By being one of the first bands to blend anarcho-punk and heavy metal music, Amebix are often cited as one of the key bands that helped to create the crust punk style, and are considered as a proto-thrash metal band. Such notable bands as Sepultura, Neurosis, and Deviated Instinct have paid homage.
The Messenger
Amebix Lyrics
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Baraka
Baraka
Baraka
This is the work, the Wise man will see
Thrice great Hermes, we call to thee
Distillation, revelation, look within, fire!
We saw the light, we saw the light, Matter!
Between the moon and the sun, the moon and the sun
Oh Ouroborous, surround us
The Lion consuming the sun
This is the work, the great work
Conjiunctionis Mysterium
We saw the light, we saw the light, Matter!
Between the moon and the sun, the moon and the sun
Baraka
Baraka
Baraka
Baraka
We saw the light, we saw the light, Matter!
Between the moon and the sun, the moon and the sun
The song "The Messenger" by Amebix is a mysterious, esoteric track that incorporates elements of alchemy, occultism, and ancient symbolism. The opening lines of the song chant the word "Baraka" several times, which is a term that means "blessing" in Arabic and is also used to refer to a type of spiritual energy that flows through all things. This word serves as a kind of incantation that sets the stage for the rest of the song.
The lyrics then reference the work of the Greek god Hermes Trismegistus, who was known as the "Three Times Great," and is often associated with alchemy and spiritual wisdom. The lines "Distillation, revelation, look within, fire!" invoke the alchemical process of distilling substances to their purest form in order to reveal hidden truths. The song then invokes other symbols, such as the Ouroboros (a serpent that eats its own tail and represents the cyclical nature of existence) and the Lion (which is often used to symbolize the sun or fire).
Overall, the song seems to be a meditation on the spiritual journey, and the quest for enlightenment and understanding. The repeated phrase "We saw the light" suggests that the singer has had a revelation or moment of awakening, and is now seeing the world in a new way. The imagery and symbols in the song hint at a deeper, mystical meaning that is open to interpretation.
Line by Line Meaning
This is the work, the Wise man will see
The work being referred to is something that only a wise man can recognize.
Thrice great Hermes, we call to thee
Hermes, known for distillation and revelation, is being invoked three times.
Distillation, revelation, look within, fire!
Distilling and revealing requires looking within oneself and utilizing one's inner passion and drive.
We saw the light, we saw the light, Matter!
They saw the light and what truly matters.
Between the moon and the sun, the moon and the sun
The light they saw was in the space between the moon and the sun.
Oh Ouroborous, surround us
Ouroborous, the symbol of a serpent or dragon eating its own tail, is being called upon for protection and renewal.
The Lion consuming the sun
The powerful image of a lion consuming the sun is evoked, possibly representing the cycle of life and death.
This is the work, the great work
The work being done is not just any work, but the great work.
Conjiunctionis Mysterium
The mystery of conjunction is alluded to, possibly referring to the merging of opposites.
Contributed by Carter C. Suggest a correction in the comments below.