One Gun
Lamb of God Lyrics

The song “One Gun” by Lamb of God, released in 2006, delves into the theme of sacrifice and martyrdom. The first verse highlights the paradoxical nature of war and violence where a patriot (someone willing to sacrifice their life for their country) chooses to kill for justice. The line “unknowing tyrant walks to the rope” suggests the tyrants they are fighting against are not aware of their wrongdoings or are ignorant of the consequences awaiting them. The chorus that follows, bearing the line“the sins of deliverance,” indicates that sometimes people commit grave sins to achieve what they believe to be a noble cause. The singer, speaking to the fallen soldiers as martyrs, promises their name will be hallowed for their sacrifice.

The second verse presents religious allusions, specifically to atonement, confession, and the crucifixion of Christ. This verse hints at the idea that every soldier's sacrifice serves as a form of atonement for the sins of their fathers or ancestors that led to the war. The line “created in hatred, a noose for your neck” signifies that the violence begets violence cycle will inevitably lead to the downfall of the oppressors as they had created the source of violence themselves.

Overall, the song creates an atmosphere of tension and moral ambiguity, where the singer acknowledges the cost of war and violence, but attempts to justify the sacrifice of fallen soldiers, thereby honoring their sacrifice.