God Bless The Child
SoCal VoCals Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Them that's not shall lose
So the Bible says and it still is news
Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own, that's got his own
Yes the strong get smart
While the weak ones fade
Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own, that's got his own
Money, you've got lots of friends
Crowding around your door
When you're gone and spending ends
They don't come no more
Rich relations give crusts of bread and such
You can help yourself, but don't take too much
Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own, that's got his own
The song "God Bless the Child" by Billie Holiday and Arthur Herzog Jr. has been interpreted in a number of ways, ranging from a commentary on racial inequality and poverty to a celebration of self-reliance and personal responsibility. At its core, the song is a jazz-inspired tribute to those who have managed to succeed in life despite the odds stacked against them. The lyrics are a testament to the wisdom of the Bible, which recognizes that those who are blessed with resources and opportunities are more likely to succeed than those who are not.
In the first verse, the lyrics highlight the stark differences between those who have material wealth and those who do not. The phrase "Them that's got shall get / Them that's not shall lose" is a sad commentary on the unfairness that exists in many societies, where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. The lyrics suggest that this pattern is not new, as "the Bible says and it still is news". The second part of the verse offers some hope, however, in the form of a blessing. The child who has his own - his own resources, his own skills, his own vision - is truly blessed, despite what he may lack in terms of material wealth.
The second verse builds on this theme, suggesting that success requires both strength and smarts. The strong, smart people in this world make it to the top, while the "weak ones fade". Again, the lyrics suggest that having empty pockets is a hindrance to success, but they also point out that possessing wealth is not a guarantee of happiness or contentment. The verse ends with a repeat of the chorus, reminding us that true blessing comes from within, not from external sources. Taken together, the lyrics of "God Bless the Child" offer a powerful message about the importance of resilience, ingenuity, and self-reliance in a world that often seems stacked against us.
Line by Line Meaning
Them that's got shall get
Those who already have wealth and power will receive more of it.
Them that's not shall lose
Those who lack wealth and power will continue to have less of it, often losing what little they have.
So the Bible says and it still is news
This idea is an age-old belief that is still relevant today.
Mama may have, Papa may have
One's parents or family members may have some level of financial security or resources.
But God bless the child that's got his own, that's got his own
Those who are self-sufficient and able to provide for themselves are seen as blessed by a higher power.
Yes the strong get smart
People with power and resources often become more skilled and intelligent in order to maintain their position.
While the weak ones fade
Those without resources or support often struggle to survive and may face disadvantage or oppression.
Empty pockets don't ever make the grade
One's financial status can greatly impact opportunities and success in life, with poverty often being a barrier to advancement.
Money, you've got lots of friends
People are often drawn to those who have wealth and power and may seek to gain their favor and benefit from their resources.
Crowding around your door
Those seeking to benefit from one's wealth can become overwhelming and burdensome, creating a sense of isolation or mistrust.
When you're gone and spending ends
People who rely on wealth or resources may abandon or lose interest in someone once their resources are depleted or no longer available.
They don't come no more
Fair-weather friends or those seeking to benefit from one's resources may disappear once those resources are no longer available.
Rich relations give crusts of bread and such
Family members or wealthy associates may offer small amounts of assistance or support, but often with strings attached or limited in scope.
You can help yourself, but don't take too much
While being self-sufficient is an admirable quality, it is important to avoid overreliance or taking advantage of others.
Mama may have, Papa may have
One's family may have some level of support or resources, but this is not always guaranteed or long-lasting.
But God bless the child that's got his own, that's got his own
Those who are able to provide for themselves and maintain a sense of independence are seen as blessed by a higher power.
Contributed by Jonathan F. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@PaulfromEastside
After the first 30 seconds of this performance, the finals in New York were just a formality.