Introduction
“A Bible and a Belt” is a poignant song by the country duo Joey + Rory, featured on their 2012 album, His and Hers. The track delves into the intertwined themes of faith and discipline, reflecting on the upbringing of a child guided by both spiritual teachings and parental correction. The song was co-written by Rory Feek and Phillip Coleman.
The lyrics narrate the story of a young boy who initially perceives the Bible and the belt as separate entities—one for spiritual guidance and the other merely as a clothing accessory. However, as he matures, he discovers that the belt also serves as a tool for discipline, complementing the moral lessons imparted by the Bible. This duality emphasizes the balance between love and discipline in traditional parenting, highlighting how both elements work together to shape character and instill values.
Musically, the song is characterized by its simplicity and sincerity. Feek’s vocals, imbued with warmth and emotion, are accompanied by gentle acoustic instrumentation that creates an intimate and reflective atmosphere. The song’s production is understated, allowing the lyrics and Feek’s heartfelt delivery to take center stage.
“A Bible and a Belt” resonates with listeners who appreciate music that celebrates family, faith, and the enduring bonds of love. Feek’s poignant lyrics and sincere performance create a moving tribute to the legacy of fatherhood and the timeless values that shape our lives.
The song is a testament to Joey + Rory’s storytelling prowess, capturing the essence of rural life and the foundational role of faith and discipline in personal development. It stands as a reflective piece that honors the lessons passed down through generations, encapsulating the duo’s commitment to authentic and heartfelt country music.
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