Tribulation
Dennis Brown & The Observer Lyrics

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Rough as the road might seem to be
I'll be toiling on home
I'll be myself and no one
I'll keep trodding on

A man must go through tribulation
No matter who or where he's from
If he's a man of understanding

He then know that time alone will tell

But fools know not of understanding
That's why they stumble
Never going to their way, oh, yeah
For wisdom is hard for them

A man must go through tribulation
No matter who or where he's from
If he's a man of understanding
He then know that time alone will tell

But fools know not of understanding
That's why they stumble
Never going to their way, oh, yeah
For wisdom is hard for them

Rough as the road might seem to be
I'll be toiling on home
I'll be myself and no one
I'll keep trodding on

A man must go through tribulation
No matter who or where he's from
If he's a man of understanding
He then know that time alone will tell

But fools know not of understanding
That's why they stumble
Never going to their way, oh, yeah
For wisdom is hard for them

A man must go through tribulation
No matter who or where he's from
If he's a man of understanding
He then know that time alone will tell

But fools know not of understanding
That's why they stumble

Never going to their way, oh, yeah
For wisdom is hard for them

Overall Meaning

In "Tribulation," Dennis Brown sings about the inevitability of experiencing tough times in life. The first verse establishes the theme of perseverance - regardless of the rough road ahead, he will keep toiling on towards his destination. The chorus repeats the message that everyone, no matter their background, must experience suffering in some form or another. However, those who possess wisdom and understanding recognize the temporary nature of these difficult times, while fools are unable to comprehend this and constantly trip over obstacles.

Essentially, Brown is urging listeners to embrace the inevitability of tribulation and to use their knowledge and discernment to navigate through it. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and pushing forward even in the face of adversity.

The lyrics of "Tribulation" convey a simple yet powerful message, one that is a common theme in reggae music. It encourages listeners to face challenges with strength and determination and to trust that, with time and perseverance, everything will work out in the end.

Line by Line Meaning

Rough as the road might seem to be
Life can be tough and full of obstacles

I'll be toiling on home
I'll keep working hard and moving forward

I'll be myself and no one
I'll stay true to who I am

I'll keep trodding on
I'll keep moving forward despite challenges

A man must go through tribulation
Everyone faces difficult times in life

No matter who or where he's from
It doesn't matter who you are or where you come from

If he's a man of understanding
If someone has wisdom or insight

He then know that time alone will tell
They will realize that only time will reveal what the future holds

But fools know not of understanding
Ignorant or foolish people lack this insight

That's why they stumble
This lack of understanding causes them to struggle and make mistakes

Never going to their way, oh, yeah
They never follow the right path

For wisdom is hard for them
Because they don't have wisdom or insight