I had a dream last night
I was a bird in flight
A burning city on my left
And a golden one on my right
There was a woman there
Tearing out her hair
In dust and ash she laid
The sins have been repaid
Oh Babylon, the whole earth has drank the madness in your wine
Oh Babylon, but the day has come when you will pay for every crime
And now it's time to take the wall!
'Cause Babylon must fall!
And raze it to the ground!
'Cause Judgement has come down!
But Jerusalem will stand,
A flood of justice flows across the land
And the earth take up the song
When we bring down Babylon!
Whoa...
When we bring down Babylon!
Whoa...
When we bring down Babylon!
Then in the golden town
I saw a throne and crown
To it word gathered 'round
The righteous bowing down
And the streets, they rang
With the song they sang
Bring forth the Lamb who died
And now bring forth His bride
Oh Jerusalem, your towers rising high in victory
Oh Jerusalem, from your gates, let peace and justice flow like rivers to the sea
But now it's time to take the wall!
'Cause Babylon must fall!
And raze it to the ground!
'Cause Judgement has come down!
But Jerusalem will stand,
A flood of justice flows across the land
And the earth take up the song
When we bring down Babylon!
Whoa...
When we bring down Babylon!
Whoa...
When we bring down Babylon!
And now it's time to take the wall!
'Cause Babylon must fall!
And raze it to the ground!
'Cause Judgement has come down!
But Jerusalem will stand,
A flood of justice flows across the land
And the earth take up the song
When we bring down Babylon!
When we bring down Babylon!
Whoa...
When we bring down Babylon!
Whoa...
When we bring down Babylon!
Whoa...
When we bring down Babylon!
When we bring down Babylon!
Whoa...
When we bring down Babylon!
Whoa...
When we bring down Babylon!
Whoa...
When we bring down Babylon!
Dream of Two Cities Video
Dream of Two Cities Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"Dream of Two Cities" by The O.C. Supertones is a powerful and thought-provoking song that explores the contrasting realities of two cities: Babylon and Jerusalem. Through its lyrics, the song conveys a message of judgment, redemption, and the ultimate triumph of righteousness.
**Introduction to "Dream of Two Cities"**
The song begins with a vivid dream-like imagery, where the narrator envisions being a bird in flight, witnessing two cities on opposite ends of the spectrum. The city on the left is described as a burning city, while the city on the right is described as a golden one. This sets the stage for the contrasting themes and messages that will unfold throughout the song.
**The Sins of Babylon**
In the next lines, the song introduces us to a woman in Babylon who is tearing out her hair. This image symbolizes despair and anguish, possibly as a consequence of the sins committed in Babylon. The lyrics suggest that Babylon has reached a point where the sins committed within it can no longer go unpunished.
The chorus of the song emphasizes the impending judgment upon Babylon, proclaiming that the day has come when it will pay for every crime. This echoes biblical themes of divine justice and retribution for wickedness.
**Jerusalem's Triumph**
The focus of the song then shifts to Jerusalem, the golden city on the right. The lyrics describe a scene where people gather around a throne and crown, and the righteous bow down in reverence. This imagery suggests a scene of worship and exaltation, where righteousness is celebrated and honored.
The second chorus emphasizes Jerusalem's victory and endurance, contrasting it with the impending downfall of Babylon. The city is portrayed as a beacon of justice and peace, with its gates flowing with righteousness. This aligns with biblical depictions of Jerusalem as the city of God, where righteousness and justice prevail.
**Taking Down Babylon**
The song then returns to the chorus, emphasizing the need to "take the wall" and bring down Babylon. This is a call to action, urging listeners to stand against the wickedness and corruption symbolized by Babylon. The lyrics suggest that Babylon must be razed to the ground, as judgment has come upon it.
**Biblical Alignment and Analysis**
"Dream of Two Cities" draws inspiration from biblical themes and imagery, particularly from the books of Revelation and the prophecies of Isaiah.
The concept of two contrasting cities, Babylon and Jerusalem, can be found in the book of Revelation. In Revelation, Babylon is depicted as a symbol of evil, corruption, and false worship, while Jerusalem represents the dwelling place of God and the redeemed.
The call for judgment upon Babylon aligns with several passages in the Bible. In Revelation 18, the fall of Babylon is described in detail, and it is portrayed as a consequence of its sins and wickedness. Isaiah 13:19-22 also prophesies the destruction of Babylon, emphasizing its ultimate downfall and desolation.
The exaltation of Jerusalem and its portrayal as a city of righteousness resonates with biblical descriptions of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21. This city is depicted as a place where God dwells with His people, and righteousness and peace abound.
Critically analyzing the song's biblical alignment, "Dream of Two Cities" captures the themes of judgment, redemption, and the ultimate triumph of righteousness. It draws upon biblical imagery and prophetic texts to convey its message effectively.
However, it is important to note that the song does not provide a comprehensive theological analysis of the concepts it explores. It is a creative interpretation and expression of biblical themes, meant to inspire reflection and action.
**Conclusion**
"Dream of Two Cities" by The O.C. Supertones is a compelling song that delves into the contrasting realities of Babylon and Jerusalem. Through its vivid imagery and powerful lyrics, it conveys messages of judgment, redemption, and the ultimate triumph of righteousness. The song draws inspiration from biblical themes and aligns with passages in Revelation and Isaiah.
While the song serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of righteousness, it is essential to approach it as a creative expression rather than a theological treatise. As with any artistic work, it should be appreciated for its ability to evoke emotions, inspire reflection, and encourage action.
