To everything there is a season. And apparently there was even a time for a songwriter to get inspiration for a song from the Bible. And a time for that song to be played on the radio.
But the songwriter turned the words and the message into lyrics.
And it didn’t work, for the rhythm and melody, to just say “To everything there is season.” So, a hook was added. With the same word “Turn” repeated three times. And since the hook played such a significant role in the song it only made sense to make that the title of the song.
Turn Turn Turn
The song was written by Pete Seeger, a folk singer, who first recorded it in 1959. But that recording wasn’t a hit. Well, maybe Pete’s fans and family loved it. But it didn’t become a bona fide hit until 1965. And that’s when Pete left it to the birds.
No wait. Make that The Byrds. And it was December 4, 1965 when the song went to number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Hey, what a coincidence! This is December 4th, too. (wry grin from me as the crowds roll their eyes)
According to the research I did, the song topped the chart for three weeks. And that’s pretty cool since it’s the number for God…just in case you’re interested in Biblical numerology.
Now, here’s what I’m gonna do. I’m gonna share the lyrics…well, actually the inspiration words for the song. And I’d like you to pay close attention. Because, remember, these words were written by King Solomon and inspired by God. And some of it isn’t about peace, love, and joy.
To everything there is a season
And there’s a time for every purpose under heaven.
A time to be born,
And a time to die;
A time to plant,
And a time to pluck what is planted;
A time to kill,
And a time to heal;
A time to break down,
And a time to build up;
A time to weep,
And a time to laugh;
A time to mourn,
And a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones,
And a time to gather stones;
A time to embrace,
And a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to gain,
And a time to lose;
A time to keep,
And a time to throw away;
A time to tear,
And a time to sew;
A time to keep silence,
And a time to speak;
A time to love,
And a time to hate;
A time of war,
And a time of peace.
Stay tuned,
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