Gehet hin und vermehret euch

Udo Jürgens' song "Gehet hin und vermehret euch" serves as a poignant critique of the rapid population growth and its implications on our planet. The lyrics begin by highlighting the alarming rate at which the global population is increasing, with 300,000 new people added daily. Jürgens uses stark statistics to emphasize the urgency of the situation, noting that more people are born each month than the entire population of New York City. This sets the stage for a broader discussion on the unsustainable nature of such growth.

The song delves into the paradox of population growth being most rapid in the poorest regions, where resources are already scarce. Jürgens points out that it is not wars, diseases, or natural disasters that are the primary threats to our environment, but rather humanity's own actions. The lyrics criticize the lack of awareness and action from those in power, who act as if the planet's resources are infinite. The repeated phrase "Gehet hin und vermehret euch" ("Go forth and multiply") is used ironically, highlighting the disconnect between religious or cultural imperatives to reproduce and the practical realities of overpopulation.

Jürgens also touches on the societal and political aspects of this issue, critiquing the media's celebration of population milestones and the reluctance of influential figures to promote birth control. The song suggests that without a change in mindset and policy, humanity is headed towards a future where resources are insufficient for survival. The imagery of the earth bursting at the seams and the devil's hand in the chaos underscores the dire consequences of unchecked population growth. Ultimately, "Gehet hin und vermehret euch" is a call to action, urging listeners to reconsider their role in shaping the future of our planet.