Song meaning of A Star in the East by Harry Belafonte

"A Star in the East" by Harry Belafonte is a traditional Christmas carol that tells the story of the shepherds who followed the star to find the Savior's birthplace. The song emphasizes the theme of guidance and faith, urging the shepherds to rise up and follow the star that will lead them to the newborn Savior. The repetition of the phrase "Rise up shepherd and follow" throughout the song serves as a call to action, encouraging the shepherds to leave behind their worldly possessions and responsibilities to embark on a spiritual journey.

The lyrics "Leave your ewes and leave your lambs, Leave your sheep and leave your rams" symbolize the idea of letting go of material attachments and focusing on the spiritual significance of following the star. By leaving behind their flocks, the shepherds are able to fully commit themselves to following the divine guidance of the star of Bethlehem.

The chorus of the song, "Follow, follow, Rise up shepherd and follow, Follow the Star of Bethlehem, Rise up shepherd and follow," reinforces the message of following the path laid out by the star, which represents hope, salvation, and the promise of a new beginning. The repetition of the word "follow" emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's faith and trusting in the guidance of higher powers.

Overall, "A Star in the East" is a poignant and uplifting song that celebrates the spiritual journey of the shepherds and encourages listeners to reflect on the themes of faith, guidance, and the transformative power of following one's beliefs.