Down to the River to Pray
Alison Krauss Lyrics

"Down to the River to Pray" is a traditional hymn that has been performed by various artists in different interpretations, including Alison Krauss, whose version was prominently featured in the film "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" In this song, the singer speaks of going down to the river to pray, studying about the "good ol' way," and asking God to show the way to those who shall wear the starry crown or the robe and crown. The purpose of this act of going down to the river to pray is not explicitly stated, but it can be interpreted as a ritual of repentance, spiritual purification, or seeking guidance and redemption.

The use of the river as a motif in this song is significant. The river has often been a symbol of cleansing, renewal, and transformation in religious and spiritual contexts. Baptism, for example, involves the immersion in water to signify the washing away of sins and the beginning of a new life. The act of going down to the river to pray may also symbolize a return to the source of life, a communion with nature, or a surrender to the divine will. Furthermore, the repeated appeals to different groups, such as sisters, brothers, fathers, mothers, and sinners, suggest that the song transcends individual concerns and speaks to a universal human longing for salvation and unity.

In summary, "Down to the River to Pray" is a hymn that combines simplicity and depth, evoking a sense of reverence and intimacy with the divine. The use of the river as a symbol of purification, the repetition of the refrain, and the communal appeal of the verses make this song a powerful expression of faith and hope.