Meaning of "Baba" by Alanis Morissette

The lyrics of "Baba" offer a scathing critique of blind devotion to a spiritual leader and the inherent dangers of cult-like practices. Morissette exposes the pseudo-spiritual chicanery and manipulation that takes place within such organizations. She observes how individuals kneel with bated breath, eagerly seeking an elevated state of being, yet only fall prey to false promises and superficial rituals. The pursuit of nirvana becomes a form of escape, leading followers to abandon their families and responsibilities. Morissette questions the validity of this quest, highlighting the sleep-like state in which the followers find themselves. Through lines like "How long will this take, Baba?" and "How much will this cost, guru?" she addresses the nature of enlightenment as a transaction; something that can be achieved with a certain amount of time and money. It unveils the materialistic nature of these practices, reducing spiritual growth to a marketable commodity. The repetition of "How long will this take?" and "How much longer till you completely absolve me?" emphasizes the followers' desperation for validation and absolution from this spiritual leader. The lyrics also criticize the followers who blindly repeat teachings without truly understanding or embodying them. There is a sense of irony as Morissette observes the students boasting about their robes and exotic beads, showcasing a superficial righteousness that lacks genuine compassion. Ultimately, Morissette exposes the guru's complicity in this masquerade, smiling as students bow to kiss his feet. The lyrics capture the detrimental consequences of blind devotion and highlight the need for critical thinking and self-reflection when engaging with spiritual practices.