Stossgebet
Powerwolf
The Sacred and the Profane: Unveiling Powerwolf's 'Stossgebet'
Powerwolf's 'Stossgebet' is a provocative and intense song that blends religious imagery with themes of lust and sacrilege. The lyrics are a mix of Latin and German, creating a sense of ancient ritual and modern rebellion. The repeated phrase 'Ave fornicatio et sacrilegum' translates to 'Hail fornication and sacrilege,' setting the tone for the song's exploration of taboo subjects within a religious context.
The song's title, 'Stossgebet,' translates to 'prayer of thrusts,' a term that carries both sexual and spiritual connotations. The lyrics describe a scene where the act of physical love is intertwined with religious fervor, as seen in lines like 'Der Kirchturmpfahl zum Himmel steht' (The church tower pole stands to the sky) and 'Der Wein geweiht, die Erde bebt' (The wine consecrated, the earth trembles). These lines suggest a merging of the sacred and the profane, where the physical act becomes a form of worship.
Powerwolf is known for their theatrical and bombastic style, often incorporating themes of religion, mythology, and horror into their music. 'Stossgebet' is no exception, as it challenges conventional notions of piety and sin. The song's climax, 'Kommet zum Herrn! Stoßgebet!' (Come to the Lord! Prayer of thrusts!), invites listeners to embrace this fusion of the holy and the carnal, suggesting that true devotion may lie in the acceptance of all aspects of human nature.
The song's powerful imagery and bold themes make it a standout track in Powerwolf's discography, encouraging listeners to question and explore the boundaries between the sacred and the profane.