Rev. Wyatt Tee Walker taught that early slave spirituals were never just songs. They were layered communication systems. On the surface, they sounded like worship. To enslavers, they appeared harmless. But within the community, those same lyrics carried warnings, instructions, and quiet plans for freedom. “Steal Away” could signal a secret meeting. “Wade in the Water” warned of patrols and dogs. “Follow the Drinking Gourd” pointed toward the North Star. Faith was the safest language available. S