“How Can I Keep From Singing?” is a folk hymn, or perhaps more accurately described as folk spiritual, that has been covered countless times over the years by countless artists. The song is a celebration of faith and spirit in the face of adversity and has been providing hope and comfort to listeners since the late 19th century. This article will take a closer look at the lyrics of “How Can I Keep From Singing?” and explore its meaning, the scripture upon which it is based, who wrote the song, and more.
How Can I Keep From Singing Scripture?
The phrase “How Can I Keep From Singing?” comes from scriptures found in the book of Job in the Bible, chapter 37, verse 3. The precise lyrics of the verse read, “He bindeth up the waters in his thick clouds; and the cloud is not rent under them.” In effect, the lyrics are telling the listener that despite your circumstances and troubles, it is not possible to be indefinitely silenced by them and singing will eventually be your response. This message is one that has held immense personal significance to many who have sung and listened to the song over the years.
How Can I Keep From Singing Lyrics Meaning?
As mentioned before, “How Can I Keep From Singing?” is a celebration of faith and spirit in the face of adversity. It is a call to rise up and push through hardships even in the face of overwhelming odds. This is encapsulated in the song’s chorus, where the lyrics say “No storm can shake my inmost calm/ While to that rock I’m clinging.” This is a powerful and inspirational message which has been taken to heart by many.
“It’s not just a song. It’s a state of mind. That’s why it has connected to so many people.” –Actor Hugh Jackman on “How Can I Keep From Singing?”
Who Wrote the Song “How Can I Keep From Singing?”
The original version of “How Can I Keep From Singing?” was a traditional American folk hymn with origins that can be traced back to the late 19th century. However, the song’s current form was composed and arranged by American composer Philip Paul Bliss in the late 1800s. The song was first published in 1869, and since then has been recorded by a wide range of performers, from country singers to classical musicians. This speaks to the song’s ability to transcend genre and continue to resonate with different listeners throughout the years.
How Can I Keep From Singing Source?
The source of “How Can I Keep From Singing?” is the book of Job in the Bible. After his life was turned upside-down by an onslaught of tragedies brought upon him by God, Job questioned why he should bother bearing his suffering, to which the verse in question is God’s answer. The verse establishes the idea that suffering should not dampen one’s spirit and that even in strife, singing will be the response.
Conclusion
“How Can I Keep From Singing?” is a timeless folk hymn originally composed in the late 1800s. The source of the song are the scriptures of Job in the Bible, which establishes the song’s inspiring message to keep singing in the face of adversity. Ever since the song was published, it has been recorded by many different performers from all kinds of music genres, and continues to be an inspiration to this day.
References
- McDonald, J. (2015, June 14). “How Can I Keep From Singing?”: A Look into the Timeless Hymn. Relevant Magazine.
- Phillips, J. (2013, May 5). Bible Verse of the Day: Job 37:3. Bible Verse of the Day.
- Peterson, B. (2015, August 12). Bible Verse: Job 37:3. What Christians Want To Know.