Knowledge Of The Ancient Kingdom

Samael's 'Knowledge Of The Ancient Kingdom' delves into the esoteric and arcane, painting a vivid picture of a world steeped in dark sorcery and ancient rituals. The song opens with a reference to a bygone 'golden age of sorcery,' suggesting a time when magical practices were at their zenith. However, this era has passed, leaving behind a kingdom shrouded in darkness, where only cursed books hold the key to reclaiming lost powers. This sets the stage for a narrative that explores the quest for forbidden knowledge and the lengths to which one might go to regain power.

The repeated invocation of 'Belf, son of Belf,' a figure with 'brass feet, iron heel,' serves as a central motif in the song. This character is called upon to grant the power to 'kill at distance,' a metaphor for wielding immense, almost god-like power. The imagery of brass and iron suggests strength and invulnerability, qualities that the protagonist seeks to acquire. The song's lyrics also emphasize the importance of obedience and the fulfillment of vows, hinting at a hierarchical structure within this mystical world where power is granted in exchange for unwavering loyalty and the completion of dark deeds.

The mention of Hecat, a reference to Hecate, the ancient Greek goddess associated with witchcraft and magic, further deepens the song's connection to ancient mysticism. Hecate's role as an overseer of crime and her association with knowledge that transcends millennia underscores the song's theme of timeless, forbidden wisdom. The protagonist's brain 'on fire' symbolizes the consuming desire for power and the willingness to commit heinous acts to achieve it. Samael's lyrics weave a tale of dark ambition, ancient knowledge, and the perilous path one must tread to attain ultimate power.