Esiphambano Esihle by St. Wendelin's Catholic Parish: A Song Review
Esiphambano Esihle (The Beautiful Cross) is a Zulu song composed by John Mgandu and performed by the choir of St. Wendelin's Catholic Parish in Cleveland, Ohio. The song is a reflection on the mystery and beauty of the cross of Christ, and the meaning of his sacrifice for our salvation. The song is part of the album of the same name, which was released in 2023.
The song begins with a solo voice singing the first line of the chorus in Zulu, followed by the rest of the choir joining in harmony. The chorus repeats four times, with each line ending with the phrase "esiphambanweni" (on the cross). The chorus expresses the main theme of the song, which is to contemplate and adore Jesus who suffered and died on the cross for us.
The song then continues with four verses, each consisting of two lines that rhyme. The verses describe the various aspects of Jesus' passion and death, such as his agony, betrayal, scourging, crowning, carrying, crucifixion, and resurrection. The verses also refer to the different responses of his disciples, enemies, and followers, such as Peter, Judas, Pilate, Herod, Simon, Veronica, Mary, John, and Joseph. The verses are interspersed with the chorus, creating a contrast between the solo and the group voices.
The song ends with a bridge that affirms the victory and glory of Jesus over sin and death. The bridge repeats the phrase "waphinda wazibonakalisa" (he appeared again) four times, followed by four expressions of his resurrection: "kubafundi bakhe" (to his disciples), "kubangcwele bakhe" (to his saints), "kubantu bakhe" (to his people), and "kuthixo wakhe" (to his God). The bridge then leads to a final chorus that fades out gradually.
The song is a testimony of the choir's faith and experience as Catholics in Cleveland. They acknowledge that Jesus is their Lord and Savior, who loved them so much that he gave his life for them on the cross. They also recognize that Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, and that he is alive and present among them in his word and sacrament. They express their love and gratitude to Jesus, and their desire to follow him in their daily lives.
The song is also an invitation to listeners to join them in their meditation and adoration of Jesus on the cross. They want to inspire others to reflect on what Jesus has done for them, and how he has changed their lives. They want to remind others that Jesus is the source of everything good, and that he is worthy of all honor and praise. They want to encourage others to live for him, and to share his love with others.
The song is a masterpiece of musical artistry and spiritual expression. It showcases the choir's vocal skills and harmonies, as well as their cultural identity and diversity. It also conveys their theological beliefs and values, as well as their personal stories and emotions. It is a song that can touch anyone's heart and soul, regardless of their background or beliefs. It is a song that can bring peace, joy, and hope to anyone who listens to it.
LISTEN BELOW!!Artist: St. Wendelin's Catholic ParishSong: Esiphambano Esihle |
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