I was standing by my window
On a cold and cloudy day
When I saw the hearse come rolling
For to carry my mother away.
Will the circle be unbroken
By and by Lord, by and by
There's a better home awaiting
In the sky Lord, in the sky.
Well, I went back home, home was lonely
For my mother she was gone
And all my family there was crying
For out home felt sad and alone.
Will the circle be unbroken
By and by Lord, by and by
There's a better home awaiting
In the sky Lord, in the sky.
Undertaker, undertaker, undertaker
Won't you please drive slow
For that lady you are hauling
Lord, I hate to see her go.
Will the circle be unbroken
By and by Lord, by and by
There's a better home awaiting
In the sky Lord, in the sky.
There's a better home awaiting
In the sky Lord, in the sky
Will the Circle Be Unbroken Video
Will the Circle Be Unbroken Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Will the Circle Be Unbroken by Randy Travis
Introduction:
"Will the Circle Be Unbroken" is a classic gospel hymn that has been recorded by numerous artists over the years. One notable rendition is by Randy Travis, a beloved country music artist known for his soulful delivery and powerful lyrics.
Key Messages of the Song:
The lyrics of "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" convey several key messages, starting with the opening lines:
"I was standing by my window
On a cold and cloudy day
When I saw the hearse come rolling
For to carry my mother away."
These lines set the stage for the song, depicting a scene of loss and mourning. The narrator is witnessing the procession of a hearse that is carrying their mother, indicating the passing away of a loved one. The somber tone immediately draws the listener into a reflection on mortality and the circle of life.
The chorus of the song repeats the question, "Will the circle be unbroken, by and by Lord, by and by?" This question encapsulates the central theme of the song, pondering the continuity and eternal nature of life beyond death. It expresses a longing for assurance that the circle of life, love, and relationships will remain unbroken even in the face of death.
The second verse further explores the narrator's emotions and the impact of their mother's passing:
"Well, I went back home, home was lonely
For my mother she was gone
And all my family there was crying
For our home felt sad and alone."
These lines convey a deep sense of grief and loneliness that the narrator and their family are experiencing. The absence of the mother figure is deeply felt, leaving the home in a state of sorrow and emptiness. It reflects the universal experience of losing a loved one and the profound effect it has on the dynamics of a family.
The third verse adds a touch of reflection and questioning:
"Undertaker, undertaker, undertaker
Won't you please drive slow
For that lady you are hauling
Lord, I hate to see her go."
Here, the narrator addresses the undertaker, expressing a desire for a slower procession to prolong the moment of farewell. The use of "that lady" emphasizes the personal connection and affection felt towards the deceased. It conveys a heartfelt sentiment of not wanting to let go and a reluctance to witness the finality of death.
Meaning of the Song:
"Will the Circle Be Unbroken" is a song that delves into the universal themes of life, death, and the enduring power of love and relationships. It captures the human experience of loss and grief while seeking reassurance and hope for a continued connection with those who have passed away.
The song's title and recurring question, "Will the circle be unbroken?", allude to the concept of eternal life and the hope that death does not sever the bonds of love and kinship. It expresses a longing for the continuity and unbroken nature of relationships, even in the face of mortality.
Inspiration and Song Story:
"Will the Circle Be Unbroken" is a traditional hymn that originated in the early 1900s and has been passed down through generations. The song's origins can be traced back to the Southern United States, where it was commonly sung in churches and at funerals.
The specific inspiration or story behind Randy Travis's recording of the song is not readily available. However, it is likely that Travis, a deeply spiritual artist known for his faith-based music, was drawn to the song's poignant message and its relevance to his own experiences and beliefs.
Biblical Analysis:
When analyzing the biblical aspects of "Will the Circle Be Unbroken," several themes and references can be identified. The song touches on the concepts of death, mourning, and the hope of eternal life, which are central to Christian teachings.
In Ecclesiastes 3:1-2, it is written, "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die." This verse reflects the cyclical nature of life and the inevitability of death. The lyrics of the song echo this sentiment, acknowledging the passing of a loved one and the sorrow it brings.
Furthermore, the chorus of the song poses the question, "Will the circle be unbroken, by and by Lord, by and by?" This phrase alludes to the promise of eternal life and the hope of reunion with loved ones in heaven. In John 14:2-3, Jesus says, "In my Father's house are many rooms... I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself." This biblical reference supports the idea that the circle of life and relationships will be unbroken in the eternal realm.
Conclusion:
"Will the Circle Be Unbroken" is a powerful and emotionally resonant song that explores the themes of loss, grief, and the hope for eternal life. Randy Travis's rendition of the song captures the essence of the original hymn while infusing it with his own heartfelt delivery. Although the specific inspiration behind Travis's recording is not known, the song's universal message and biblical undertones make it a timeless and deeply meaningful piece of music.
