Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: hard-rock
Song Meaning of “Hymn 43” by Jethro Tull
“Hymn 43″ by Jethro Tull is a song that explores a deeply personal spiritual journey, as the narrator searches for answers and solace in a faith-filled life. While the song is typically interpreted as being about a person’s relationship with God, it could also represent someone’s relationship with any higher power or force in their life. The song opens with an intense build in its musical accompaniment, creating an atmosphere of questioning that’s almost urgent in its nature.
The song follows with questions like, “Do I believe in God? What does it mean? Nothing I can touch, nothing I can see.” The narrator confronts his doubts and questions his own faith, leading to a chorus of acceptance and surrender, “Oh Lord, hear me calling”. He decides to “tread that long road,” instead of turning away from his faith-seeking journey.
The narrator’s spiritual journey is equated to a pilgrimage, as he sings “My journey goes on, I’ll tread all paths and seek out one true faith that answers every time.” He reflects on the fact that he would sometimes rather ignore the call of his faith, “But I can turn away from this path I walk, and choose the other one that calls me there.” In the bridge, the narrator realizes his faith is what will ultimately keep him steady and believing, “Tears will cleanse away my pride, and eventually I’ll see the promise made.”
In the end, the narrator comes to the conclusion that faith is an ongoing journey of trust and understanding that needs to be embraced. He expresses his devotion to his faith with lyrics like, “Oh Lord, I hear you calling,” and “My journey goes on,” showing that he is truly dedicated to the call of faith. Overall, “Hymn 43” is a song that displays a personal and deeply satisfying feeling of belief and connection, as the narrator journeys on, believing in something greater than himself.