Nina Simone - He's Got the Whole World in His Hands Lyrics
Lyrics
Raditional
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 the fish of the sea in His hands
He's got the birds of the air in His hands
He's got the fish of the sea in His hands
He's got the whole world in His hands
He's got the gamblin' man in His hands
He's got the sinner man in His hands
He's got the gamblin' man in His hands
He's got the whole world in His hands
He's got the little bitsy baby in His hands
He's got the little bitsy baby in His hands
He's got the little bitsy baby in His hands
He's got the whole world in His hands
He's got everybody here in His hands
He's got you and me, brother, in His hands
He's got everybody here in His hands
He's got the whole world...
He's got the whole world in His hands
Video
He's got the whole world in his hands - Nina Simone
Meaning & Inspiration
Nina Simone’s rendition of "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands," featured on the 2018 compilation "Mood Indigo: The Complete Bethlehem Singles," offers a profound and timeless meditation on divine providence. While this specific compilation was released on February 9, 2018, Simone first introduced her unique interpretation of this traditional spiritual to the world much earlier, establishing it as a cornerstone of her early repertoire. The song itself is deeply rooted in African American spiritual traditions, having emerged from a history of struggle and an unshakeable faith, serving as a powerful declaration of God’s absolute sovereignty and compassionate care over all creation and humanity.
The enduring message of this piece is one of comfort, security, and the magnificent scope of divine control. The repeated assertion that "He's got the whole world in His hands" is not merely a poetic phrase; it’s a theological statement affirming God’s omnipotence and omnipresence. Scripture consistently reinforces this truth, reminding us that the Lord is the ultimate sustainer and orchestrator of all things. Colossians 1:16-17 declares that "in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible... all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." This powerful assurance, conveyed through Simone’s distinctive delivery, asserts that even amidst life's chaos, an unseen, loving hand maintains order and purpose.
As the song progresses, it elaborates on the vastness of God's dominion, moving from the cosmic to the specific. The lines referencing the "fish of the sea" and the "birds of the air" vividly paint a picture of God's meticulous attention to the natural world. This imagery directly echoes biblical passages that speak to God's care for creation, challenging any doubt about His ability to provide and sustain. Matthew 6:26 instructs us to "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" This connection assures us that if God cares for the smallest creatures, His attention to humanity is boundless, underscoring His unwavering faithfulness and provision for every living thing under His command.
Perhaps one of the most compelling aspects of the song is its radical inclusivity, evident in the mention of the "gamblin' man" and the "sinner man" being held in God's hands. This speaks to a grace that transcends human judgment and imperfection, reminding us that God's reach extends to everyone, regardless of their perceived moral standing. This is a profound echo of the Gospel's core message: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23), and equally, that "God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). There is no one outside the scope of His mercy and redemptive power, offering hope and belonging even to those who feel furthest from Him.
The song then shifts to the tender image of the "little bitsy baby," a poignant reminder of God's intimate and protective care for the most vulnerable among us. This specific detail speaks to a deep, personal affection, evoking the biblical sentiment found in Psalm 139:13-16, which describes God knitting us together in our mothers’ wombs, knowing us before we were born. It’s a testament to His personal involvement in every life, from conception onward, and His tender watchfulness over innocence. This powerful imagery assures us that God’s embrace is gentle, nurturing, and ever-present, offering solace and protection.
Finally, the song brings the message full circle, making it intensely personal by declaring that "everybody here" and "you and me, brother" are also held in His hands. This direct address transforms the universal truth into an individual assurance, fostering a sense of shared community and personal security. It's a reminder that no one is overlooked, and that God’s comprehensive care extends to each person's unique journey and struggles. This resonates deeply with passages like Jeremiah 29:11, where God declares, "For I know the plans I have for you," plans to give us hope and a future. Nina Simone’s delivery, rich with depth and conviction, imbues this spiritual with a renewed sense of urgency and intimacy, making its ancient message profoundly relevant and inspiring for anyone seeking peace and meaning in a complex world. The enduring power of this song lies in its ability to simplify the complex truths of faith into an accessible, comforting, and ultimately liberating affirmation of divine control and unwavering love.