Meaning of "Holy" by PVRIS

The lyrics of "Holy" delve into the theme of hypocrisy and the disconnection between one's external image and internal reality. The artist criticizes individuals who portray themselves as righteous and holy but lack true substance and conviction. The repeated reference to being a "poor unfortunate soul" highlights the emptiness and loneliness that can result from living a life based on appearances and superficiality.

The song addresses the idea of religious hypocrisy, pointing out that simply calling out sins and claiming faith does not bring one closer to God. The protagonist recognizes the contradiction between the person's words and actions, suggesting that their faith is insincere and driven by personal gain or fear rather than genuine belief.

The line, "You're just a ghost at most, a set of empty bones," further emphasizes the hollowness and lack of substance in this person's character. They are constantly searching for external validation and anything that can make them feel whole, yet they remain unfulfilled. The lyrics also highlight the fleeting nature of these external validations, as the person's sense of self-worth diminishes when it gets cold, metaphorically referring to difficult or challenging times.

The song implies that the person's religious symbols, such as the cross, are merely superficial adornments worn out of fear or a desire to appear righteous. The protagonist sees through this facade and perceives the heaviness and regret that the person carries within. The final lines, "Don't think I didn't notice," further affirm the artist's awareness of the person's true nature and the hollowness behind their actions.

In essence, "Holy" exposes the flaws in individuals who present a righteous image but lack authenticity. It serves as a critique of religious hypocrisy and the emptiness that can result from prioritizing appearances over genuine faith and belief.