Lyrics
Translation:
Ngicing isizathu sokukukhonza (I'm thinking of a reason to praise You )
Lesi esahlula abase mandulo( that the one from the past failed)
Sebencabela ukukubethela (so much they put you on the cross)
Bakuphosa emthini wehlazo (they threw you in the tree of shame)
Ngaphandle kokutsi (Besides that)
Wen' uyinkosi ( You are the king)
Ngaphandle kokuthi (Besides that)
Wen' ungumdali (You're the creator)
Ngithol ukuthi nguwe isizathu (I have found that You are the reason)
Nanoma nje ngiyaphila (For me to live.)
Video
Meaning & Inspiration
Ngaphandle Kokuthi is a concise declaration that God deserves praise for both who he is and the life he gives. The lyric looks toward the crucifixion, describing Jesus placed upon a tree of shame, then moves beyond that act to confess him as King and Creator. Praise is therefore grounded in redemption while also recognizing divine authority that does not depend on a single blessing.
The repeated phrase translated as beside that or apart from that creates a reflective progression. Even after considering the cross, the singer continues finding reasons for worship: God reigns, God creates, and God is the reason for life itself. The wording of the supplied translation is compact, but its central confession is clear. Christ endured humiliation, yet remains worthy of honor. By joining the cross with kingship and creation, the song presents worship as a response to saving sacrifice, sovereign rule, and daily existence received from God.
Related Scripture
- Philippians 2:8-11 Paul joins the humiliation of death on a cross with the exaltation of Jesus as Lord.
- Colossians 1:16-17 The passage describes all things as created through Christ and held together in him.
- Acts 17:28 Paul says that life and existence are found in God.