Thanks And Praise

Song Meaning

The lyrics establish a powerful devotional core, centered on expressing gratitude and adoration to "Jah Rastafari" and "Selassie I." The opening verse immediately sets a tone of unwavering praise, a sentiment that is reinforced throughout the track. This isn't just a fleeting thought; it's a continuous act of worship, declared from the "rising of the sun until the setting thereof." The repetition of "thanks and praise" and "worthy to be praised" underscores the depth and constancy of this spiritual commitment. The central tension emerges from the narrator's defiance against external negativity. Phrases like "I don't care what the wicked might want to say" and "I don't care what the wicked might want to do" highlight a resolute focus on their faith, irrespective of opposition or doubt. This internal conviction is presented as a shield, allowing the narrator to maintain their spiritual path without wavering. The lyrics suggest a strong sense of personal belief that transcends worldly concerns. The most striking aspect of the craft is the persistent emphasis on "I-wah more." This phrase, repeated extensively in the latter half, appears to signify a deeper, more profound existence or spiritual understanding that "Jah Jah" makes possible. The assertion that "Selassie I live and reign in the hearts of man" and "Jah live in I" transforms the divine from an external entity to an internalized presence. This personal connection is the source of the narrator's strength and their ability to disregard external "wickedness." Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics lies in their directness and the palpable sense of conviction they convey. The simple, repetitive structure amplifies the message of steadfast devotion. By grounding the praise in the continuous cycle of day and night and the internal "reign" of Jah, the lyrics create a feeling of enduring faith. The repeated affirmation "Jah live and he reign for I-wah more" leaves the listener with a powerful impression of spiritual resilience and fulfillment.