LU YEHI
Naomi Shemer
A Prayer for Peace and Hope: The Essence of 'LU YEHI'
Naomi Shemer's song 'LU YEHI' is a poignant and heartfelt plea for peace, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity. The lyrics, written in Hebrew, translate to a repeated request for things to be as they should be, encapsulated in the phrase 'Lu Yehi,' which means 'Let it be.' This simple yet profound refrain underscores the song's central theme of yearning for stability and tranquility amidst turmoil.
The imagery in the song is vivid and evocative. Shemer paints a picture of a white sail against a heavy black cloud, symbolizing hope and purity standing resilient against the darkness of despair. The mention of holiday candles flickering in the windows evokes a sense of warmth, tradition, and continuity, even in challenging times. The sound of the shofar and drums further ties the song to Jewish cultural and religious practices, emphasizing a collective call for divine intervention and peace.
Shemer's lyrics also touch on the personal and communal aspects of longing. The small neighborhood with a house and a red roof represents a microcosm of safety and normalcy that everyone desires. The end of summer and the end of the road signify transitions and the hope for a safe return to familiar and comforting places. The song concludes with a wish for light to break through the darkness and for strength and peace to be granted to all those we love. This universal message of hope, resilience, and the desire for peace resonates deeply, making 'LU YEHI' a timeless anthem for those seeking solace and strength in difficult times.