Slaves Shall Serve

Behemoth's 'Slaves Shall Serve' is a powerful and intense song that delves into themes of domination, rebellion, and transcendence. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world on the brink of apocalypse, where the 'slaves'—representing the oppressed or the weak—are destined to serve as the old order collapses. The repeated phrase 'Slaves shall serve' underscores the inevitability of this subjugation, while also hinting at a cyclical nature of power dynamics where the oppressed may rise only to become oppressors themselves.

The song is rich with mythological and esoteric references. The invocation of 'Father ov terror' and the journey 'Thru' the galleys ov past' and 'Catacombs ov night' suggest a descent into ancient, hidden knowledge. The mention of 'Asar un-nefer' (a reference to Osiris, the Egyptian god of the afterlife) and the 'fields ov aqert' (a term related to the Egyptian underworld) further deepen the song's connection to themes of death and rebirth. This journey is not just physical but also spiritual, as the protagonist seeks to break free from 'eternal sleep' and achieve a higher state of being.

The song's aggressive tone and imagery of war and destruction, such as 'Draw thy flaming sword' and 'Trample all weakness,' reflect Behemoth's signature style of blending blackened death metal with profound, often controversial, lyrical content. The call to 'Dance, dance!' and 'spit upon slaves ov death' can be seen as a celebration of liberation from the constraints of mortality and societal norms. The final lines, 'We charm all jins... And penetrate eternity,' suggest a transcendence beyond the physical realm, achieving a state of eternal, almost divine, existence.

'Behemoth' is known for their complex and often provocative themes, blending elements of mythology, occultism, and existential philosophy. 'Slaves Shall Serve' is a testament to their ability to create music that is not only sonically powerful but also rich in symbolic meaning, challenging listeners to explore deeper layers of interpretation.