Meaning of 'Let My People Go'

by The Kelly Family

Interpretation

The song lyrics 'Let My People Go' by The Kelly Family tell the story of the exodus of the people of Israel from slavery in Egypt. The band uses quotes and allusions to the biblical narrative of Moses and the Pharaoh.

The text begins with the people of Israel living in Egypt and being oppressed. They are so heavily burdened that they can no longer endure. Here, the hard work and oppression of the Israelites in Egypt are described.

'Go down, Moses, 'way down in Egypt's land,
Tell ol' Pharao: Let my people go!'

These lines refer to Moses, who was sent by God to free the people of Israel from slavery. He is asked to go to Egypt and tell the Pharaoh to let the people go. This is a direct quote from the story where Moses receives the command to ask the Pharaoh for the release of his people.

'Thus said the Lord, bold Moses said,
Let my people go,
If not, I'll smite your firstborn dead,
Let my people go.'

These lines represent Moses' demand to the Pharaoh. Moses explains that if the Pharaoh does not release the people, God will punish the Pharaoh by killing the firstborns of Egypt. This is another allusion to the biblical story where God punishes the Egyptians with plagues to force the Pharaoh to release the people of Israel.

The song lyrics 'Let My People Go' by The Kelly Family thus tell the story of the exodus of the people of Israel from slavery in Egypt and use quotes and allusions to the biblical story of Moses and the Pharaoh. It expresses the desire for freedom and liberation, and reminds us of the importance of standing up for justice and freedom.