A debate over culture, language, and worship has erupted on Liberian social media after Gospel Minister Pst. Robert Anointed Powoe used CIC’s hit song “Congratulations” during a church service, sparking discussions about whether the song’s references to God as “Papay” and “Zor” are appropriate expressions of worship.
The conversation gained more attention after Reverend Alvin Clarke, a pastor and man of God, shared his perspective on the song and its lyrics, arguing that the terms used to describe God should reflect the holiness and uniqueness of the Creator.
Reverend Alvin Clarke’s Position
In a widely shared Facebook post, Rev. Clarke stated that God should not be addressed using expressions commonly associated with human beings.
“God is not papay. God is not zor,” Clarke wrote, arguing that although the song may have been created from a place of worship and gratitude, the terms used do not appropriately represent God’s nature.
He referenced the biblical name YHWH (Yahweh), explaining that it carries deep spiritual significance and was treated with great reverence in ancient Israel. According to Clarke, the sacredness associated with God’s name shows why worship should avoid using ordinary titles associated with human authority.
Clarke argued that “Papay” and “Zor” are terms used to describe people of importance and should not be applied to God. He further stated that CIC’s “Congratulations” should be considered a secular song rather than a worship song because of its use of those expressions.
CIC Defends the Lyrics
CIC later responded to Rev. Clarke’s comments, defending the cultural meaning behind the words used in the song.
According to the musician, “Papay” is a Liberian Koloqua expression for father, while “Zor” represents greatness and supremacy.
“God is PAPAY… The Bible clearly placed God as the FATHER,” CIC stated, referencing 1 Corinthians 8:6.
He added that Liberians should be able to express worship through their own language and culture.
“We are Liberians and our pigeon is Koloqua not Latin nor Hebrew,” CIC said, while criticizing Clarke’s interpretation of the lyrics.
Disagreement Over the Meaning of “Papay”
Rev. Clarke later disputed CIC’s explanation of the word “Papay,” arguing that the term does not carry the respectful meaning being attributed to it.
He claimed the word became associated with disrespect during Liberia’s civil war, saying rebels used it toward elderly people they mistreated rather than as a term of honor.
Public Reaction
The disagreement has sparked mixed reactions from Liberians online, with some supporting Rev. Clarke’s argument for maintaining reverence in worship, while others believe cultural expressions and local languages have a place in praising God.
Ayouba Turay compared the criticism of CIC’s song to the acceptance of Nigerian gospel songs that use Nigerian Pidgin and street expressions. He questioned why local expressions from other African countries are accepted in worship music while Liberian Koloqua expressions face criticism.
Other commentators argued that the Bible itself uses different titles for God, including Father, Lord, King, and Shepherd, and that worship is not limited to one language.
Sokoloko King said the focus should be on the meaning and sincerity behind the words, arguing that God is worshiped by people from every language and culture.
A Wider Debate About Liberian Worship Music
The controversy surrounding “Congratulations” has sparked a larger conversation about the role of Liberian culture and language in faith-based music.
Supporters of CIC believe the song reflects a local way of expressing gratitude to God using words familiar to Liberians. Critics believe some expressions may not carry the level of reverence required for worship.
The discussion now goes beyond one song and raises a bigger question: Can cultural expressions and everyday language be used to worship God, or are some words too informal for sacred spaces?
