Track By Tracks: SHAMASH - DONE WITH MISERY (NOS PERGAMOS IN DOMINE SALUTEUM) (2024)

1. Not By My Heart:

"Not by My Heart" is a poignant expression of faith, echoing biblical teachings on reliance on God's strength and guidance. The lyrics draw parallels with Psalm 23:4, which reassures believers that even in their darkest moments, they need not fear, for God is with them. The acknowledgment of being "no longer a slave to the chains" reflects the freedom found in Galatians 5:1, where Christ's liberation from sin is proclaimed. The admission of human weakness, with "My heart it is willing but my flesh is weak," resonates with Matthew 26:41, reminding listeners of the struggle between spirit and flesh. This song encapsulates the essence of seeking refuge and strength in God, aligning with the biblical principle of relying on His word and power rather than human understanding or capability.

2. Done with Misery:

"Done with Misery" delves into themes of repentance and redemption, echoing biblical concepts of reaping what one sows and finding salvation through faith. The mention of "writings on the wall" and the idea that "the things you said will come and haunt and taint your sleep" could be reminiscent of Daniel 5:5-6, where the writing on the wall foretells judgment. The call to "Fall down before Him, Give Praise, Your life, Invite Him, Born again" reflects the biblical call to repentance and the promise of new life in Christ, similar to John 3:3, "Jesus replied, 'Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.'" The song emphasizes the consequences of living apart from God and the hope found in turning back to Him, echoing themes of repentance and salvation found throughout the Bible.

3. The Missionary:

"The Missionary" celebrates the fervor and courage of those who spread the gospel, echoing biblical themes of evangelism and spiritual warfare. The song portrays missionaries as beacons of light in a dark world, echoing Matthew 5:14-16, where believers are called to be the light of the world. The reference to "Plunder darkness, empty hell, eternal life, the eternal goal" aligns with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations. The lyrics also convey the idea of spiritual warfare, drawing on Ephesians 6:12, which states that believers wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil. The song's message of standing firm against adversity and trusting in God's strength reflects Isaiah 40:31, which promises renewed strength to those who wait on the Lord. Overall, "The Missionary" celebrates the courage and dedication of those who spread the gospel, echoing biblical themes of evangelism and spiritual warfare. This track was written as a commentary on the life of Steve Rowe, the founder of Mortification. It briefly speaks about his zeal in being a missionary in Death Metal as well as his health struggles. As a callback, the song uses the lines from the song “Brutal Warfare” from Mortification as a callback tribute. The song features Asaph and Pathos from Symphony of Heaven doing gang vocals and guitar virtuoso, Bruce Maopolski of Brotality on Lead guitars.

4. In Memorium:

"In Memorium" is a poignant reflection on loss and the hope of reunion in the afterlife, echoing biblical themes of grief, remembrance, and eternal life. The lyrics convey the pain of losing a loved one, suggesting that although they are gone, their memory lives on. This sentiment aligns with Ecclesiastes 3:1-4, which speaks of a time for everything, including mourning and healing. The assurance that the departed are in a better place and the hope of being reunited in eternity echoes 1 Thessalonians 4:13- 14, which speaks of believers grieving with hope for those who have died in Christ. The song's message of enduring love and the promise of reunion in heaven resonates with Christian beliefs in eternal life and the comfort found in faith during times of loss. This song was written by Andre after the loss of his mother during the Covid-19 pandemic. He wrote this song as a tribute to her.

5. Take me as I am:

"Take Me as I Am" is a heartfelt plea for spiritual renewal and redemption, echoing biblical themes of repentance and restoration. The lyrics lament humanity's tendency towards deceit and wickedness, acknowledging the need for God to intervene and transform the heart. This sentiment aligns with Psalm 51:10, where David pleads with God to create in him a clean heart and renew a steadfast spirit within him. The song acknowledges the turning away from God's truth and righteousness, echoing Isaiah 59:2, which states that sin separates us from God. The repeated refrain of "God, take me as I am, make me whole again" reflects the biblical idea of God's transformative power, as seen in 2 Corinthians 5:17, where believers are described as new creations in Christ. Overall, "Take Me as I Am" is a poignant expression of repentance and the desire for God's forgiveness and renewal, echoing biblical themes of redemption and spiritual transformation. This song was penned by Darren, during the pandemic lockdowns. The song features his distinct vocal style in the chorus.

