E! Khalani Mabandla ~ St. Wendelen's Catholic Parish: A Song Review
E! Khalani Mabandla is a Zulu hymn that expresses the sorrow and lamentation of the faithful as they witness the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The title means "Oh, cry out, heavenly hosts" and the lyrics invite the angels to join in the mourning of the Savior who died for our sins. The hymn is sung by the KwaNina Womsindisi Youth Choir from St. Wendelen's Catholic Parish in South Africa.
The verses are based on Psalm 23, one of the most well-known and beloved psalms in the Bible. The psalm expresses the confidence and comfort of the psalmist in God's presence and protection, even in the face of danger and death. The verses are sung by a soloist, who alternates between male and female voices. The soloist sings with clarity and emotion, bringing out the meaning and beauty of the psalm. The choir joins in the background, echoing and supporting the soloist.
The chorus is a cry of pain and gratitude, saying "Wo! how painful and helpful is this doctor, who died for us who are sinners". The word "doctor" refers to Jesus as the healer of our souls and bodies, as well as the teacher of our faith. The word "wo" is an interjection that expresses both sorrow and admiration.
The hymn is sung in a solemn and mournful tone, with a slow tempo and a minor key. The choir uses harmony and polyphony to create a rich and expressive sound. The accompaniment is minimal, consisting of a keyboard and a drum. The hymn is suitable for Lenten season, especially on Good Friday, when we commemorate the passion and death of Jesus.
The hymn reflects the Catholic faith in several ways. First, it affirms the belief that Jesus is the Son of God who became man and died for our salvation. Second, it acknowledges our sinfulness and our need for God's mercy and grace. Third, it expresses our devotion and gratitude to Jesus for his love and sacrifice. Fourth, it invokes the intercession of the angels who are our guardians and helpers in heaven. Fifth, it inspires us to hope for eternal life with God in heaven.
The hymn also reflects the Zulu culture and spirituality, which are deeply influenced by Christianity. The Zulu people are known for their strong sense of community, their respect for elders and ancestors, their love for music and dance, and their courage and resilience in facing hardships. The hymn showcases these qualities by using the Zulu language, by addressing God as "Nkosi" (Lord or King), by appealing to the heavenly hosts as "mabandla" (groups or clans), by using vivid imagery and metaphors, by singing with emotion and passion, and by enduring the suffering with faith and hope.
In conclusion, E! Khalani Mabandla is a beautiful and powerful hymn that expresses the Catholic faith in a Zulu way. It is a song that can touch our hearts and minds, that can make us cry and pray, that can make us appreciate and love Jesus more. It is a song that can inspire us to follow Jesus in his way of the cross, to share in his suffering and glory, to live as his disciples and friends.
LISTEN BELOW!!Artist: St. Wendelin's Catholic ParishSong: E! Khalani Mabandla |
