Hinei Ma Tov

The song 'Hinei Ma Tov,' performed by Paul Wilbur, is a musical rendition of a well-known Hebrew song that originates from a verse in the Psalms (Psalm 133:1) of the Hebrew Bible. The lyrics, 'Hinei ma tov umanaim, Shevet achim gam yachad,' translate to 'Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity.' The song celebrates the joy and beauty of people living together in harmony and peace.

Paul Wilbur's version maintains the traditional Jewish melody and incorporates both Hebrew and English languages to reach a broader audience. The repetition of the phrase 'Hinei ma tov' followed by the joyful 'Lai lai lai' chorus emphasizes the celebratory nature of the song. The simple yet profound message of unity and brotherhood is universal, transcending cultural and religious boundaries, and is often sung in gatherings to promote a sense of community and togetherness.

The song's emphasis on unity is particularly significant in the context of Wilbur's work, as he is known for his Messianic Jewish music, which seeks to bridge the gap between Jewish and Christian beliefs. 'Hinei Ma Tov' thus serves as a reminder of the importance of focusing on shared values and the peace that comes from unity. It is a call to set aside differences and to recognize the beauty in coming together as one human family.