Leaning on the Everlasting Arms Lyrics Meanings Iris Dement

"Leaning on the Everlasting Arms" is a hymn with a long history and is considered a classic of the Christian faith. It was written in 1887 by the Reverend Elisha A. Hoffman (1839-1929) with music composed by Anthony J. Showalter (1858-1924). The hymn's comforting lyrics and uplifting melody have made it a popular choice for worship services and funerals alike.

In 2015, the American singer-songwriter Iris DeMent recorded a version of "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms" for the Coen Brothers' film "True Grit." Her version features a simple acoustic arrangement with her clear, emotive vocals front and center.

Lyrics Meanings of the song:

Leaning on the Everlasting Arms is a hymn that speaks to the comforting and steadfast nature of God's love and support. While the lyrics Leaning on the Everlasting Arms are relatively simple, they convey a powerful message of faith and trust in God's guidance and protection.

The first verse establishes the joyful and peaceful nature of relying on God's everlasting arms. The phrase "everlasting arms" is a reference to Deuteronomy 33:27, which describes God as "the eternal God, and underneath are the everlasting arms." This verse emphasizes the security and stability of God's love.

Chorus:

Leaning, leaning,

Safe and secure from all alarms;

Leaning, leaning,

Leaning on the everlasting arms.

The chorus repeats the central theme of the song: that by leaning on God's everlasting arms, we are safe and secure from all harm.

The second verse speaks to the sense of guidance and direction that comes from relying on God's love. The phrase "pilgrim way" refers to the journey of faith that believers undertake, and the idea that by leaning on God, the path becomes clearer and more illuminated.

The final verse speaks to the confidence and reassurance that comes from knowing that God is with us. The phrase "what have I to dread, what have I to fear" suggests that by leaning on God, we have nothing to fear, because we are in his loving care.

Biography of the Iris Dement:

Iris DeMent was born in 1961 in Arkansas, USA. She grew up in a large family and was exposed to a wide variety of music, including gospel, country, and folk. Her parents were both musicians, and her father played guitar and wrote songs.

DeMent began writing and performing her own music in the 1980s, drawing on her roots in traditional American music. She released her debut album, "Infamous Angel," in 1992, which received critical acclaim for its heartfelt and poignant songwriting.

Over the years, DeMent has continued to release albums and tour extensively, earning a dedicated following for her honest and deeply personal approach to music. Her version of "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms" has become one of her most beloved recordings, showcasing her raw, unadorned vocal style and her ability to convey profound emotion through her singing.

Reviews of the song:

"Leaning on the Everlasting Arms" is a classic hymn that has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Iris Dement's rendition of the song lyrics are widely regarded as one of the most powerful and moving versions. Iris Dement's rendition of "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms" is widely acclaimed for its soulful and heartfelt delivery, and for its ability to convey the power of faith and God's love.

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