Banish From Sanctuary

Blind Guardian's song "Banish From Sanctuary" delves into the complex emotions and spiritual turmoil of a prophet who feels abandoned and betrayed. The lyrics are rich with biblical references, particularly to John the Baptist, who baptized with water and foretold the coming of Jesus Christ. The protagonist of the song seems to be a figure who once preached in the deserts, feeling the hand of God guiding him, only to find himself lost and questioning his faith and purpose.

The song's narrative explores themes of isolation and disillusionment. The prophet feels banished from his sanctuary, a metaphor for his spiritual and emotional exile. He grapples with the darkness within him, which fills him with pain and a sense of eternal damnation. This internal struggle is exacerbated by his feelings of abandonment by the one he once heralded, referred to as the "famous son." The prophet's loneliness and longing for deliverance are palpable as he questions whether the one he awaited is truly the savior or if they should wait for another.

The lyrics also touch on the prophet's sacrifice and the consequences of his actions. He speaks of his blood smoothing the way for the coming of a new reign, yet he warns of the dangers that lie ahead, symbolized by the ever-watchful rats. The song culminates in a sense of impending doom, with the prophet hearing the hangman coming and awaiting his execution. This finality underscores the theme of irreversible fate, as the prophet accepts that there is no turning back from his banishment and the darkness that now consumes him.