The Nigerian singer Seyi Shay ignited a debate surrounding the continued use of traditional hymns in contemporary church services, prompting a broader discussion on the historical context of these songs and their relevance in modern worship. Shay’s departure from her former church stemmed from a shift away from contemporary gospel music towards a more traditional, hymn-based and scripture-only service. This change prompted her to publicly question the practice, highlighting the potentially problematic origins of some hymns and their association with the era of slavery. Her central argument revolves around the discomfort and dissonance she feels singing hymns potentially penned by slave owners, songs that were possibly forced upon enslaved Africans as a form of control and indoctrination.
Shay’s critique emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical baggage that accompanies certain hymns. She argues that blindly accepting and perpetuating these songs without acknowledging their potentially painful origins can hinder genuine worship and spiritual growth. She underscores the irony of finding spiritual solace and blessing in songs that may have been instruments of oppression and trauma for ancestors. Her call to “do your research” underscores the need for critical engagement with the materials used in worship and encourages a deeper understanding of the historical context surrounding these practices. This, she argues, is crucial for fostering a more authentic and meaningful connection with faith.
While acknowledging that not all hymns are tainted by this history, Shay’s concern lies in the potential prevalence of such songs within the traditional hymnody. She emphasizes the need for discernment and awareness, urging congregations to examine the origins of the hymns they sing to ensure their worship is not inadvertently perpetuating a legacy of oppression. This call for scrutiny extends beyond simply identifying hymns with problematic origins to understanding the broader context in which they were created and used. This nuanced approach recognizes the complex history of hymns, acknowledging that some may have offered solace and hope to enslaved people while simultaneously being used as tools of control.
As an alternative to potentially problematic hymns, Shay suggests composing original praise and worship songs grounded in scripture. This proposition allows for a fresh expression of faith, unburdened by the historical baggage of traditional hymns. By creating new music, congregations can actively engage with scripture and develop a more personal and meaningful connection to their faith. This approach also empowers individuals and communities to shape their worship experiences, reflecting their contemporary understanding of faith while remaining rooted in scriptural teachings. Such a practice could foster a more dynamic and relevant expression of spirituality within the church.
Furthermore, Shay’s suggestion fosters a sense of ownership and agency within the act of worship. Creating new music allows individuals to actively participate in the development of their spiritual expression, moving beyond the passive reception of traditional forms. This active engagement can deepen understanding and connection with faith, as individuals invest their own creativity and reflection into the songs they sing. This participatory approach to worship can also foster a stronger sense of community, as individuals collaborate to create music that reflects their shared beliefs and experiences.
In essence, Seyi Shay’s commentary serves as a catalyst for a crucial conversation about the role of history, awareness, and authenticity in contemporary worship. Her critique of traditional hymns is not a wholesale rejection of the practice but rather a call for critical engagement and thoughtful consideration of the songs used in worship. Her suggestion to create original music offers a pathway towards a more personalized and meaningful expression of faith, empowering individuals and communities to shape their worship experiences in a way that resonates with their contemporary understanding of spirituality while remaining grounded in the timeless wisdom of scripture. This conversation, spurred by Shay’s observations, has the potential to lead to a more informed, conscious, and ultimately more enriching worship experience for individuals and communities alike.
