Når Sjelen Hentes Til Helvete (translation)

Dimmu Borgir's 'Når Sjelen Hentes Til Helvete' (translated as 'When the Soul is Taken to Hell') is a powerful and provocative piece that delves into themes of darkness, rebellion, and anti-religious sentiment. The song's lyrics invite listeners to follow a path through a hall of evil, guided by an inverted cross, a symbol often associated with Satanism and opposition to Christian beliefs. This journey is not just physical but also metaphorical, representing a departure from conventional morality and an embrace of darker, more primal instincts.

The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and strong language, such as 'On the flesh of Christ we spit / Let it rot!' This line is a direct affront to Christian symbols and beliefs, suggesting a complete rejection of the religion's values. The act of spitting on the flesh of Christ and letting it rot symbolizes the decay and disappearance of goodness, as perceived by the song's narrators. This is further emphasized by the phrase 'A play that is ended,' indicating that the time for Christian morality and goodness has come to an end in the world they envision.

The song also calls for the expression of inner anger and hatred, urging listeners to 'Bring forth our inner anger! / Show the way for our hatred!' This intense emotional release is directed towards God's souls, wishing them eternal suffering in a 'paradise of evil.' This stark contrast between the traditional concept of paradise and the 'paradise of evil' underscores the band's embrace of dark themes and their desire to invert conventional religious narratives. Dimmu Borgir, known for their symphonic black metal style, often explores such themes, blending aggressive music with complex, thought-provoking lyrics that challenge societal norms and religious dogma.