Song meaning of The Lamb by John Tavener

The lyrics of "The Lamb" by John Tavener convey a message of innocence, purity, and divine love. The song explores the relationship between a little lamb and its creator, raising profound questions about the nature of existence and the connection between the divine and the earthly.

The first stanza emphasizes the tender care and provision of the lamb's creator, who gave it life, sustenance, and delightful clothing. The lamb's voice brings joy to the valleys, symbolizing the beauty and harmony of creation. The repeating question, "Dost thou know who made thee?", invites contemplation on the origin and purpose of life.

In the second stanza, the speaker, possibly representing a spiritual guide or teacher, tells the little lamb that its creator is called by its name. This suggests that the divine is intimately connected to the lamb, sharing its meekness and gentleness. The creator's act of becoming a little child signifies the embodiment of innocence and vulnerability, paralleling the lamb's existence. The last two lines affirm the shared identity between the lamb and the creator, both called by the same name and blessed by God.

Overall, the lyrics of "The Lamb" explore the themes of divine creation, the interconnectedness of all beings, and the transformative power of innocence. It evokes a sense of wonder and reverence for the beauty and mystery of existence and encourages introspection about our own relationship with the divine.