Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: jazz
Song Meaning of “Down By The Riverside” by Charlie Haden
“Down By The Riverside” is an old spiritual tune written in the mid-nineteenth century and performed by many different artists including Charlie Haden. It is a song about hope and faith in times of struggle and hardship. The lyrics describe a journey across the river into a place of security, safety, and comfort, which could represent Heaven.
The chorus of the song states “I’m gonna lay down my sword and shield, down by the riverside. Ain’t gonna study war no more”. These lines signify the release from the struggles and worries associated with war. In the Bible, rivers are often a symbol of cleansing and renewal. By laying down their weapons and armour and going down to the riverside, the singer is symbolically surrendering to their faith and releasing worries and doubts associated with life’s struggles.
The lyrics act as a reminder that, despite life’s hardships, it is possible to find comfort in faith, rest, and solace in the arms of a loving God. The song speaks to the resilience and unwavering belief that all of us have within us, urging us to keep our spirits high and have faith even when times get tough.