In honor of the legacy reissue of The Rainbow Children, Prince's 2001 spiritual masterpiece, I've highlighted some Bible verses that are referenced on the album. I used the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, which is the Jehovah's Witness text Prince studied during this time.
1) “Look! The days are coming,” declares Jehovah, “when I will make with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah a new covenant." - Jeremiah 31:31
On Prince's 1988 spiritual concept album, Lovesexy, he stated, "Save me, Jesus. ... You are my God." On The Rainbow Children, which is more rigid in its presentation of Biblical doctrine, he is careful not to equate Jesus with Jehovah. Still, the latter record is, in many ways, a love letter to Christ.
When Prince sings, "The covenant will be kept this time," on the title track, he is referring to an agreement between God and humanity that yields forgiveness of sins through the sacrifice of Jesus. Many Christians believe that this covenant was foretold in the Old Testament.
2) "Who can find a capable wife? Her value is far more than that of corals." - Proverbs 31:10
When Prince mentions a scripture directly, it makes interpretation of his lyrics a little easier. On "Muse 2 the Pharaoh," he speaks about the qualities of the ideal wife--according to Biblical wisdom. The section of Proverbs describes this woman as resourceful, business-minded, hardworking, wise, kind and pious.
Because this is Prince, there's a lot more to consider, including subtext about his real-life marriages and a perception of women that some may find problematic. There are also references to race that have been debated ad nauseam in the fan community.
3) "We heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love you have for all the holy ones because of the hope that is being reserved for you in the heavens. You previously heard about this hope through the message of truth of the good news." - Colossians 1:4-5
Evangelism is a major part of the Jehovah's Witness faith. Followers seek to spread their beliefs, which they refer to as "the truth," to as many people as possible, and continuously practice strategies for effective communication. In their literature, they cite the scripture above to emphasize the importance of their mission.
Prince echoes this sentiment in the song, "The Everlasting Now."
"Don't let nobody bring you down
Accurate knowledge of Christ and the Father
Will bring the everlasting now
Join the party, make a sound
Share the truth, preach the good news
Don't let nobody bring you down
The everlasting now"
Subscribe to my newsletter for updates on my book on Prince's spiritual journey. Click here.
We are all searching for the "truth".....whatever it entails! The real truth is in your heart! What your heart entertains, you do as well! The true church resides in your heart! God has the ability to change a man's heart! Man can try, but only God can! God bless your journey with this book and life itself!
ReplyDeleteWe are all searching for the "truth".....whatever it entails! The real truth is in your heart! What your heart entertains, you do as well! The true church resides in your heart! God has the ability to change a man's heart! Man can try, but only God can! God bless your journey with this book and life itself!
ReplyDelete“The heart is treacherous, and desperate, who can know it?” Jeremiah 17:9 God is the reader of all hearts, and if a man humbles himself to allow it, he can change it for the good.
ReplyDeleteRecently, I have commenced a blog the info you give on this site has encouraged and benefited me hugely. Thanks for all of your time & work. acim
ReplyDeleteI recently found many useful information in your website especially this blog page. Among the lots of comments on your articles. Thanks for sharing. school
ReplyDeletethank you for your interesting infomation. acim and the bible
ReplyDeleteLikewise, wrong convictions about powerful and sound child-raising methods may likewise bring about the abuse of one's own child. In some uncommon and unfortunate cases. boarding schools
ReplyDelete