Tenho Lido da Bela Cidade

Izaías Mendes' song "Tenho Lido da Bela Cidade" is a deeply spiritual and evocative piece that delves into the Christian vision of heaven. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a celestial city, constructed by Christ, adorned with jasper walls and golden trophies. This imagery is rich with biblical references, particularly from the Book of Revelation, which describes the New Jerusalem. The song emphasizes the eternal life and vigor that flow from the river in the city's square, symbolizing the eternal life promised to believers. However, Mendes poignantly notes that only a fraction of this heavenly glory has been revealed to mortals, suggesting that the true splendor of heaven is beyond human comprehension.

The second verse shifts focus to the dwellings prepared by Jesus for the faithful. These homes are depicted as places of eternal happiness, free from sorrow, pain, and suffering. This aligns with the Christian belief in a heavenly reward for the faithful, where they will live in perpetual joy. The repetition of the idea that half of the celestial joy has never been told to mortals reinforces the theme of the ineffable and unimaginable nature of heaven's glory.

In the final verse, Mendes describes the radiant garments and crowns that the saints will receive, symbolizing their eternal reward and recognition by God. The imagery of walking on streets of gold and crystal further enhances the opulent and divine nature of the heavenly city. The recurring refrain that half of the celestial glory has never been told to mortals serves as a humbling reminder of the limitations of human understanding and the boundless nature of divine grace and glory. Mendes' song is a beautiful and hopeful reflection on the Christian promise of eternal life and the indescribable beauty of the heavenly realm.