Praise Adonai
Paul Wilbur
A Universal Anthem of Worship: 'Praise Adonai' by Paul Wilbur
Paul Wilbur's 'Praise Adonai' is a powerful worship song that exalts the majesty and sovereignty of God. The lyrics open with a rhetorical question, 'Who is like Him?' which sets the tone for the entire song. This question is immediately followed by the imagery of 'Lion and the Lamb,' symbolizing Jesus Christ's dual nature as both a mighty king and a sacrificial savior. The song continues to paint a vivid picture of God's dominion, describing how 'Mountains bow down' and 'Every ocean roars' in reverence to the 'Lord of hosts.' This language emphasizes the awe-inspiring power and authority of God over all creation.
The chorus, 'Praise Adonai,' serves as a call to worship that transcends time and space. The phrase 'From the rising of the sun till the end of every day' suggests that worship is a continuous, unending act. This idea is further expanded with the inclusion of 'All the nations of the earth' and 'All the angels and the saints,' indicating that this praise is not limited to a specific group but is a universal act of adoration. The repetition of the word 'praise' underscores the song's central theme of worship and reverence.
Paul Wilbur is known for his Messianic worship music, which blends Jewish musical traditions with contemporary Christian worship. This song, like many of his others, aims to bridge cultural and religious divides, inviting listeners from all backgrounds to join in the worship of Adonai, a Hebrew name for God. The song's universal appeal lies in its simple yet profound message: that God is worthy of praise from all corners of the earth, at all times, and by all beings. This inclusivity and the grandeur of its imagery make 'Praise Adonai' a timeless anthem of worship.