Alabama - The Old Rugged Cross Lyrics
Lyrics
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross
The emblem of suffering and shame
And I love that old cross
Where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the old rugged cross
And exchange it someday for a crown
To the old rugged cross I will ever be true
It's shame and reproach gladly bear
Then He'll call me someday
To my home far away
Where His glory forever I'll share
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the old rugged cross
And exchange it someday for a crown
And exchange it someday for a crown
Video
Alabama - The Old Rugged Cross (Live)
Meaning & Inspiration
On August 21, 2015, the iconic group Alabama released their rendition of "The Old Rugged Cross," breathing new life into a hymn that has resonated with countless believers for over a century. This release serves as a powerful testament to the timeless nature of its message, reminding new generations of the foundational truths of Christian faith through the distinctive sound of a band deeply rooted in American music tradition. Their decision to cover such a revered piece speaks volumes about their personal conviction and their desire to share a message of enduring hope and sacrifice.
The original hymn, penned by evangelist George Bennard in 1912, was born from a period of deep spiritual contemplation and personal struggles. Bennard sought to articulate the profound meaning of Christ's suffering, not as a distant historical event, but as a deeply personal sacrifice for the redemption of humanity. He aimed to move people beyond a mere appreciation of the cross as an artifact, but to embrace it as the very core of their salvation. Alabama’s take on this classic honors that original intent, delivering it with the earnestness and sincerity characteristic of their musical heritage. Their performance brings forward the raw, unwavering commitment embedded in Bennard's lyrics, inviting the listener to connect with the hymn’s spiritual depth anew.
Analyzing the song’s message, one is immediately drawn to the central symbol: "On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross, the emblem of suffering and shame." This opening line, delivered with a sense of solemn reverence, instantly transports the mind to Calvary. The cross, once a Roman instrument of execution, became the very symbol of divine love and ultimate sacrifice through Jesus Christ. As Isaiah 53:5 proclaims, "But He was pierced for our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities; upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with His wounds we are healed." The lyrics do not shy away from the brutality, yet quickly pivot to a declaration of love for "that old cross, where the dearest and best for a world of lost sinners was slain." This reflects John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life," underscoring that the suffering was for our sake, driven by an unimaginable love.
The recurring refrain, "So I'll cherish the old rugged cross, till my trophies at last I lay down; I will cling to the old rugged cross, and exchange it someday for a crown," speaks to a profound commitment and a future hope. To "cherish" and "cling" are active verbs of devotion, signifying an unwavering dedication to the principles and sacrifice represented by the cross throughout one's earthly journey. The mention of laying down "trophies" is particularly insightful, suggesting that all earthly achievements, accolades, and possessions pale in comparison to the eternal reward of faithfulness to Christ. This resonates with Philippians 3:7-8, where Paul counts everything as "loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord." The promise of exchanging it "someday for a crown" directly points to the believer’s eternal inheritance and glory, as referenced in 2 Timothy 4:8, "Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day." It’s a powerful statement of perseverance and the ultimate vindication of faith.
Further strengthening this message of unwavering allegiance, the song declares, "To the old rugged cross I will ever be true, its shame and reproach gladly bear." This commitment acknowledges that following Christ often involves bearing one's own cross, enduring hardship, and facing societal scorn or misunderstanding for one's faith. Jesus Himself said in Luke 9:23, "If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me." The willingness to "gladly bear" such reproach is a mark of true discipleship, finding strength and purpose in identifying with Christ's suffering, as Hebrews 13:13 encourages, "Let us go forth to Him outside the camp, bearing His reproach." The anticipation of being called "someday to my home far away, where His glory forever I'll share," encapsulates the Christian hope of eternal life with God. This hope is beautifully articulated in John 14:2-3, where Jesus promises, "In My Father's house are many rooms... I go to prepare a place for you... I will come again and will take you to Myself, that where I am you may be also." Alabama's vocal delivery and arrangement, though subtle in our analysis here, allow this profound hope to shine through with comforting clarity, providing solace and conviction to all who hear. The song stands as a powerful declaration of faith, perseverance, and the ultimate joy of salvation, offering encouragement and a clear path for believers to follow.