Lyrics Page
Shores Of Jordan
652 views
Aug 12, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Merle Haggard's 'Shores of Jordan' is a reflective country gospel song about facing life's uncertainties with faith and hope. The narrator looks to heaven for answers but finds peace in trusting God's plan, choosing to 'dance the shores of Jordan' until angels carry him home. He observes others' struggles, including prisoners and a weary traveler, and finds comfort in the belief that no tear is wasted. The song emphasizes living joyfully and lightly, ready to cross the river Jordan when called, reflecting a confident hope in heaven and God's care.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team
I looked up into heaven thought I'd solve life's mysteries
I observed the constellations for a clue to my destiny
But the rhyme of life confounds me, things will be as they will be
So I'll just dance the shores of Jordan 'til the angels carry me
Gonna let my feet go dancing to my very favorite song
'Cause I know my time for leaving is bound to come before too long
And there ain't no way of me knowing how tomorrow's gonna be
So I'll just dance the shores of Jordan 'til the angels carry me
I traveled to a prison saw my share of shattered dreams
Were the tables slightly tilted, I could be bound, they could be free
But I believe no tear goes wasted and so I fell there on my knees
Vowed I'd dance the shores of Jordan 'til the angels carried me
I'm gonna let my feet go dancing to my very favorite songs
'Cause I know my time for leaving is bound to come before too long
Now there ain't no way of me knowing how tomorrow's gonna be
So I'll just dance the shores of Jordan 'til the angels carry me
I saw a weary traveller heading down a dusty road
And I said, "Friend, may I help you, seems you haul a heavy load"
But he said, "Though my burden's heavy, in my heart I'm travelling light
So I can cross old river Jordan when I'm called to the other side"
I'm gonna let my feet go dancing to my very favorite songs
'Cause I know my time for leaving is bound to come before too long
Ain't no way of me knowing how tomorrow's gonna be
So I'll just dance the shores of Jordan 'til the angels carry me
I'll just dance the shores of Jordan 'til the angels carry me, carry me