6. Father of Lies:

"Father of Lies" is a defiant rejection of falsehood and deceit, embodying the biblical concept of resisting the devil and standing firm in faith. The lyrics portray a determination to break free from the chains of lies and deception, echoing Jesus' declaration in John 8:32 that the truth sets us free. The imagery of watching the lies burn in flames and trampling them to the ground reflects the victory over evil promised in Romans 16:20, where God will soon crush Satan under our feet. The declaration that "My hope comes from above, My fate is sealed in His hands" echoes the Christian belief in the security of salvation and divine protection, as described in Romans 8:38-39. Overall, "Father of Lies" is a bold assertion of faith and victory over falsehood, aligning with biblical teachings on resisting evil and trusting in God's truth.

7. Interlude:

This instrumental feature the spoken word, performed by Jesse Dornfeld. An author and avid heavy metal fan. The narration speaks of the great commission.

8. Nos Pergamos In Domine Saluteum:

"Nos Pergamos in Domine Saluteum" is a triumphant declaration of victory in God, echoing biblical themes of redemption and salvation through Christ's blood. The lyrics speak of being made new and reborn through His blood, reflecting the Christian belief in the cleansing and transformative power of Jesus' sacrifice, as described in 1 John 1:7. The song emphasizes freedom from death and sin, aligning with Romans 6:23, which states that the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. The repeated proclamation of victory in God's name reflects the biblical idea of finding strength and deliverance in the name of the Lord, as seen in Psalm 20:7. The use of Hebrew and Latin in the song adds depth and richness to its message, connecting it to biblical and traditional religious contexts. The Hebrew phrase "Modeh ani l’fanecha Melech chai v’kayom" translates to "I offer thanks to You, Living and eternal King," reflecting gratitude and reverence towards God. The Latin phrase "Nos Pergamos in Domine Saluteum" translates to "We go forth in the salvation of the Lord," declaring faith and confidence in God's saving power, echoing Isaiah 12:2. This incorporation of languages adds universality and timelessness, connecting the song to broader traditions of faith and worship, enhancing its message of faith and victory in Him.

9. The War for Jerusalem:

"The War for Jerusalem" is a poignant reflection on the conflicts surrounding Jerusalem, drawing from biblical references to underscore the strife and longing for peace in the region. The song references Zechariah 12:2, depicting Jerusalem as a "cup of trembling" for all nations, highlighting the intense focus and conflict surrounding the city. It questions the ongoing enmity between Ishmael and Israel, echoing the plea for peace in Psalm 122:6. The imagery of mourning and despair, with calls to shave heads and tear garments, aligns with Joel 2:12-13, illustrating the desperate situation. The repetition of war's effects, described as a "taint" and a "smell," emphasizes its destructive nature. The Hebrew phrase "אנ' רצה" (Ani Rotzeh, I want) signifies a desire for peace, echoing the song's plea for an end to violence and bloodshed. The bridge references Isaiah 2:4, envisioning a future where weapons are transformed into tools of agriculture, symbolizing a peaceful coexistence and worship at mount Zion. Overall, "The War for Jerusalem" is a heartfelt prayer for peace and reconciliation, rooted in the biblical narrative of strife and hope for a better future

10.The Return of Al-Masih:

"The Return of Al-Masih" is a powerful narrative steeped in biblical imagery, portraying the tumultuous events surrounding the return of Christ. The song begins with a depiction of chaos and tribulation, symbolized by the birth pangs and the dragon, drawing parallels to the Book of Revelation. It references the harlot with purple robes, drunk with the blood of saints, and the armies from the east, alluding to prophetic visions of end-time events. The imagery of the clouds rolling back like a scroll signifies the dramatic unveiling of Christ's return, as described in Revelation 1:7.

The song then shifts to a plea for divine intervention, echoing the psalmist's cry for God's presence and deliverance. It expresses trust in God's unfailing love and declares His goodness, even in the midst of turmoil and uncertainty. The lyrics then transition to a proclamation of Christ's majesty and sovereignty, portraying Him as the King of kings, Lord of lords, and the Prince of peace. The imagery of Him riding on a horse with blazing eyes and the trumpet call symbolize His coming to judge the nations, as depicted in Revelation 19:11-16.

The song concludes with a vision of a new era, where the Lion and the Lamb graze together, symbolizing peace and harmony. It speaks of the city of God descending and His kingdom reigning over all, culminating in every nation bowing before Him. The final verses affirm the enduring nature of God's Word and the promise of resurrection and eternal life for His chosen ones. Overall, "The Return of Al- Masih" is a vivid portrayal of biblical end-time prophecies, highlighting the hope and ultimate victory found in Christ's return and the establishment of His kingdom.