Benjamin Spider
There is something extraordinary about harmony when sisters sing. In this video, The Wagler Sisters, Crystal, Marilyn, and Emily, sing a gorgeous rendition of “Down in the River to Pray.”
The lyrics are relatively simple but give some beautiful pictures of faith.
“As I went down in the river to pray
Studying about that good ol’ way
And who shall wear the starry crown
Good Lord, show me the way
O sisters, let’s go down
Let’s go down, come on down
O sisters, let’s go down
Down in the river to pray.”
Though this may sound something like southern gospel or bluegrass, believe it or not, this song is likely an African-American spiritual believed to be written by an enslaved African-American. The lyrics make a bit more sense from that perspective, as enslaved people actually went into the river to be baptized.
Even more noteworthy is that when slaves would flee their masters, they would often walk in the water to throw off the dogs’ tracking them.
The song has come a long way and spread to the world, even more by the angelic voices of these Amish sisters. The ladies wear bonnets and dress modestly as they sit and sing in their kitchen.
The simplicity and chemistry between these ladies are mesmerizing to watch and to listen to. It’s no wonder their videos have been shared millions of times.
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