Lyrics
On a hill far away
Refers to a distant hill where a significant event took place.
Stood an old rugged cross
Describes an old, weathered cross standing on the hill.
The emblem of suffering and shame
Characterizes the cross as a symbol of suffering and shame.
And I love that old cross
Expresses affection for the old cross.
Where the dearest and best
Highlights the cross as the place where the dearest and best were sacrificed.
For a world of lost sinners was slain
Explains that the sacrifice on the cross was for a world of lost sinners.
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Declares the intent to cherish the old rugged cross.
Till my trophies at last I lay down
Commits to holding onto the cross until personal achievements are surrendered.
I will cling to the old rugged cross
Affirms a commitment to cling to the old rugged cross.
And exchange it someday for a crown
Anticipates exchanging the cross for a crown in the future.
Oh that old rugged cross
Reiterates the reference to the despised old rugged cross.
So despised by the world
Notes the world's disdain for the cross.
Has a wondrous attraction for me
Acknowledges a personal attraction to the despised cross.
For the dear Lamb of God
Identifies the cross as the place where the Lamb of God made a sacrifice.
Left his glory above
States that the Lamb of God left glory to bear the cross on Calvary.
To bear it on dark Calvary
Emphasizes the significant event of bearing the cross on Calvary.
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Repeats the commitment to cherish the old rugged cross.
Till my trophies at last I lay down
Reiterates the idea of laying down personal achievements.
I will cling to the old rugged cross
Restates the commitment to cling to the old rugged cross.
And exchange it someday for a crown
Reaffirms the anticipation of exchanging the cross for a crown.
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Reiterates the commitment to cherish the old rugged cross.
Till my trophies at last I lay down
Repeats the idea of laying down personal achievements.
I will cling to the old rugged cross
Reiterates the commitment to cling to the old rugged cross.
And exchange it someday for a crown
Reaffirms the anticipation of exchanging the cross for a crown.
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