Meaning of God’s Reign by SZA

The song "God's Reign" by SZA is a powerful and thought-provoking piece that explores various themes and emotions. At its core, the song delves into the struggles and personal battles we face in today's society, ultimately questioning the concept of power and control. SZA's lyrics evoke a sense of vulnerability, speaking to the often overwhelming nature of life and the fear that can hold us back. Let's take a closer look at some of the standout lyrics and the imaginative themes they help develop.In the chorus, SZA sings, "Guess that's how it is these days, you even lose when you win these days." This line sets the tone for the song, capturing the paradoxical nature of modern life. It suggests that even when we succeed, there is still a sense of loss or emptiness. This theme of duality and the constant struggle to find balance in our lives emerges as a recurring motif throughout the song.Ab-Soul's verse speaks to the importance of self-awareness and introspection. He raps, "Your soul sits on your third eye, Soul sits on the throne." This line highlights the significance of spirituality and understanding oneself on a deeper level. It suggests that true power and reign come from within, from aligning with our higher selves and embracing our own unique journey.Another noteworthy line from Ab-Soul's verse is, "ABC everything, every M you end up with is owed." This lyric introduces the theme of accountability and the need to take responsibility for our actions. It suggests that we must pay our dues and balance both the positive and negative aspects of our lives. The idea of "simple math" emphasizes that we reap what we sow, and mastering this equation leads to growth and self-empowerment.Throughout the song, there is a prevalent theme of fear and the hesitancy to fully live and move forward. SZA sings, "Scared to live, scared to move these days." This line reflects the contemporary reality in which we often find ourselves paralyzed by fear, hindered from taking risks and pursuing our dreams. The theme of fear is further explored in Ab-Soul's lyrics, "This world is dark, and my locs are on, but I ain't afraid." Here, he confronts the darkness of the world head-on, refusing to let fear dictate his actions.Ab-Soul also touches on societal expectations and the pressures of conformity in his verse. He raps, "Cause we ain't choose this life; it chose us. So don't show hate cause she chose us. I'm just stacking paper; get yours up." In these lines, he challenges the notion that we are defined solely by external factors and encourages listeners to embrace their individuality. The message is clear: rather than conforming to society's expectations, we should focus on personal growth and self-empowerment.The song concludes with an interlude by Ab-Soul, in which he proclaims, "More than a man, I been died and rose again. Left these holes in my hand, so you know who I am." This final lyric alludes to the transformative power of personal growth and resilience. It suggests that we have the ability to overcome our struggles and rise stronger from adversity. The mention of "holes in my hand" echoes the story of Christ's crucifixion and resurrection, symbolizing the strength that can arise from embracing our wounds and scars.In "God's Reign," SZA and Ab-Soul delve into the complexities of human existence, addressing themes such as duality, self-awareness, fear, and personal growth. Their introspective lyrics invite listeners to contemplate their own lives and consider the significance of power, control, and individuality. Ultimately, the song encourages us to embrace our unique journeys, overcome fear, and find our own paths to self-reign.