For Your Name Is Holy
Paul Wilbur
A Sacred Journey into the Divine Presence
Paul Wilbur's song "For Your Name Is Holy" is a profound expression of worship and reverence. The lyrics invite the listener into the 'Holy of Holies,' a term that refers to the innermost and most sacred area of the ancient Jewish temple, where the presence of God was believed to dwell. This imagery signifies a deep, intimate connection with the divine, emphasizing the sanctity and purity required to enter such a sacred space. The mention of entering 'through the blood of the Lamb' is a direct reference to the sacrificial system in the Old Testament, which Christians believe was fulfilled by Jesus Christ's sacrifice, allowing believers to approach God with confidence and reverence.
The repetition of the phrase 'I worship You' underscores the song's central theme of adoration and devotion. By repeating this line, Wilbur emphasizes the act of worship as a continuous, heartfelt response to God's holiness. The use of 'I Am' to refer to God is a nod to the biblical name revealed to Moses in the burning bush, signifying God's eternal and self-existent nature. This reinforces the idea that worship is directed towards a being who is infinitely holy and worthy of all honor.
The chorus, 'For Your name is Holy, Holy Lord,' serves as a powerful declaration of God's holiness. In many religious traditions, the name of God is considered sacred and is treated with the utmost respect. By focusing on the holiness of God's name, the song elevates the act of worship to a recognition of God's supreme and unapproachable purity. This song, therefore, is not just a personal act of devotion but a communal acknowledgment of the divine's transcendent and holy nature.