Noyana: A Zulu Hymn of Hope and Faith
Noyana is a Zulu word that means “Are you going to get there?” It is also the title of a popular hymn that was composed by Lebo M, a South African singer and composer who is best known for his work on The Lion King soundtrack. The hymn was first released in 1995 as part of the album Rhythm of the Pride Lands, which featured songs inspired by the Disney film.
The hymn is sung in Zulu and English, and it expresses a longing for heaven and a trust in God’s guidance. The lyrics ask the listener if they are following the path of life and the word of God, and if they are going to reach the heavenly home where people live in peace and harmony. The chorus repeats the word “noyana”, which can also be interpreted as “are you going with me?” or “are you going to see?”
The hymn has been performed by various artists, such as Joyous Celebration, a South African gospel choir that recorded a live version at the Moses Mabhide Stadium in 2016. The hymn has also been used in weddings, funerals, and other occasions where people seek comfort and hope in their faith. Noyana is a hymn that celebrates the joy of salvation and the promise of eternal life.
Noyana is not the only Zulu hymn that has gained popularity and recognition. Zulu hymns are a rich and diverse genre of music that reflects the history and culture of the Zulu people, as well as their Christian faith. Zulu hymns are usually sung in a call-and-response style, with a leader singing a verse and the choir or congregation repeating it. Zulu hymns often use traditional musical instruments, such as drums, rattles, and whistles, as well as harmonies and melodies influenced by Western music.
One of the oldest and most widely used sources of Zulu hymns is the Amagama Okuhlabelela, a Zulu hymnal that was first published in 1911 by the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions for the American Zulu Mission. The hymnal contains 333 hymns, some of which are translations of English hymns, and some of which are original compositions by Zulu authors. The hymnal also uses tonic sol-fa notation, a system of writing music that uses syllables instead of notes.
Some of the most famous and beloved Zulu hymns include Bawo Ndixolele (Father Forgive Me), Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika (God Bless Africa), Thula Sizwe (Be Still Nation), and Ukuthula (Peace). These hymns express themes such as repentance, praise, hope, and unity. They have been sung by various artists and groups, such as Joyous Celebration, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Miriam Makeba, and Soweto Gospel Choir. They have also been used in political and social movements, such as the anti-apartheid struggle and the reconciliation process.
Zulu hymns also reflect the history and identity of the Zulu people, who are one of the largest ethnic groups in South Africa. The Zulu people trace their origins to the lake regions of Central Africa, where they migrated southward over many centuries. They established a powerful kingdom under the leadership of King Shaka in the early 19th century, and resisted the colonial expansion of the British and the Boers. The Zulu people faced many challenges and hardships under the apartheid system, which enforced racial segregation and discrimination. However, they also maintained their culture and traditions, which include their distinctive language, clothing, art, and music.
One of the most famous Zulu hymns is Siyahamba, which means “We are marching” or “We are walking”. The hymn was composed by Andries van Tonder, a missionary who worked among the Zulu people in the 1950s. The hymn is based on a biblical verse that says “We walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). The hymn expresses a confidence in God’s presence and protection, even in times of trouble and darkness. The hymn has been sung by many choirs and groups around the world, and has become a symbol of solidarity and hope for justice and peace.