Wo! Ngobuhlungu benhlupheko: A Song of Suffering and Hope
If you are a Catholic from South Africa, or have visited the country during the Lenten season, you may have heard or sung a hymn that goes like this:
Wo! Ngobuhlungu benhlupheko
E! Msindisi wami
Mhla uzidela nokuphila ngosindiso lwami
Wawukhathazwa udunyazwa
Ngobonga ngani eNkosini ngingenalutho?
The phrase 'Wo! Ngobuhlungu benhlupheko' means 'Oh! The pain of suffering' in Zulu, one of the official languages of South Africa. The hymn is a lamentation of the passion and death of Jesus Christ, our Savior. It expresses the sorrow and gratitude of the singer for the sacrifice that Jesus made for our salvation. It also reflects some of the core beliefs and values of the Catholic faith, such as:
The life and dignity of the human person: The Catholic Church proclaims that human life is sacred and that the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society. Jesus showed respect for his own dignity and that of others by accepting his cross and dying for our sins. He also revealed the value of human life by rising from the dead and conquering death. We believe that every person is precious, that people are more important than things, and that the measure of every institution is whether it threatens or enhances the life and dignity of the human person.
The call to family, community, and participation: The Catholic Church teaches that the person is not only sacred but also social. We are called to participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable. Jesus formed a community of disciples who followed him and shared his mission. He also contributed to the common good by preaching the Gospel and healing the sick. We believe people have a right and a duty to participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable.
The option for the poor and vulnerable: The Catholic Church teaches that a basic moral test is how our most vulnerable members are faring. We are called to put the needs of the poor and vulnerable first. Jesus was born poor and lived among the poor and marginalized. He faced discrimination, oppression, and violence from the authorities and his enemies. He also identified with the poor and marginalized by sharing their resources and caring for their needs. We are called to follow his example and to be in solidarity with those who suffer.
The solidarity: The Catholic Church teaches that we are one human family, whatever our national, racial, ethnic, economic, or ideological differences. We are called to love our neighbor as ourselves, and to work for peace and justice in the world. Jesus showed solidarity with all people, especially sinners, outcasts, and enemies. He also showed solidarity with God, his Father, by doing his will and offering his life. We are called to be in communion with God and with one another.
LISTEN BELOW!!Artist: St. Joseph's Cathedral ChoirSong: Bheka Nansi Nkosi Yakho |
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The hymn 'Wo! Ngobuhlungu benhlupheko' is more than just a song. It is a prayer, a confession, and a commitment. It invites us to remember the passion and death of Jesus Christ, our Savior, to thank him for his love and mercy, and to follow his example of suffering and hope.
