Jah Live

Bob Marley's song 'Jah Live' is a powerful anthem that reaffirms the singer's Rastafarian faith and responds to skeptics who doubted the vitality of his beliefs. The song was released in 1975, following the death of Haile Selassie I, the Emperor of Ethiopia, who is considered by Rastafarians to be the living God, or Jah. The lyrics serve as a declaration that despite Selassie's death, Jah still lives and the Rastafarian faith remains unshaken.

The phrase 'Jah live! Children yeah!' is a call to all believers, and potentially to the younger generation, to recognize and celebrate the enduring presence of Jah. Marley uses the metaphor of a 'foolish dog bark[ing] at a flying bird' to illustrate the futility of those who criticize or mock things they do not understand, such as the Rastafarian faith. The 'flying bird' in this case could symbolize the spiritual and untouchable nature of Jah. The song also contains a message of resilience and victory, as expressed in the line 'Is he who laugh last, children! Is he who win,' suggesting that those who maintain their faith amidst adversity will ultimately triumph.

The song's chorus, 'Let Jah arise! Now that the enemies are scattered,' is likely a reference to Psalm 68:1 from the Bible, which is often cited in Rastafarian music and literature. This line reinforces the idea that Jah's power is supreme and everlasting, and that any opposition will ultimately be overcome. 'Jah Live' is not just a song of religious conviction; it is also a statement of cultural resistance and a source of comfort and assurance for those who share Marley's beliefs.