Славься, Русь

Arkona's song 'Славься, Русь' is a powerful homage to the vast and storied land of Russia, often referred to as 'Mother Russia.' The lyrics evoke a deep sense of pride and reverence for the country's expansive landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The song opens by addressing the 'Great Mother Earth' and the 'great Rus,' highlighting the boundless fields and the children of Dazhbog, a deity from Slavic mythology, who have come to inhabit these lands. This reference to Dazhbog's children underscores a connection to ancient traditions and the divine, suggesting that the people of Russia are descendants of a noble and sacred lineage.

The song continues by describing the journey through 'ancient wilderness' and 'distant lands,' where the 'brothers'—the sons of Dazhbog—emerge, raising their formidable banners. This imagery of raising banners and reviving the 'former Rus' speaks to a desire to restore and preserve the glory and traditions of the past. The mention of 'keeping the covenants of Prav' and swearing before the gods further emphasizes a commitment to uphold ancient laws and values, reinforcing the theme of cultural and spiritual continuity.

In the chorus, the song calls upon 'Mother Night, daughter of Svarog,' to hide the 'gray covenants of the fathers' from the 'black eye of the fierce enemy' in the sacred forests. This plea for protection from external threats and the preservation of sacred traditions in the heart of nature reflects a deep-seated fear of losing cultural identity. The song concludes with a heartfelt invocation to 'glorify, dear Mother' and the 'Russian soul,' reaffirming the bond between the people and their homeland. The repeated call to 'glorify, Rus, my land' serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit and unity of the Russian people.