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Jamaica National Anthem
The Jamaica National Anthem is quite a recent addition to the Jamaican cultural scene. We heard it in the Olympics and we have heard it at the World Track and Field finals so here is a little recent history and the words to follow along.
According to Jamaican Government issue, the words of the official National Anthem were submitted as a competition, first announced in 1961. It was for the words only and after sifting through more than 100 entries, the competition closed at the end of March 1962.
A joint committee of the Jamaican Parliament narrowed it down to two possibles and a majority of the parliamentary leaders voted and approved one of them. This anthem had been constructed by the Rev. and Hon. Hugh Sherlock, OJ, OBE, Hon. Robert Lightbourne (responsible for most of the music), Mapletoft Poulle and Mrs. Raymond Lindo, previously Mrs. Poulle.
This is the actual anthem...with some nice pictures...turn up the sound...
The actual words are as follows:
The Jamaican National Anthem
Eternal Father, Bless our Land Guard us with thy mighty hand Keep us free from evil powers Be our light through countless hours To our leaders, great defender Grant true wisdom from above Justice, truth be ours forever Jamaica, land we love Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica, land we love
Teach us true respect for all Stir response to duty's call Strengthen us the weak to cherish Give us vision lest we perish Knowledge send us Heavenly Father Grant true wisdom from above Justice, truth be ours forever Jamaica, land we love Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica, land we love.
[Official as of July 1962]
To be more precise, the Jamaican Government has issued an official code for use with the National Anthem, a sort of guide or 'how to' piece, as follows:
All persons should stand at attention, (i.e., heels together) at the playing of the National Anthem and men should remove their hats.
The first verse of the National Anthem should be played or sung as specifically designated on the arrival of the Governor-General or the Prime Minister.
The National Anthem may be sung or played at public gatherings.
Singing of the National Anthem should form part of the ceremony of raising and lowering of the flag at the beginning and end of term in schools and at Independence celebrations.
There is also a National Pledge, mainly for Schools and other Educational institutions, for use at the beginning and end of the school term:
The Jamaican National Pledge
Before God and all mankind, I pledge the love and loyalty of my heart, the wisdom and courage of my mind, the strength and vigour of my body in the service of my fellow citizens; I promise to stand up for Justice, Brotherhood and Peace, to work diligently and creatively, to think generously and honestly, so that Jamaica may, under God, increase in beauty, fellowship and prosperity, and play her part in advancing the welfare of the whole human race.
Now you have the official versions. The Jamaica National Anthem you will probably be hearing a few times at future Olympic Games!
