Shemhamforash

Behemoth's song 'Shemhamforash' is a powerful and provocative piece that delves into themes of destruction, blasphemy, and rebellion against religious orthodoxy. The title itself, 'Shemhamforash,' is a term often associated with invoking the name of God in mystical traditions, but here it is used in a context that suggests a perverse inversion of divine invocation. The lyrics are filled with vivid and violent imagery, painting a picture of a world consumed by fire and chaos.

The opening lines, 'Consumed by tongues ov fire / Burning like Phlegethon,' reference the river of fire in Greek mythology, symbolizing a purging and destructive force. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, which speaks of holy gardens reduced to ash and the extinguishing of hope. The imagery of fire and destruction is a metaphor for the band's rejection of religious dogma and the desire to see the end of days for such beliefs.

The repeated command to 'let the blood ov the infants flood the streets ov Bethelehem' and 'let the heads ov Samaritan pave my ways' is a stark and shocking call to violence, symbolizing a complete overthrow of religious and moral structures. This is further emphasized by the lines 'With ethics rotten in a moral cage / Dead meat thrown down to the worms,' which criticize the perceived hypocrisy and corruption within religious institutions. The song's refrain, 'Shemhamforash,' serves as a dark chant, reinforcing the theme of blasphemous rebellion.

Behemoth, known for their blackened death metal style, often explores themes of anti-religion, occultism, and existentialism in their music. 'Shemhamforash' is a quintessential example of their work, challenging listeners to confront uncomfortable truths and question established norms. The song's intense and aggressive tone, combined with its provocative lyrics, makes it a powerful statement against religious conformity and a call for radical change.