Meaning of I Will Love Him by Bob Dylan

The Bob Dylan song "I Will Love Him" reveals a multitude of unexpected and imaginative themes as it explores the depths of devotion and faith. At its core, the song centers around the protagonist's unwavering commitment to loving, serving, and glorifying a mysterious figure. Through its profound and thought-provoking lyrics, the song touches upon various standout themes, each contributing to the larger narrative of the song.One standout lyric, "He came on East out of Galilee and disappeared like when he taught," captures the enigmatic nature of the protagonist's object of devotion. It suggests that this figure, although once physically present, has now become an elusive presence. This lyric develops the theme of mystery and the transcendence of physical limitations. The protagonist's unwavering commitment to love and serve someone who is seemingly unattainable adds depth to their devotion and highlights the importance of faith in the absence of tangible proof.Another impactful lyric, "He said when the fig tree was blooming, He would be at the gate, He was talking 'bout the state of Israel, From nineteen forty-eight," introduces the theme of prophecy and the connection between historical events and religious significance. The fig tree's blooming symbolizes a specific time and place, evoking the notion of divine timing. Furthermore, the mention of the state of Israel's formation in 1948 signifies a prophetic link between biblical prophecies and modern geopolitical events. This theme allows for the exploration of timely religious interpretations and the role of belief in the face of historical and political changes.The lyric, "When He was down conceived here, His mother didn’t know what she carried, Took an angel of the Lord, To tell her what she done carry," delves into the theme of divine intervention and the revelation of purpose. This line illuminates the mysterious circumstances surrounding the birth of the figure to whom the protagonist is devoted. It emphasizes the significance of unforeseen revelations and unexpected paths in shaping one's devotion and commitment. By connecting the protagonist's devotion to the inherent divine nature of the figure they love, this lyric explores the idea of finding purpose through unexpected and transformative experiences.The verse that states, "Did anybody say it was gonna be easy? Nobody said that you couldn't complain," uncovers the theme of struggles and doubts within devotion. Here, Dylan acknowledges the challenges that arise when one commits to serving and loving someone without guaranteeing an easy journey. This theme encourages a nuanced understanding of faith and devotion, emphasizing that it is okay to question and express doubts along the way. By addressing the internal conflicts that can arise within devotion, the lyric adds a layer of realism and relatability to the protagonist's unwavering commitment.Additionally, the lyric, "Even Peter denied him, Standin' right beside him, They took him out and falsely tried him, Eventually crucified him," explores the theme of betrayal and sacrifice in devotion. It draws upon the biblical narrative of Peter's denial of Jesus during his crucifixion, highlighting the inherent vulnerability and human flaws within devotion. This theme delves into the complexities of devotion, intertwining the ideas of loyalty and sacrifice, and serves as a cautionary message about the potential trials one might face when devoted to an ideal or figure.Overall, "I Will Love Him" weaves a tapestry of unexpected and imaginative themes, each contributing to the larger narrative of devotion and faith. Through mysterious figures, prophetic events, divine interventions, struggles, doubts, and sacrifices, the song explores the intricate and multi-faceted nature of devotion. It reminds listeners of the challenges and complexities inherent in unwavering commitment while encouraging a deepened understanding and exploration of faith in the face of uncertainty.