Mãos

In his song 'Mãos,' Zeca Pagodinho delves into the symbolic and literal significance of hands, exploring themes of power, corruption, and justice. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of how hands, which can be instruments of love and honesty, are often corrupted by greed and malfeasance. Pagodinho laments the scarcity of 'honest hands' and 'loving hands,' suggesting that such virtues are becoming rare in a world dominated by deceit and self-interest.

The song criticizes the judicial system, highlighting how 'the hands of bachelors' fail to condemn evil and instead acquit the guilty in exchange for money. This imagery underscores the pervasive corruption within institutions that are supposed to uphold justice. The reference to 'hands of infidels' that manipulate fraudulent directives further emphasizes the betrayal of moral and ethical standards. Pagodinho calls for justice to 'put its hands on its conscience,' urging a return to integrity and fairness.

Pagodinho also draws a parallel between contemporary injustices and historical events, such as Pontius Pilate washing his hands to absolve himself of responsibility and the failure of the Tower of Babel, which symbolizes humanity's hubris in defying divine will. By invoking these powerful metaphors, Pagodinho underscores the timeless nature of these issues, suggesting that the misuse of power and the failure to uphold justice are age-old problems that continue to plague society. Through 'Mãos,' Pagodinho not only critiques the present but also calls for a collective introspection and a return to moral righteousness.