Ngaphandle Kokuthi Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"Ngaphandle Kokuthi" by Spirit Of Praise is a profound and stirring gospel song that delves deep into the themes of grace, redemption, and the sovereignty of God. The song, sung in Zulu, a language rich in expressive capability, captures the essence of Christian faith and devotion, offering listeners a powerful reflection on the nature of God's love and kingship. Below, we'll explore the meaning of the song, break down its lyrics, and relate its themes to specific Bible verses.
### The Meaning of the Song
At its core, "Ngaphandle Kokuthi" speaks to the incomparable nature of God's love and grace. The title itself, which translates to "Besides That" or "Apart from That," sets the tone for a narrative that acknowledges the numerous reasons we have to praise God, focusing on His inherent qualities and actions towards humanity that warrant our worship and adoration.
### Lyrics Breakdown and Analysis
The song begins with a contemplation of reasons to praise God, acknowledging that even the ancients, who may have misunderstood His intentions, ultimately contributed to the fulfillment of His divine plan through the crucifixion of Christ. This act, intended to shame, becomes the very foundation of our redemption.
- **"Ngicing isizathu sokukukhonza" (I'm thinking of a reason to praise You):** This line sets a reflective tone, inviting listeners to consider their own reasons for worship.
- **"Sebencabela ukukubethela...Bakuphosa emthini wehlazo" (so much they put you on the cross...they threw you in the tree of shame):** These lines vividly recount the crucifixion, highlighting the paradox of the cross - an instrument of torture that became the symbol of ultimate salvation.
- **"Ngaphandle kokutsi (Besides that) Wen' uyinkosi (You are the king) Ngaphandle kokuthi (Besides that) Wen' ungumdali (You're the creator):"** Here, the song shifts from the historical act of the crucifixion to timeless truths about God's nature as both King and Creator, reasons for worship that transcend any single event.
### Bible Verses References
Several Bible verses resonate with the themes presented in "Ngaphandle Kokuthi." Here are a few:
- **God's Sovereignty and Kingship:** Psalm 47:7, "For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise." This verse echoes the song's acknowledgment of God's eternal kingship, a fundamental reason for worship.
- **God as Creator:** Revelation 4:11, "You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being." This affirms God's role as the Creator, as highlighted in the song.
- **The Crucifixion and Redemption:** Philippians 2:8, "And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!" This verse underlines the paradox of the cross, a symbol of shame turned into the ultimate emblem of love and redemption.
### Conclusion
"Ngaphandle Kokuthi" by Spirit Of Praise is more than a song; it's a theological reflection set to music. It encourages believers to look beyond the apparent and to find deeper reasons to worship God, rooted in His actions and inherent nature. Through its poignant lyrics and the biblical themes it explores, the song serves as a reminder of the endless reasons we have to praise God, inviting us into a deeper, more contemplative relationship with our Creator and King.
