Benjamin Dube - El Shaddai Adonai Lyrics
Lyrics
UnguJehova wena Isiphephelo sam’ nguwe Ungumelusi wam’ wena Ukuthula kwam’ nguwe UnguJehova wena Isiphephelo sam’ nguwe Ungumelusi wam’ wena Ukuthula kwam’ nguwe
Ungumthokozisi wena Ukuphila kwam’ nguwe Ungenzel’okuhle wena (Njalo, Njalo) El Shaddai Adonnai nguwe Ungumthokozisi wena Ukuphila kwam’ nguwe Ungenzel’okuhle wena (Njalo, Njalo) El Shaddai Adonnai nguwe Ungumthokozisi wena Ukuphila kwam’ nguwe Ungenzel’okuhle wena (Njalo, Njalo) El Shaddai Adonnai nguwe El Shaddai Adonnai nguwe El Shaddai Adonnai nguwe El Shaddai Adonnai nguwe
Video
Spirit Of Praise 5 feat. Benjamin Dube - Elshadai Medley
Meaning & Inspiration
Spirit Of Praise 5 feat. Benjamin Dube delivered a profoundly moving declaration of faith with "El Shaddai Adonai," released on February 16, 2015. This powerful worship anthem, sung primarily in Zulu, transcends mere musical performance, serving as a deeply personal and universal affirmation of God's unchanging character and presence in the lives of believers. The song's core message is a direct address to God, identifying Him through a series of His divine attributes and roles, culminating in the majestic names "El Shaddai Adonai."
The song opens with a foundational truth, proclaiming, "UnguJehova wena, Isiphephelo sam' nguwe" which translates to "You are Jehovah, You are my refuge." This immediate establishment of God as Jehovah, the covenant-keeping God, sets a tone of trust and reliance. The declaration of Him as a refuge resonates deeply with scriptural assurances like Psalm 46:1, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble," and Psalm 91:2, where the psalmist declares, "I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" Further identifying Him as "Ungumelusi wam' wena," or "You are my Shepherd," directly echoes the beloved Psalm 23:1, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want," painting a picture of divine guidance, provision, and tender care. This image is further enriched by Christ's own words in John 10:11, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep," reinforcing the depth of this pastoral relationship. The subsequent line, "Ukuthula kwam' nguwe," meaning "You are my peace," brings to mind the profound words of Jesus in John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you," and Philippians 4:7, which promises that "the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." These opening declarations establish God as the ultimate source of protection, direction, and inner tranquility.
As the song progresses, it broadens its scope to celebrate God as the source of all joy and life. "Ungumthokozisi wena, Ukuphila kwam' nguwe" translates to "You are my rejoicer/enabler of joy, You are my life." This acknowledgment positions God not just as a provider of necessities, but as the wellspring of true gladness and existence itself. Psalm 16:11 affirms, "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy," while John 10:10 reveals Christ's mission: "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." These lines remind us that joy and abundant life are found uniquely in Him. The affirmation "Ungenzel'okuhle wena (Njalo, Njalo)," meaning "You do good for me (Always, Always)," underscores God's unfailing benevolence. This sentiment is a constant echo throughout Scripture, notably in Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose," and Psalm 23:6, "Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life." The repetition of "Njalo, Njalo" serves to emphasize the unwavering and perpetual nature of God's goodness, providing profound assurance.
The spiritual climax of the song arrives with the powerful and repeated invocation, "El Shaddai Adonai nguwe," declaring, "You are El Shaddai Adonai." These ancient Hebrew names for God carry immense weight and profound theological significance. *El Shaddai*, often translated as "God Almighty" or "God All-Sufficient," speaks to God's immense power, ability to fulfill His promises, and sufficiency to meet every need, as revealed in Genesis 17:1 when God introduced Himself to Abraham: "I am El Shaddai, God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and be blameless." *Adonai*, meaning "Lord" or "Master," emphasizes His supreme authority, sovereignty, and ownership over all creation. It is a title of reverence and submission to His divine rule, frequently appearing in the Old Testament to underscore God's ultimate dominion, as seen in Exodus 34:23. By uniting these two names, the song makes a comprehensive declaration of God's omnipotent power and absolute Lordship, portraying Him as the sovereign and all-sufficient One who is deeply involved in the details of His children's lives.
The recurring structure of these declarations throughout "El Shaddai Adonai" is not merely repetition but a strategic spiritual device that builds conviction and deepens worship. Each iteration reinforces the truth, allowing the profound meaning of God's character to settle into the heart and mind. It transforms the song from a simple melody into a meditative experience, encouraging an unwavering faith that embraces God as the all-encompassing answer to every human need. Benjamin Dube's delivery, imbued with deep reverence, ensures that the message of God's unwavering faithfulness, His protective care, His peace, His joy, and His infinite power becomes a tangible source of inspiration, moving believers to acknowledge and wholeheartedly trust in the God who is indeed El Shaddai Adonai, always and in every way.