging listeners to see beyond the surface of the natural world and to discern the divine messages encoded within it. It's a call to live in harmony with nature, to respect and cherish it as a gift from God. The song is a reminder that in every sunrise, in every gust of wind, and in every blooming flower, there lies an opportunity to connect with God and to be reminded of His love and grace.
In essence, John Michael Talbot's song is a modern-day psalm, celebrating the Creator through the beauty of creation. It challenges listeners to adopt a Franciscan view of the world, where everything in nature is a brother or sister with whom we share a divine inheritance.
