“This Little Light of Mine” is one of the first songs many children learn in Sunday school. Its simple lyrics carry a big message! Sing along with this joyful song on our Kids Channel. Then print out the lyrics and read about its history in this blog post.
“This Little Light of Mine” Lyrics
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine! This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine! This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine! Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine! This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine! This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine! Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!
Click the image to download a printable PDF of the “This Little Light of Mine” lyrics.
Sing along with our beautifully illustrated version of the song!
History of “This Little Light of Mine”
“This Little Light of Mine” is often sung by children in Sunday school in reference to Matthew 5:14–16, however, the song’s exact origins are unclear.
Matthew 5:14–16
14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.
15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
The song is commonly attributed to songwriter Harold Dixon Loes. During his music ministry, he composed 3,000 songs and wrote the lyrics for 1,500 hymns and gospel songs. It is unclear whether he wrote the song itself or an arrangement of the song.
What is known is that the phrase “this little light of mine” was first published in a book of poetry by Edward G. Ivins in 1925. The Library of Congress has it on file that the first recording of the song was made in 1934.
“This Little Light of Mine” spread through American churches in the early to mid-twentieth century. Then in the 1950s–60s it gained popularity in the Civil Rights Movement as leaders used music to unify people.
Today children all over the world recognize this familiar tune and sing about spreading light and hope throughout all nations.
Click the image to download a printable PDF of the “This Little Light of Mine” lyrics and spread light in your neighborhood.
I did not know that the Library of Congress has this on file. What a powerful song. I think we often down play the impact we as an individual can have and this song is a reminder that one light can shine bright!
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Comments
Fascinating history . Today, it continues to inspire children worldwide, spreading light and hope. 🌍💫
Intersting history and beautiful song with resources! Every child should know this song!
Mine & my littles favorite nursery song 🤍
We love singing this every morning while getting ready!
I did not know that the Library of Congress has this on file. What a powerful song. I think we often down play the impact we as an individual can have and this song is a reminder that one light can shine bright!