Eunice Njeri - Sifa Zitande Lyrics
Lyrics
Uhimidiwe Bwana Mungu wa Israeli
Milele hata milele
Tulishukuru jina lako takatifu
Tulifanyie sifa Jina lako ooh
Sifa zitande, sifa zivume
Jina lake Yesu lisifiwe kote
Sifa zitande, sifa zivume
Jina lake Yesu lisifiwe kote
Mwimbieni Bwana nyimbo za furaha
Tulitukuze jina lake tukufu
Lililo tukuka kuliko majina yote
Tangazeni matendo yake ya ajabu
Sifa yoo
Sifa zitande, sifa zivume
Jina lake Yesu lisifiwe kote
Sifa zitande, sifa zivume
Jina lake Yesu lisifiwe kote
Sifa zote zitande
Baba Yetu Baba yee zikufikie
Sifa zote zitande
Baba Yetu Baba yee zikufikie
Twende, Inua inua inua inua Yesu
Cheza,
Sifa zote sifa zote
Zitande zitande
Sifa zote sifa zote
Zitande zitande
Video
Evelyn Wanjiru - Sifa Zitande (Official Video)
Meaning & Inspiration
Eunice Njeri’s powerful anthem, 'Sifa Zitande,' has firmly cemented its place as an integral voice in contemporary worship, a song that transcends its initial recording to become a staple in many spiritual journeys. Its enduring resonance was vividly underscored by the official video release by Evelyn Wanjiru in 2022, which brought this profound message to a refreshed global stage, reminding many of its deeply rooted call to praise. At its heart, 'Sifa Zitande' is a vibrant exposition on the nature of divine exaltation, a direct invitation to the faithful to participate in an unending chorus of adoration for God's holy name. It’s more than just a song; it’s a spiritual command, urging that the glory of God not just be acknowledged, but actively spread throughout every corner of existence.
The song immediately establishes its biblical foundation with the opening lines, "Uhimidiwe Bwana Mungu wa Israeli Milele hata milele," which translates to "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel Forever and ever." This profound declaration echoes ancient prayers and prophecies, reminiscent of King David’s doxology in 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, where he blesses God, the God of Israel, forever and ever. It is a timeless recognition of God's sovereignty and His covenant relationship with His people, calling for perpetual gratitude and honor. The subsequent lines, "Tulishukuru jina lako takatifu Tulifanyie sifa Jina lako ooh" – "We thank Your holy name, Let us make praise for Your name" – draw directly from the Psalmist's encouragement to give thanks to the Lord and bless His name (Psalm 100:4, Psalm 92:1). This segment sets a reverent tone, grounding the entire piece in a deep sense of worship and thanksgiving for God’s intrinsic holiness.
The core message explodes in the chorus, "Sifa zitande, sifa zivume Jina lake Yesu lisifiwe kote," meaning "May praise spread, may praise resound, May His name Jesus be praised everywhere." This is a powerful vision of worship, not confined to sanctuaries but expanding outward, covering the earth like a mighty current. It's a prophetic call to universal praise, resonating with Isaiah 42:12, "Let them give glory to the Lord and declare his praise in the islands," and Revelation 5:13, where every creature in heaven and on earth praises God. The emphasis on Jesus’ name being praised "everywhere" underscores the universality of the Gospel and the ultimate supremacy of Christ, aligning with the biblical mandate for all nations to worship Him (Psalm 67:2). It’s an active, dynamic expression, urging believers to be agents in this global symphony of adoration.
The song then shifts into an exhilarating exhortation: "Mwimbieni Bwana nyimbo za furaha Tulitukuze jina lake tukufu Lililo tukuka kuliko majina yote Tangazeni matendo yake ya ajabu." This translates to "Sing to the Lord joyful songs, Let us exalt His glorious name, Which is exalted above all names, Declare His wondrous deeds." This segment encapsulates the joy and fervor expected in Christian worship. To "sing joyful songs" is a recurring theme in Psalms (e.g., Psalm 95:1, Psalm 96:1-2), inviting believers into a celebratory expression of faith. The declaration that God’s name is "exalted above all names" directly references Philippians 2:9-11, which states that God exalted Jesus and gave Him a name above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow. This reinforces the song’s Christ-centric focus, acknowledging His ultimate authority and majesty. Furthermore, the call to "Declare His wondrous deeds" aligns with Psalm 9:1 and Psalm 105:1-2, which urge us to make known God’s amazing works among the peoples. It’s a reminder that worship is not just inward reflection but an outward proclamation of God’s goodness and power.
As the song progresses, it builds into a communal affirmation: "Sifa zote zitande Baba Yetu Baba yee zikufikie," or "May all praise spread, Our Father, Father, may it reach You." This intimate address, "Our Father," immediately connects to the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9), emphasizing a personal yet collective relationship with God. The desire for "all praise" to "reach You" highlights the purpose of worship: it is directed to God, an offering that ascends to Him. The song then ignites a call to physical, uninhibited worship with "Twende, Inua inua inua inua Yesu Cheza," meaning "Let's go, Lift up, lift up, lift up, lift up Jesus, Dance." This is a powerful, visceral invitation to engage the whole being in worship, much like King David danced before the Lord with all his might (2 Samuel 6:14), or as the psalmist calls us to praise God with dancing and musical instruments (Psalm 149:3). It transcends mere vocal praise, encouraging an active, joyful expression of adoration that involves the body and spirit. The repeated refrain, "Sifa zote sifa zote Zitande zitande," ensures the central message of pervasive, unending praise leaves an indelible mark, serving as a constant reminder and renewed commission for all who engage with this powerful piece of worship.