We've all sung the first verse and heard it performed at sporting matches, but does anyone know the lyrics to the second verse of 'God Save the King'? Here, we explain the history of the British National Anthem and give you the lyrics to both verses.
Who wrote the British National Anthem?
The British National Anthem in its present form dates back to the 18th century, but the words and tune date back to the 17th century.
'God Save the King' was first publicly performed in London in 1745, and was used as the National Anthem from the beginning of the 19th century.
It's not known who wrote the lyrics and tune to 'God Save the King'.
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How many verses of 'God Save the King' are there?
There are two verses of the British National Anthem, shaped by tradition. Additional verses have been added over the years, but they're rarely used. The first verse is usually the only one sung in the context of the British National Anthem.
Why does the King not sing the national anthem?
It is traditional for the reigning monarch not to sing the national anthem, as the anthem is sung to the monarch. It's a display of reverence and loyalty to the monarch, so it would be deemed inappropriate for the monarch to sing it - and frankly a bit weird as he would be asking God to save himself.
God Save the King lyrics
God save our gracious King!
Long live our noble King!
God save the King!
Send him victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us,
God save the King.
Thy choicest gifts in store
On him be pleased to pour,
Long may he reign.
May he defend our laws,
And ever give us cause,
To sing with heart and voice,
God save the King.
Top image: The Union Jack flag flies in the wind (credit: Getty Images)