Lyrics: He Is Your Brother
I was a fighter always looking for trouble And my life was so empty, there was nothing left to live for But then it happened one night as I got into a fight I could hear someone saying as though he was praying Ah-a-ah-a-a-a-ah-ah Treat him well, he is your brother You might need his help some day We depend on one another Love him, that's the only way On the road (on the road) that we're going We all need (we all need) words of comfort and compassion Treat him well, he is your brother Love him, that's the only way I was a woman never thinking of others And my life was so lonely, didn't care for anybody But then I happened to meet a begging man in the street As I turned down his praying I heard someone saying Ah-a-ah-a-a-a-ah-ah Treat him well, he is your brother (brother) You might need his help one day (he's your brother) We depend on one another (brother) Love him, that's the only way On the road (on the road) that we're going (that we're going) We all need (we all need) words of comfort and compassion Treat him well, he is your brother (brother) Love him, that's the only way. Treat him well, he is your brother (brother) You might need his help one day (he's your brother) We depend on one another (brother) Love him, that's the only way [repeat and fade]
Understanding the Message of “He Is Your Brother”
A Song About Empathy and Unity
“He Is Your Brother” by ABBA is a heartfelt anthem that encourages listeners to see the importance of compassion and solidarity. The song’s narrative follows two characters—a fighter and a lonely woman—each living a life devoid of connection and empathy. Through their transformative encounters, both realize the value of caring for others and the profound truth that everyone is interconnected.
Personal Transformation and Compassion
The lyrics begin with the fighter, whose life is filled with emptiness and conflict. In a pivotal moment, he hears a voice reminding him to treat others well, emphasizing that “he is your brother.” This refrain serves as a gentle, persistent reminder that love and understanding are the only ways to bridge the gaps between people. The woman’s story mirrors this journey, highlighting how an act of kindness to a stranger can open one’s heart to empathy.
The Power of Mutual Support
Throughout the song, ABBA underscores the importance of relying on one another. Lines like “We depend on one another” and “You might need his help one day” speak to the universal need for support and the unpredictability of life. The repeated call to “love him, that’s the only way” is both a plea and a lesson—emphasizing that love is the foundation of true brotherhood and community.
A Timeless Call for Kindness
With its uplifting melody and sincere lyrics, “He Is Your Brother” delivers a message that remains as relevant today as when it was first released. It reminds us that every person we encounter is a potential source of comfort, wisdom, and support—and that by treating each other with kindness, we make the world a better place for all.
Song Credits
- Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
- Release Year: 1972
- Label: Polar Music