Beast And The Harlot

Avenged Sevenfold's 'Beast And The Harlot' is a song steeped in biblical imagery and metaphor, drawing heavily from the Book of Revelation in the New Testament. The lyrics paint a picture of a city built of gold, symbolizing the pinnacle of human wealth and achievement, but beneath the surface lies a city of evil. The '7-headed beast' and the 'symbolic woman' refer to the figures of the Antichrist and Babylon, the latter representing the epitome of sin and moral decay. The song narrates the downfall of this city, equating it with the fall of Babylon as described in the Bible.

The repeated chorus about the city being a 'dwelling place for demons' and a 'cage for every unclean spirit' emphasizes the corruption and the influence of evil within. The 'poisoned wine' is a metaphor for the seductive and destructive nature of sin that leads to spiritual fornication, a betrayal of what is considered sacred. The song serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of indulging in excess and moral depravity, suggesting that such a path leads to destruction and downfall, as symbolized by the burning of Babylon.

The final verse offers a stark choice between serving 'above' or reigning 'below,' implying a decision between good and evil, salvation or damnation. Avenged Sevenfold, known for their hard rock and heavy metal style, often incorporates dark and complex themes into their music, and 'Beast And The Harlot' is no exception. It challenges listeners to reflect on the allure of vice and the ultimate price of succumbing to it, wrapped in a powerful and intense musical composition.