Meaning of "Zion & Babylon" by Josh Garrels
The lyrics of "Zion & Babylon" delve deeply into themes of materialism, injustice, and the internal struggle between selfish desires and a longing for selflessness and love. The speaker reflects on the toxic nature of Babylon, symbolic of a society obsessed with consumerism and self-gratification at the cost of others' suffering. The mention of building a kingdom with the blood of slaves and forsaking love for wealth highlights the destructive nature of prioritizing material gain over human connection and compassion. On the contrary, Zion represents a utopian ideal of harmony, love, and true connection with others and with the divine. The speaker recognizes their own faults and the pull of Babylon, but ultimately yearns for a life guided by selfless love and faith. The call to leave behind material possessions, help the poor, and embrace humility speaks to a radical transformation and a rejection of the world's values in favor of a deeper spiritual connection and a life of love. The lyrics convey a message of hope, redemption, and the possibility of transcending the limitations of a materialistic world in favor of a more meaningful and loving existence.