How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #4
Out from the gloomy past,
Till now we stand at last
Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast (19-21)
The speakers have made it through a "gloomy past"—a past full of suffering. They're not quite at the finish line yet, but the imagery of the gleaming white star suggests that things are looking up for them.
Quote #5
Shadowed beneath Thy hand,
May we forever stand (30-31)
The speakers refer to being "shadowed," or protected, by God in these lines. They want God to help them "forever stand," or to live in dignity and freedom. The hope that they'll be standing "forever" also suggests the speakers' faith in perseverance.