Ezekiel Saw de Wheel
Full Chorus
African American Spiritual
Arranged by William L. Dawson
About This Spiritual
"Ezekiel Saw the Wheel" is a powerful African American spiritual based on the biblical vision of the prophet Ezekiel. The wheels symbolize the mighty hand of God moving through history and through the lives of believers. This spiritual expresses faith in divine providence and the certainty of God's presence. Its rhythmic vitality and spiritual power have made it beloved across generations.
Lyrics
Opening Chorus:
Ezekul saw de wheel,
'Way up in de mid'l of de air;
De big wheel run by faith,
An' de lit'l wheel run by the grace of God,
A litlo wheel in a wheel,
'Way in do mid'l of de air,
Verse 1:
Better mind my brother
How you walk en de cross,
Your foot may slip,
An' yer soul get lost.
Verse 2:
Ole Sa'tan wears a club foot shoe,
If you don' mind he'll slip it on you.
Chorus:
Ezekul saw de wheel,
Way up in de mid'l of de air.
De big wheel run by faith,
An' de lit'le wheel run by de grace of God,
A wheel in a wheel,
Way in de mid'l of de air.
Verse 3:
Some go to church for to sing an' shout,
Hailelu, hallelu, halleluah!
Befo' six months dey's all tuned out
'Way in de mid'l of de air,
Final Chorus:
Ezekul saw de wheel,
'Way in de mid'l of de air,
De big wheel run by faith,
An' de lit'le wheel run by de grace of God,
A wheel in a wheel,
Way in de mid'l of de air.
Biblical Connection
Based on Ezekiel 1, where the prophet describes his vision of God's throne supported by wheels within wheels. The wheels represent God's eternal nature and sovereignty over all creation.
Spiritual Meaning
The "big wheel" represents God's sovereignty and power, while the "little wheel" symbolizes human faith and God's grace. Together, they represent the complete dependence on God's will.
Performance Tips
- • Tempo: Moderato with rhythmic drive
- • Character: Powerful, steadfast, and spiritually profound
- • Rhythm: Pay attention to the syncopation and call-and-response patterns
- • Dynamics: Build momentum and energy throughout
- • Interpretation: Sing with conviction and deep spiritual conviction