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Bishop Walter Hawkins’ song "What Is This" is a powerful gospel ballad that explores themes of divine love, sacrifice, and the overwhelming sense of awe and gratitude one experiences in the presence of God’s grace. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Musical Structure and Style:
- Genre: Gospel, specifically contemporary gospel or urban gospel. It incorporates elements of R&B and soul.
- Tempo: Slow and deliberate, allowing the emotion of the lyrics to resonate.
- Instrumentation: Typically includes a strong rhythm section (drums, bass), keyboards (piano, organ), and potentially guitars. The use of strings or synthesizers can add to the song’s grandeur. Vocal arrangements are very important, usually featuring layered harmonies.
- Vocal Style: Bishop Hawkins was known for his rich, emotive baritone voice. The song demands a vocalist with strong control and the ability to convey deep feeling. Backup singers play a crucial role, providing harmony and support.
- Structure: The song often builds in intensity, starting with a quiet, contemplative opening and progressing to a powerful, soaring climax. This is common in gospel music, reflecting the journey of faith and the increasing realization of God’s presence.
Lyrical Content and Themes:
- The Question "What Is This?": The central question of the song expresses a profound sense of wonder and amazement. The singer is overwhelmed by the depth of God’s love and sacrifice. "What is this" is not a literal inquiry seeking information, but rather a rhetorical expression of disbelief and gratitude.
- Divine Love: The song emphasizes the immense and unconditional love of God. This love is often described as being beyond human comprehension. It’s a love that forgives, heals, and sustains.
- Sacrifice: A core element is the contemplation of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. The singer reflects on the suffering endured and the price paid for humanity’s redemption. This sacrifice is presented as the ultimate expression of God’s love.
- Atonement: The song touches upon the concept of atonement – the reconciliation between God and humanity through the sacrifice of Jesus. The singer recognizes the transformative power of this act, which washes away sin and offers salvation.
- Redemption: Tied to atonement, the song celebrates the idea of being redeemed or saved from sin and eternal separation from God. This redemption is presented as a gift freely given through faith.
- Grace: The concept of grace is central. Grace is understood as unmerited favor – a gift from God that is not earned or deserved. The song emphasizes the overwhelming nature of this grace, which is poured out abundantly.
- Humility and Gratitude: The lyrics convey a sense of humility in the face of God’s greatness. The singer acknowledges their own unworthiness and expresses profound gratitude for the blessings received.
- Personal Relationship with God: The song fosters a sense of personal connection with God. It’s not just about abstract theological concepts, but about experiencing God’s love and presence in a tangible way.
Impact and Legacy:
- "What Is This" became a staple in many gospel churches and remains popular.
- It’s frequently performed at worship services, concerts, and other religious gatherings.
- The song’s powerful message of love and sacrifice resonates with people of various backgrounds and denominations.
- It solidified Bishop Walter Hawkins’ reputation as a leading figure in contemporary gospel music.
- The song has been covered by numerous artists, demonstrating its enduring appeal.
Interpretations:
While the core meaning remains consistent, interpretations of "What Is This" can vary slightly:
- Personal Revelation: For some, the song reflects a moment of personal revelation, where they experience a profound understanding of God’s love in their own lives.
- Corporate Worship: In a church setting, the song can be a collective expression of gratitude and adoration, uniting the congregation in shared faith.
- Reflection on Suffering: The song can also provide comfort and hope during times of hardship and suffering, reminding listeners of God’s unwavering love and the promise of redemption.
- Call to Action: Some interpretations see the song as a call to live a life that reflects God’s love and sacrifice, inspiring acts of service and compassion.
In essence, "What Is This" is more than just a song; it’s a spiritual experience that invites listeners to contemplate the profound mysteries of faith and to express their gratitude for the boundless love of God.
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