What your hands do
It’s your own eyes that’ve seen
So won’t you judge your actions
To make sure the results are clean?
It’s your own conscience
That is gonna remind you
That it’s your heart and nobody else’s
That is gonna judge
Be not selfish in your doings:
Pass it on. (Pass it on, children)
Help your brothers (help them) in their needs:
Pass it on
Live for yourself and you will live in vain
Live for others, you will live again
In the kingdom of Jah
Man shall reign
Pass it on
Pass it on
Pass it on
Pass it on
What’s in the darkness
Must be revealed to light
We’re not here to judge what’s good from bad
But to do the things that are right
On a hot, sunny day
Follow the shadows for rescue
But as the day grows old
I know the sun is gonna find you
Be not selfish in your doings:
Pass it on
Help your brothers in their needs:
Pass it on
Live for yourself, you will live in vain
Live for others, you will live again
In the kingdom of Jah
Man shall reign
Pass it on
Pass it on
Pass it on
Pass it on. (Pass it on)
A Message of Selflessness and Unity
Bob Marley’s “Pass It On” delivers a timeless message about the importance of selflessness and collective upliftment. The lyrics encourage listeners to examine their actions through their own eyes and conscience, urging them to act with integrity. Marley advises against selfishness, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from helping others and sharing one’s blessings. The repeated phrase “Pass it on” serves as a call to action, inspiring listeners to extend kindness, support, and understanding throughout their communities. The song suggests that living for others leads to a more meaningful life, and that in the “kingdom of Jah,” unity and righteousness will ultimately prevail.
Song Credits
Artist: Bob Marley
Songwriters: Bob Marley
Release Year: 1973
Label: Tuff Gong