False Prophets

Lucky Dube's song 'False Prophets' is a powerful critique of religious hypocrisy and the deceitful nature of some who claim to be spiritual leaders. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of individuals who outwardly display their piety by carrying Bibles and attending church regularly, yet their actions betray their true intentions. Dube highlights the discrepancy between their proclaimed faith and their actual behavior, suggesting that these so-called Christians are not living up to the teachings of Jesus Christ. This theme is underscored by the repeated reference to 'false prophets,' a term that evokes biblical warnings about those who mislead others under the guise of religious authority.

The chorus, with its stark declaration of 'False prophets, lies, and elution,' serves as a powerful indictment of these deceptive figures. The use of the word 'elution'—likely a variation of 'illusion'—emphasizes the falsehoods and misleading nature of these individuals. Dube's lyrics suggest that these false prophets are exploiting their followers and distorting the true message of Christianity for their gain. The repetition of the phrase 'Jesus, I wanna be like you' contrasts the genuine desire to emulate Christ with the hollow proclamations of the false prophets, highlighting the gap between true faith and mere pretense.

Culturally, the song resonates with broader themes of disillusionment with institutional religion and the search for authentic spirituality. Dube's critique is not just limited to individual behavior but extends to the systemic issues within religious institutions, often referred to as 'Babylon' in Rastafarian culture. By rejecting the 'Babylon style,' Dube aligns himself with a tradition of resistance against oppressive systems and calls for a return to genuine, heartfelt spirituality. The song's message is a call to discernment, urging listeners to look beyond outward appearances and seek the true essence of faith and righteousness.