NurseryRhymes.info
Can you count the stars
1837 
Germany Lyrics
twinkle in the midnight sky?
Can you count the clouds, so lightly
o'er the meadows floating by?
God, the Lord, doth mark their number,
with His eyes that never slumber;
He hath made them every one.
Can you count the wings now flashing
in the sunshine's golden light?
Can you count the fishes splashing
in the cooling waters bright?
God, the Lord, a name hath given,
to all creatures under Heaven;
He hath named them every one.
Do you know how many children
rise each morning blithe and gay?
Can you count their jolly voices,
singing sweetly day by day?
God hears all the happy voices,
in their merry songs rejoices;
and He loves them, every one.
History and Meaning
The English version from the original German 'Weißt du, wie viel Sternlein stehen' which translates to 'Do you know how many stars there are?'. The lyrics were written by the Protestant pastor and poet Wilhelm Hey (1789–1854), who first published it in 1837. The melody is a German folk tune named 'So viel Stern’ am Himmel stehen entlehnt' dating back to 1818.
Structurally, the hymn uses its verses to pose questions about the human inability to count vast natural elements – specifically stars, clouds, raindrops, and birds. Each verse contrasts this limitation by affirming God's complete knowledge or control; stating He knows the stars by name, sends the clouds, knows every drop of rain, and hears the birds sing. The chorus reinforces the theme of God's awareness and care, mentioning His role as Father and referencing Jesus' love for children.