The lyrics describe how death comes knocking on various people's doors, including the narrator's mother, sister, brother, neighbour, and preacher. Each time, the person being called by death stoops down, buckles up their shoes, and moves on down by the Jordan stream, shouting "Hallelujah! Done, done my duty! Got on my travelin' shoes" before departing.

Meaning of "Death Came A-Knockin'" by Ruthie Foster

The lyrics of "Death Came A-Knockin'" by Ruthie Foster evoke a sense of inevitability and acceptance towards death. Each time death comes knocking on someone's door, they acknowledge its call with a sense of readiness and duty. The repetition of the ritual of stooping down, buckling shoes, and heading towards the Jordan stream symbolizes a universal journey that all individuals must undertake at the end of their lives. The mention of the Jordan stream resonates with biblical references to crossing over into the afterlife. The acceptance and even celebration of death in the lyrics reflect a deep spiritual connection and readiness to face the ultimate unknown. Ultimately, the song conveys a message of embracing mortality with grace and faith.