Jerusalema

During the depths of the pandemic a beacon of joy swept over YouTube - the song, Jerusalema, by South African DJ and record producer, Master KG featuring South African vocalist Nomcebo.

The beat and the dance moves were hypnotic! The surge of sadness and longing was intoxicating! Countless people across the globe took part in the dance challenge and their bliss was an antidote to the fear and uncertainty we all felt at the time.

Yet, the words of the song cut straight to the heart:

Jerusalema ikhaya lami (Jerusalem is my home)
Ngilondoloze, uhambe nami (Save me, and walk with me)
Zungangishiyi lana (Do not leave me here)
Ndawo yami, ayikho lana (My place, is not here)
Mbuso wami, awukho lana (My kingdom, is not here)
Ngilondoloze, uhambe nami (Preserve me, and go with me)

The song speaks to a deep longing to go home; to be anywhere but here; to be safe; to be redeemed.

Jerusalema still moves me to tears today. How did it affect you?