South Africa lined up for a brilliant rendition of the anthem.
What are you actually singing when you sing the national anthem?
Amidst all the national doom and gloom, Nkosi sikelei iAfrika remains a happy song for South Africans. We feel proud of our song when we hear it before rugby and soccer matches. But do we know what it means?
South Africa lined up for a brilliant rendition of the anthem.
Our national anthem is something which gladly represents our diversity, acknowledges our hard history and speaks about hope, peace and unity.
It struck me the other day though, that as proudly as I might sing the anthem (I know it off by heart) there are parts where I don’t know what I’m actually singing. And I’m not alone.
Our anthem is the only national anthem that uses 5 languages.
If we are going to break down the barriers of diversity in our country, we need to start being more honest about what we don’t know and asking more questions with our co-workers and neighbors.
And when you understand the words, Nkosi sikelei iAfrika will be more powerful than before.
Lord, bless Africa
May her spirit rise high up
Hear thou our prayers
Lord bless us.
Lord, bless Africa
Banish wars and strife
Lord, bless our nation
Of South Africa
Ringing out from the blue heavens
From our deep seas breaking round
Over everlasting mountains
Where the echoing crags resound
Sounds the call to come together
And united we shall stand
Let us live and strive for freedom
In South Africa our land
