Swing
Josiah and the Bonnevilles Lyrics

The lyrics in "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" by Josiah and the Bonnevilles are a spiritual song that is rooted in black American history. It speaks about the hope for the afterlife and the desire to be carried away by angels when it's time to leave this world. The song draws inspiration from the story of Prophet Elijah's ascension into heaven after being carried by a chariot of fire.

The opening lines, "I looked over Jordan and what did I see? Coming' for to carry me home. There was a band of angels, a-comin' after me" speak about crossing the Jordan River, which is a Biblical reference when the Israelites were crossing to the Promised Land. The mention of the "band of angels" is a reference to the belief that angels would come to carry believers to heaven.

The chorus, "Swing low, sweet Chariot, Comin' for to carry me home" repeats throughout the song acting as a call to the angels to come and carry the singer home. The verses mention the ups and downs of life, but the belief that the soul is destined for heaven is unflinching. The last verse emphasizes the hope of reuniting with loved ones in the afterlife.

In conclusion, "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" is a powerful statement of faith and hope in the promise of an eternal life with the Lord. It has become a significant part of African American history and slave culture, with its message of freedom from this world's troubles and the hope of life everlasting.