Hexenhammer

Burning Witches' song 'Hexenhammer' delves into the grim history of witch hunts, particularly those inspired by the infamous 15th-century treatise 'Malleus Maleficarum' (Latin for 'Hammer of Witches'). The lyrics paint a harrowing picture of the persecution faced by women accused of witchcraft, often based on flimsy evidence and societal prejudices. The song's aggressive tone and vivid imagery reflect the brutality and injustice of these historical events.

The repeated references to 'Satan’s whore' and 'burn alive' underscore the dehumanizing language used to justify the torture and execution of accused witches. These women were often marginalized, labeled as 'guilty and feeble,' and accused of 'misusing personal advantages' or being 'mentally fragile.' The song highlights how these accusations were frequently rooted in misogyny and fear of the unknown, with the accused being scapegoated for societal ills.

The chorus, with its relentless chant of 'Hexen hammer,' serves as a chilling reminder of the relentless persecution and the zeal with which these witch hunts were carried out. The song also touches on themes of temptation and sin, suggesting that the accused were often seen as morally corrupt and deserving of their fate. By invoking the imagery of burning and purification, 'Hexenhammer' critiques the historical obsession with eradicating perceived evil, often at the cost of innocent lives.

Burning Witches, known for their heavy metal sound and powerful vocals, use 'Hexenhammer' to not only recount a dark chapter in history but also to comment on the enduring impact of such persecution. The song serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of fanaticism and the importance of questioning societal norms that lead to such atrocities.