The linguistic conversion of the words to the popular song “Jerusalema” into the English language is a process that allows non-Zulu and non-South African language speakers to comprehend the song’s message. As an illustration, the phrase “Jerusalema ikhaya lami” translates to “Jerusalem is my home.” This conversion facilitates a deeper understanding and appreciation for the song’s spiritual and cultural significance.
The importance of rendering the songs words in English stems from its widespread global appeal. The accessibility of the lyrics in a globally understood language removes linguistic barriers, thereby broadening the song’s emotional and cultural impact. Historically, translations of artistic works have played a crucial role in fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting the appreciation of diverse artistic expressions. This specific rendition allows the universal themes within the music to resonate with a larger audience, regardless of their linguistic background.