☝️ Key Points
- The song is a strong critique of religion and the belief that God is on the side of humans.
- The first two verses describe an apocalyptic situation and demand an end to religious dogmas.
- The third verse criticizes religious institutions that commit abuse and questions the silence of God in such situations.
- The central message of the song is repeated in the chorus: 'God was never on your side'. This rejects the idea that a higher being cares about human affairs.
- The song emphasizes the power of individual judgment and reason as opposed to religious faith.
Interpretation
The song 'God Was Never on Your Side' by
Motörhead is a strong critique of religion and belief systems. It is implied that God is not on the side of people, especially those who are manipulated and exploited by religious institutions.
The first two verses describe an apocalyptic situation where 'the stars fall upon me' and 'the sun refuses to shine'. In this situation, the singer hopes that 'the chains will be released' and the old words will cease to rhyme, representing the end of the old order and religious dogmas.
The third verse criticizes the religious institutions that claim to heal but instead 'steal, abuse your faith, deceive, and plunder'. The singer questions why God, if wise, continues to remain silent while these false prophets call themselves his friends.
The repetition of the chorus 'God was never on your side' underscores the song's central message: the idea that a higher being cares about the concerns of humans is portrayed as false. Instead, the power of individual judgment and reason is emphasized: 'Let right or wrong alone decide'.