Leper Messiah

Metallica's 'Leper Messiah' is a scathing critique of religious exploitation and the deceitful televangelists who prey on the faithful. The song, from their 1986 album 'Master of Puppets', uses heavy metal's intense sound to deliver a powerful message about corruption and manipulation in organized religion.

The lyrics paint a picture of a 'Leper Messiah', a figure who represents the corrupt religious leaders who manipulate their followers for personal gain. Phrases like 'send me money, send me green, heaven you will meet' and 'make a contribution and you'll get a better seat' directly address the practice of televangelists soliciting money from their congregations with the promise of spiritual rewards. The song's title itself is a paradox, combining 'leper', often associated with social outcasts, with 'Messiah', a savior figure, to highlight the irony of these leaders who are morally corrupt yet revered.

The song also delves into the psychological aspect of this manipulation, suggesting that the followers are 'spineless from the start' and easily 'sucked into the part'. The repeated calls to 'bow to Leper Messiah' underscore the blind obedience expected by these figures. Metallica, known for their critical stance on social issues, uses their music to challenge listeners to question authority and resist being taken in by false prophets.