Let Jah Be Praised

Lucky Dube's song "Let Jah Be Praised" is a profound reflection on the mysteries of life and the divine forces that govern the natural world. The lyrics emphasize the everyday wonders that we often take for granted, such as the wind, the moon, the stars, and the very essence of life itself. These elements are presented as gifts that we receive without fully understanding their origins or the mechanisms behind them. The recurring question, "where do all these things come from?" underscores a sense of wonder and curiosity about the natural world and our place within it.

The song suggests that while we may not have all the answers, there is a higher power—referred to as Jah—that orchestrates these phenomena. The repetition of the phrase "Only God knows" serves to highlight the limitations of human understanding and the need for faith in something greater than ourselves. This acknowledgment of divine mystery is a call to humility and reverence, urging listeners to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the world around them.

Culturally, the song draws on Rastafarian beliefs, with references to Jah (a term for God in Rastafarianism) and phrases like "Igziabeher, negusa negast," which means "Lord of Lords" in Amharic, a language spoken in Ethiopia. This cultural context enriches the song's message, connecting it to a broader spiritual and philosophical tradition that values nature, life, and the divine. By urging listeners to "Let Jah be praised," Lucky Dube invites us to celebrate and honor the divine forces that sustain and enrich our lives, even if we cannot fully comprehend them.