☝️ Key Points
- The song 'If It Be Your Will' by Leonard Cohen speaks of humility, faith, and willing submission to a higher, divine will.
- In the first verse, Cohen expresses his willingness to silence his voice if it is God's will, demonstrating his deep humility and respect.
- In the second verse, Cohen expresses his faith and desire to sing praises despite the challenges (symbolized by 'broken hill') if it is God's will.
- The third verse is a prayer for redemption and healing, in which Cohen asks God to show mercy and heal the 'burning hearts in hell'.
- The last verse is a prayer for closeness to God and the unity of all his 'children', despite their imperfections, symbolized by 'rags of light'.
Interpretation
The song 'If It Be Your Will' by
Leonard Cohen is a moving ballad that explores themes of devotion, grace, and healing. The singer-songwriter expresses a deep humility in this song and shows his willingness to submit to divine will.
The first verse 'If it be your will / That I speak no more / And my voice be still / As it was before' speaks of Cohen's readiness to remain silent if it is God's will. He shows his willingness to surrender and wait to be called. This demonstrates a profound humility and respect for a higher power.
In the second verse 'If it be your will / That a voice be true / From this broken hill / I will sing to you', the focus shifts to singing praises. Despite the difficulties and challenges (represented by the 'broken hill'), he is willing to raise his voice and sing praises if it is God's will. This verse showcases Cohen's faith and his desire to sing praises despite all adversities.
The third verse 'If it be your will / If there is a choice / Let the rivers fill / Let the hills rejoice' is a prayer for redemption and healing. Cohen asks God to pour grace upon the 'burning hearts in hell' and heal them. This verse shows Cohen's desire for healing and redemption for the world.
The last verse 'And draw us near / And bind us tight / All your children here / In their rags of light' is another prayer for unity and closeness to God. Despite their imperfections (represented by the 'rags of light'), he asks God to draw them near and bind them tightly. This verse showcases Cohen's longing for closeness to God and his hope for redemption for all people.
Overall, 'If It Be Your Will' is a profound and emotional song that expresses Cohen's humility, faith, and hope. It is a prayer for healing, redemption, and closeness to God.