The Yoruba hymn “Emi Orun Gb’adura Wa,” performed by Oluwalonibisi, is a translation of the English hymn “Spirit Divine, Attend Our Prayers,” originally written by Andrew Reed in 1829. Reed, a notable figure in the Congregational Ministry, was born on November 27, 1787, in London. He served as the pastor of New Road Chapel, St. George’s-in-the-East, and later at the Wycliffe Chapel, which he was instrumental in establishing in 1830. Reed passed away on February 25, 1862. The hymn itself is a supplication to the Holy Spirit, seeking divine presence and influence in the lives of the faithful.
Oluwalonibisi’s rendition of “Emi Orun Gb’adura Wa” not only retains the spiritual depth and lyrical beauty of Reed’s original work but also brings it to life in the rich, expressive Yoruba language. This translation and performance highlight the universality of the hymn’s themes, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers to unite believers in a shared plea for divine guidance and presence. The melody and delivery in Yoruba infuse the hymn with a distinctive cultural resonance, enriching the worship experience and making it accessible to a broader audience.
Through his performance, Oluwalonibisi honors the hymn’s enduring legacy and its message of seeking divine intervention and transformation. The translation is not just a linguistic conversion but a heartfelt interpretation that bridges the gap between the 19th-century English congregation and contemporary Yoruba-speaking Christians, showcasing the timeless relevance of Andrew Reed’s devotional poetry.
Oluwalonibisi, a devoted Child of God, has been spreading the gospel through songs for over 13 years. His discography includes albums like “Come To Me”, “Hymns to Him”, and “Yoruba Hymn Classic”. His previous releases include “Yoruba Hymns”, “Revival Hymns”, “Prophetic Hymns”, and more. His music continues to inspire many.
Emi Orun Gb’adura Wa Lyrics:
Emi orun, gbadura wa,
Wa gbenu ile yi
Sokale pel’agbara Re,
Wa, Emi Mimo wa.
Wa b’imole, si fihan wa
Baini wa ti po to;
Wa, to wa si ona iye,
Ti olododo n rin.
Wa bi ina ebo mimo:
Sokan wa di mimo;
Je ki okan wa je ore,
Foruko Oluwa.
Wa bi iri, si wa bukun
Akoko mimo yi:
Ki okan alaileso wa
Le yo l’agbara Re.
Wa bi adaba, n’apa Re,
Apa ife mimo;
Wa je ki ijo Re laye
Dabi ijo torun.
Emi orun, gbadura wa,
Saye yi dile Re;
Sokale pel’agbara Re,
Wa, Emi Mimo wa.
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Oluwalonibisi Emi Orun Gb’adura Wa mp3 download.
