Lauryn Hill - Conquering Lion Lyrics

Conquering Lion Video

Conquering Lion Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

The song "Conquering Lion" by Lauryn Hill is a powerful anthem that draws heavily from Rastafarian and Christian themes, emphasizing the idea of spiritual victory and liberation. Through its lyrics, Hill invokes the imagery of the "Conquering Lion," a symbol deeply rooted in both Rastafarian belief and Christian tradition, representing Jesus Christ as described in Revelation 5:5, "Then one of the elders said to me, 'Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.'" This verse is central to understanding the song's message of hope, strength, and emancipation.

**Lyrics Breakdown and Analysis:**

1. **"The conquering lion / Shall break every chain":** These opening lines immediately set the tone for the song, suggesting that through faith in Christ, the ultimate "Conquering Lion," believers can overcome any bondage or obstacles in their lives. This imagery of breaking chains is reminiscent of biblical themes of liberation, such as the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt (Exodus 12) and the spiritual freedom Christians have in Christ (Galatians 5:1).

2. **"Give him the victory / Again and again":** This refrain emphasizes the continuous and recurring nature of Christ's victory over sin and death, suggesting that believers should persistently seek and celebrate this triumph in their lives. It echoes themes found in 1 Corinthians 15:57, "But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."

3. **"The conquering lion / He'll break every chain / Every one of your chains, every one of your chains":** As the song progresses, it personalizes the message, indicating that Christ's power to liberate is not just a general truth but something accessible to every individual believer, addressing their unique struggles and 'chains'. This personal touch invites listeners to reflect on their own lives and find hope in the song's message.

4. **"Give us some victory / We need some victory":** The song becomes a prayer in these lines, a plea for divine intervention and victory in the face of challenges. It's a communal cry, uniting listeners in their shared need for spiritual victory, reflecting the communal prayers found throughout the Psalms, such as Psalm 20:5, "May we shout for joy over your victory and lift up our banners in the name of our God."

**Bible Verse References:**

- **Revelation 5:5:** As previously mentioned, this verse identifies Jesus as the "Lion of the tribe of Judah," directly correlating with the song's title and main theme.
- **Galatians 5:1:** "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." This verse underlines the theme of liberation from bondage, which is central to the song.
- **1 Corinthians 15:57:** This verse encapsulates the song's repeated calls for victory in Jesus, highlighting the ultimate triumph believers have in Him.
- **Psalm 20:5:** Reflecting the communal aspect of the song's plea for victory, this verse showcases the collective hope and prayer for God's deliverance.

In conclusion, Lauryn Hill's "Conquering Lion" is a song rich in biblical imagery and themes, offering listeners a message of hope, strength, and liberation through faith in Jesus Christ, the ultimate Conquering Lion. It beautifully weaves together Rastafarian and Christian symbols to communicate a universal message of spiritual victory.