Once Upon The Cross

Deicide's 'Once Upon The Cross' is a provocative and intense exploration of religious themes, particularly focusing on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ from a blasphemous perspective. The song opens with a chilling invocation to fear Satan, setting the tone for a narrative that challenges traditional Christian beliefs. The lyrics depict Jesus, referred to as the Nazarene, in a moment of vulnerability, facing temptations from Satan. The serpent's invitation to 'take a bite' is a direct reference to the biblical story of Adam and Eve, symbolizing the irresistible nature of sin and temptation.

The song's chorus, 'Impaled crucifixion, Compassion forgot, Eternal damnation, Once upon a cross,' paints a grim picture of Jesus' suffering and the perceived futility of his sacrifice. The use of the word 'impaled' instead of 'crucified' adds a layer of brutality, emphasizing the physical and spiritual torment. The phrase 'compassion forgot' suggests a world devoid of mercy, where Jesus' message of love and forgiveness is overshadowed by his gruesome death. The term 'eternal damnation' implies that this act of crucifixion has far-reaching consequences, not just for Jesus but for humanity as a whole.

The song further delves into themes of deception and betrayal, with lines like 'Blasphemy laughs at thee, Jesus you've been deceived.' This suggests that Jesus' suffering was in vain, a cruel trick played by Satan. The imagery of Jesus 'struggling on the cross, gagging to breathe' is visceral and haunting, highlighting the physical agony of crucifixion. The song concludes with the assertion that 'when you die is when the lie will be believed,' implying that Jesus' death is the ultimate deception, a moment when the truth is obscured by the spectacle of his suffering. 'Once Upon The Cross' is a powerful and controversial piece that challenges listeners to confront uncomfortable questions about faith, sacrifice, and the nature of evil.