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Introduction
Listening to Rory Feek’s “A Bible and a Belt” feels like sitting down with an old friend, reminiscing about the lessons that shaped our lives. Co-written by Rory Feek and James Slater, this song beautifully captures the balance between faith and discipline that many of us experienced growing up.
The lyrics paint vivid images of two leather-bound items: a well-worn Bible and a trusty belt. These objects symbolize the dual approach to parenting—imparting spiritual guidance through scripture and enforcing discipline when necessary. It’s a heartfelt nod to the upbringing that instilled respect, hard work, and moral values in many of us.
What makes this song resonate deeply is its authenticity. Rory reflects on his own childhood, sharing personal anecdotes that many can relate to—like the sting of a belt after telling a lie or the comfort of a Bible verse during tough times. It’s a reminder of the love and care behind each lesson, even if they came with a bit of tough love.
Musically, “A Bible and a Belt” stays true to Joey+Rory’s signature style—simple, acoustic arrangements that let the storytelling shine. Rory’s warm vocals make you feel like you’re right there with him, sharing stories on the front porch. It’s this simplicity and sincerity that make the song timeless.
In a world that’s constantly changing, “A Bible and a Belt” brings us back to the core values that remain steadfast. It’s a touching tribute to the parents and guardians who used both faith and discipline to guide us, and a gentle reminder of the importance of those lessons in today’s world.
Video
Lyrics
They were both made of leather
Both black and frayed and worn
I was brought up to respect them
Since the day that I was born
One came here from England
It’s been handed down for years
The other one was ordered from a catalogue at Sears
One my mama read to me ’til I was well into my teens
And I thought all the other one was for
Was to hold up daddy’s jeans
‘Til I told a lie and learned it had another purpose too
Out behind the shed, my daddy said
“This will hurt me more than you”
‘Cause one had my daddy’s name on it
The other said King James
With love they taught us lessons
But we feared them both the same
One led us to heaven
And the other left a welt
But those were the days when kids were raised
With a Bible and a belt
I remember when I was twelve
I stole a dime store comic book
And how mama read where the scripture said to take back what I took
When I refused, my daddy grabbed arm and said “come on”
I needed more he knew than just Matthew, Mark, Luke and John
Well, sometimes it made me cry
Sometimes it made me fighting mad
And I’d wish I’d been raised without them
Like some other children had
But now I’m grown with kids of my own and I know just how they felt
You know it seems to me that what the world still needs
Is a Bible and a belt
‘Cause one had my daddy’s name on it
The other said King James
With love they taught us lessons
But we feared them both the same
One led us to heaven
And the other hurt like hell
But those were the days when kids were raised
With a Bible and a belt
A Bible and a belt