Tithe
Obligations Unmet: Reflections on Giving and Receiving
Lyrics
You've got the dirty bones
You possess impure or questionable qualities.
And I've got nothing to wash them with
I lack the means to cleanse or purify those qualities.
But after we sing this song
Despite our current situation, we proceed to perform this song.
I've got so little left
After the song, I have very little remaining.
I've got less
I have even less than before.
Oh, how the collar's strong
The collar symbolizes strength, but it is deteriorating.
The links disintegrate one by one
The connections or bonds are falling apart individually.
Just pull the yoke along
Continue to carry the burden, despite the disintegration.
'Cause I've got nothing on tithe
I have nothing to offer as a tithe (a form of giving or payment).
Like I have promised I would do
I am fulfilling a promise, but there is still a sense of fault.
Still I am at fault
I acknowledge my wrongdoing.
Take this paltry advantage that is due
Take advantage of the meager benefits that are owed.
Before you take a soul
Before you claim a person's essence or being.
You've got the gold throne
You hold a position of power and luxury.
And I've got the broken hands
My hands are damaged or ineffective.
You've got the gold throne
Reiteration of the contrast between your opulence and my lack.
And I've got nothing on tithe
I have nothing to give as a tithe.
Like I have promised I would do
I am keeping my promise, yet acknowledging my fault.
Still I am at fault
I admit my mistake or responsibility.
Take this paltry advantage that is due
Accept the limited advantages owed before claiming a soul.
Before you take a soul
Before taking possession of someone's essence.
Tithe like I have promised I would do
Reiteration of fulfilling a promise but still acknowledging fault.
Still I am at fault
I am at fault despite fulfilling my tithe commitment.
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