Meaning of "Oh Bumbo Klaat" by Peter Tosh

The lyrics of "Oh Bumbo Klaat" delve into the themes of love, unity, and social change. Peter Tosh, a prominent Jamaican reggae musician and activist, uses powerful language to express his frustration and disappointment with the state of the world. The repetition of "Oh bumbo klaat, oh ras klaat" serves as a rhythmic chant, expressing his strong emotions.

In the first verse, Tosh states that he came to this world with the intention of guiding and teaching his fellow humans, but fails to understand why there is a lack of love for one another. This suggests his belief in the importance of unity and compassion among people. He then reflects on the lies and deception that he sees, pointing to the reason why children suffer. This highlights his concern for the younger generation and their well-being.

Tosh expresses a desire for change in the second verse, stating that it has been too long and that the existing system needs to be rearranged. He acknowledges that there will be obstacles in achieving this change, but emphasizes the need to overcome them by throwing them overboard. This conveys his determination and resilience in the face of adversity.

The final verse adds a spiritual element to the song. Tosh recounts a personal experience where he felt held down by an evil spirit, unable to speak. However, he is then guided by Jah, a term commonly used to refer to God in Rastafarianism, who instructs him to use the power of words. This indicates the belief in the transformative power of words and communication.

Overall, "Oh Bumbo Klaat" can be seen as a call to action, urging people to strive for love, unity, and social change. Tosh highlights the problems of lies and corruption in society and emphasizes the importance of overcoming obstacles. The spiritual aspect of the song suggests that faith and the power of words are essential in achieving freedom and liberation.