Celebrate/ Shangilia Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Evelyn Wanjiru's song "Celebrate/Shangilia," released on December 6, 2018, with an accompanying video, serves as a powerful call to worship and adoration. The song seamlessly blends English and Swahili, reflecting its broad appeal and grounding in African gospel traditions. The title itself, "Celebrate/Shangilia," emphasizes this duality, with "Shangilia" translating from Swahili to mean rejoice, celebrate, or exalt.
The core of the song is a direct command and invitation: "Celebrate Jesus" or "Shangilia Yesu." This repeated phrase establishes a clear focus on directing praise and joy towards Jesus Christ. The rhythm and repetition inherent in these lines create an atmosphere conducive to corporate worship, encouraging listeners to join in the declaration.
The song provides a specific reason for this celebration: "Ametenda makuu," which translates to "He has done great things." This statement anchors the joyful praise in the recognition of God's powerful and benevolent actions. The lyrics further extol God by listing several of His significant titles: "Bwana wa mabwana" (Lord of lords), "wa majeshi" (of hosts), and "Jehovah Adonai." These names highlight God's supreme authority, power over all creation, and His sovereign lordship.
The themes present in "Celebrate/Shangilia" resonate deeply with numerous passages in scripture that call believers to praise and rejoice in God. The command to "celebrate" or "rejoice" aligns with verses like Psalm 32:11, "Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous ones; And shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart." The declaration that God "has done great things" echoes scriptures such as Psalm 126:3, "The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy," or Psalm 105:1-2, which encourages giving thanks and making known His deeds. Furthermore, the naming of God with titles like "Lord of lords" and "God of hosts" is consistent with scriptural references acknowledging His ultimate power and sovereignty, as seen in Revelation 19:16 and various references to the Lord of Hosts in the Old Testament.
The song's structure, characterized by simple, repetitive, yet profound declarations, is effective in fostering an environment of praise. It is designed not just for listening, but for active participation, making it suitable for congregational settings or personal devotion. The combination of accessible language, powerful titles for God, and the central theme of celebrating God's great works makes "Celebrate/Shangilia" an inspirational piece that encourages believers to express their gratitude and adoration joyfully.
![Celebrate/ Shangilia Lyrics - Evelyn Wanjiru]()
