This Little Light of Mine: Lyrics, History, and Meaning
"This Little Light of Mine" is a beloved children's song, simple in its melody and message yet profound in its impact. Its enduring popularity stems from its uplifting theme of sharing one's faith and inner light with the world. While a definitive single author is debated, its enduring legacy as a hymn and spiritual song continues to shine brightly.
This post will explore the lyrics, delve into its history, and examine the meaning behind this cherished song. We'll also address some frequently asked questions surrounding the song's origins and usage.
What are the lyrics to "This Little Light of Mine"?
The most common version of the lyrics goes like this:
(Verse 1) This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine. This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine. This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine. Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.
(Verse 2) Hide it under a bushel? No! Hide it under a bushel? No! Hide it under a bushel? No! I'm gonna let it shine.
(Verse 3) (Often added) Let your little light shine. Let your little light shine. Let your little light shine. Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.
Note: Variations in lyrics exist, particularly in the second verse, with some versions using phrases like "I'm gonna let it shine" instead of "I'm going to let it shine." The core message, however, remains consistent.
Who wrote "This Little Light of Mine"?
The origins of "This Little Light of Mine" are somewhat obscure. There's no single definitive composer or lyricist widely acknowledged. It's believed to be a spiritual song with roots in African American spirituals, passed down through oral tradition. This explains the variance in lyrical phrasing. The tune is simple and memorable, contributing to its easy transmission and widespread adoption.
Some researchers believe elements of the song predate the 20th century, reflecting its deep connections to gospel and spiritual traditions. Its development likely involved a communal process, with contributions and modifications from numerous individuals and communities over time.
When was "This Little Light of Mine" written?
Pinpointing the exact date of the song's composition is impossible due to its oral tradition origins. However, its widespread use and documented appearance in songbooks and publications suggests its rise to prominence in the early to mid-20th century, possibly linked to the Civil Rights Movement, where its message of hope and resilience resonated powerfully.
What is the meaning of "This Little Light of Mine"?
The song's central metaphor is powerful and simple: the "little light" represents each individual's unique gifts, talents, faith, and positive attributes. The act of "letting it shine" signifies sharing these qualities with others, illuminating the world around us. The refusal to "hide it under a bushel" emphasizes the importance of sharing one's light without reservation.
It's a call to action, a reminder to actively contribute to the greater good, to be a force for positive change, and to share one's inner strength and faith. This message resonates deeply with children and adults alike, promoting optimism, generosity, and spiritual growth. It's a song that empowers and inspires.
Is there a PDF version of the lyrics?
While I cannot provide a PDF directly (as per the guidelines), you can easily create one yourself. Copy the lyrics provided above into a word processor like Microsoft Word or Google Docs, format it as you desire, and then save it as a PDF file. Many online tools are available to convert text files to PDFs as well.
The enduring appeal of "This Little Light of Mine" lies in its simplicity, its inspiring message, and its ability to transcend cultural and generational boundaries. It remains a cherished song that continues to uplift and inspire across the globe.
