Ghettos Of Babylon

Dezarie's song "Ghettos Of Babylon" is a poignant reflection on the struggles and aspirations of those living in marginalized communities. The repeated refrain, "By the ghettos of Babylon where we sat down in a meditation, wanting Zion," underscores a deep yearning for a better life, symbolized by Zion. In Rastafarian culture, Babylon represents a corrupt and oppressive system, while Zion is a utopian ideal of peace, justice, and divine presence. The song captures the tension between the harsh realities of life in the ghettos and the spiritual longing for a place of refuge and righteousness.

The lyrics delve into the systemic issues plaguing these communities, such as economic inequality, environmental degradation, and social injustice. Dezarie critiques the wealth disparity, noting how the system benefits the wealthy while the poor suffer. The imagery of "planting a natural garden" juxtaposed with "industrial plant polluting" highlights the conflict between natural purity and industrial corruption. The mention of "acid rain" and "unemployment for poor man" further emphasizes the destructive impact of these systemic failures on the most vulnerable.

Amidst these challenges, the song also offers a vision of hope and resilience. The references to Zion as a place "where milk and honey flowing" and "land of the gods surrounded by waterfalls and fountains" evoke a sense of paradise and divine promise. The elders' storytelling and the community's collective meditation signify a shared cultural and spiritual heritage that sustains them. Dezarie's powerful vocals and evocative lyrics serve as a call to remember and strive for Zion, even in the face of Babylon's oppression.