Hozier’s “Take Me To Church” song resonated globally, achieving unexpected mainstream success after its debut. Upon first listen, the musicality and Hozier’s compelling voice are undeniable. However, a deeper examination of the lyrics reveals a perspective that warrants closer scrutiny, particularly from a Christian viewpoint. This analysis delves into the lyrical content of “Take Me To Church,” exploring its controversial themes and offering a response that seeks to clarify Christian teachings often juxtaposed against the song’s narrative.
“I’ll worship like a dog at the shrine of your lies, I’ll tell you my sins so you can sharpen your knife.”
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These opening lines immediately establish a tone of conflict and disillusionment. The imagery of “worship like a dog” and “shrine of your lies” paints a stark picture of corrupted devotion. The phrase “sharpen your knife” suggests a malicious intent attributed to the object of worship, fostering a sense of danger and betrayal. Further lyrics like “Every Sunday’s getting more bleak, a fresh poison each week” contribute to a narrative of negativity and spiritual decay associated with, though not explicitly stated yet implicitly understood as, religious practice. The line, “That’s a fine looking high horse, what you got in the stable? We’ve a lot of starving faithful,” continues this critical thread, accusing a perceived religious authority of hypocrisy and neglect towards its followers.
To understand the impetus behind such strong lyrical choices in “Take Me To Church Song,” it’s helpful to consider Hozier’s background and stated influences. Interviews reveal his criticism of the Catholic Church and his opposition to Russia’s discriminatory laws against homosexuals. While these personal stances are valid, generalizing these specific issues to represent all of Christianity, as the song arguably does, presents a skewed and incomplete picture. It’s noteworthy that “Take Me To Church” was written when Hozier was relatively young. Experiences and perspectives often evolve over time, as seen in the contrasting views of faith expressed by fellow Irish musician Bono, who, with more life experience, has articulated a different relationship with Christianity.
Pastor Rick McDaniel
The lyric “I was born sick, but I love it, command me to be well,” directly references a quote Hozier heard from atheist Christopher Hitchens, attributed to 17th-century poet Baron Brooke Fulke Greville. This line encapsulates a sense of inherent brokenness and a simultaneous rejection of being “healed” or changed, further fueling the song’s themes of rebellion against perceived religious norms. The popularity of “Take Me To Church song” raises questions about its resonance. Does its widespread appeal stem from shared sentiments of anti-religious feeling, or is it primarily driven by the song’s musicality and Hozier’s vocal performance? Regardless of the precise reasons, the song’s powerful message, due to its reach, necessitates a thoughtful response, especially when its interpretation can be seen as misrepresenting Christian faith.
One key area of contention in “Take Me To Church” appears to be the realm of sexual morality. The lyric emphasizing “stay out of the bedroom” suggests a frustration with perceived religious intrusion into personal lives. However, Christian teachings on sexuality are not arbitrary restrictions but are rooted in a belief that sex is a sacred gift from God, designed to be expressed within the commitment of marriage between a husband and wife. This framework is not intended to be a “poison,” as the song suggests, but rather a structure that aims to protect individuals and relationships from the potential “poison” of brokenness that can result from sexual relationships outside of this committed context, such as adultery, unplanned pregnancies, and the spread of disease. The “knife” of Christian morality, in this view, is not meant to harm but to act as a “scalpel,” performing necessary surgery to bring healing and wholeness to individuals and society. The contrasting “lies,” from a Christian perspective, would be the notion that sex requires no commitment or that true intimacy can exist without relationship.
The “high horse” accusation in “Take Me To Church” implies that the Church is judgmental. While judgmentalism is a recognized failing within religious communities, the act of discerning right from wrong is a fundamental aspect of Christian teaching. The Bible provides moral direction, delineating between good and evil, truth and falsehood. Therefore, expressing truth about sexuality and other moral issues is not inherently judgmental but is seen as a necessary role of the Church. Christians believe they have a responsibility to speak truth, even when it is unpopular, not to marginalize or silence others, but to offer guidance based on their faith.
Ultimately, while Hozier has the artistic freedom to express his perspective through “Take Me To Church song,” it is equally valid to offer a response and challenge the song’s underlying assumptions about Christianity. Open dialogue and a willingness to understand different viewpoints are crucial. It is hoped that with time and further engagement, perhaps including positive interactions with Christians, perspectives can broaden, leading to a more nuanced understanding of faith and its role in the world.
