The lyrics of "Gethsemane, Again" reflect on the hypocrisy and commercialism present in a religious event at Gloucester Cathedral, contrasting the ostentatious displays and materialism with the teachings of Jesus Christ. The narrator observes various facets of the event, from wealthy attendees to the portrayal of religious figures in LPs and photos, ultimately questioning the authenticity of their faith.

Meaning of "Gethsemane, Again" by Al Stewart

"Gethsemane, Again" critiques the paradoxical nature of organized religion, where the sacred and the profane intertwine in a spectacle that seems detached from the core teachings of compassion and humility that Jesus exemplified. The juxtaposition of the opulence at the flower show with the image of Jesus crying in the rain alludes to the idea of faith being lost amidst the materialism and hypocrisy of the Church. The narrator's observations of fake appearances, failed confessions, and the stark reality of mortality symbolize the disconnect between the religious institution and the message of genuine kindness and charity that religion should embody. By mentioning Christ in the ruins and his interactions with the marginalized, the song emphasizes the essence of Christianity being rooted in empathy and connection with humanity, rather than rituals and displays of wealth. Ultimately, "Gethsemane, Again" serves as a reflection on the disillusionment with organized religion and a call to return to the true essence of spirituality through genuine acts of love and understanding.