Poem Analysis - If It Is True What The Prophets Write

A Call to Religious Fidelity

William Blake's "If It Is True What The Prophets Write" is a fiery and defiant poem that questions the blind acceptance of tradition and challenges readers to remain true to their faith. The poem has a tone of righteous indignation and scorn, particularly against those who would compromise their beliefs for the sake of social acceptance or political expediency. It moves from posing hypothetical questions to a scathing condemnation of idolatry and the perversion of true worship. The poem culminates in a strong rejection of practices seen as corrupt and antithetical to the speaker’s religious conviction.

Historical Echoes: A Revolt Against Religious Conformity

While the poem doesn't explicitly refer to specific historical events, it resonates with Blake's broader critique of religious and political authority in 18th and early 19th century England. Blake was critical of institutionalized religion, particularly the Church of England, which he perceived as corrupt and stifling of individual spiritual experience. His work often championed individual vision and prophetic insight against what he saw as the deadening weight of tradition and dogma. This poem can be seen as part of his larger project of re-imagining religious belief and practice, prioritizing spiritual authenticity over empty ritual.

The Perils of Compromise: Theme of Religious Purity

One of the central themes of the poem is the importance of religious purity and the dangers of compromising one's faith. The opening lines question whether believers should "feed" heathen gods "for the sake of being polite." This seemingly simple question reveals a deeper concern about the subtle ways in which societies can pressure individuals to participate in practices that contradict their core values. The poem suggests that true faith requires unwavering commitment, even in the face of social disapproval.

The Corruption of Worship: Theme of Idolatry and its Consequences

The poem also explores the theme of idolatry, not merely in its literal sense of worshipping "stocks and stones," but also in its broader implications for the corruption of art and society. Blake argues that the worship of false gods leads to the distortion of creativity ("inspirèd art abhorr'd") and the abuse of power ("their sublime intent given to their kings"). The shift "criminals to sacrifices turn'd" underscores how the worship of false gods inevitably leads to moral decay and injustice. True inspiration and art, for Blake, stemmed from a divine source, and idolatry perverted that very source.

The Superiority of True Revelation: Theme of Authentic Faith

A third dominant theme is that of authentic faith versus imposed dogma. The reference to "Bezaleel and Aholiab" who "drew / What the finger of God pointed to their view" contrasts sharply with the "Roman and Grecian rods" that seek to "compel us to worship them as gods." Blake exalts direct, divinely inspired revelation as superior to enforced conformity. He suggests that true faith is not about blindly following tradition but about actively seeking and receiving divine guidance. The image of the "finger of God" is particularly powerful, representing a direct and personal connection to the divine.

Symbolism of "Marrow-Bones" and "Rods": The Currency of Submission

The image of feeding idols with "the juice of our marrow-bones" is particularly striking. It suggests a squandering of one's vital energy and resources on something worthless and ultimately destructive. "Marrow-bones," representing the very essence of life and sustenance, are sacrificed to empty idols, highlighting the futility and self-defeating nature of compromising one's faith. Similarly, the "Roman and Grecian rods" symbolize the forces of oppression and coercion that seek to enforce religious conformity. They represent not only physical power but also the psychological pressure to abandon one's beliefs in the face of authority. The poem asks, are these symbols of false authority worth our submission?

A Legacy of Resistance: Concluding Thoughts

In conclusion, "If It Is True What The Prophets Write" is a powerful call to religious integrity and a fierce condemnation of idolatry in all its forms. Through its vivid imagery and impassioned tone, the poem challenges readers to examine their own beliefs and to resist the temptation to compromise their faith for the sake of social acceptance or political expediency. Blake’s poem urges a steadfast adherence to divine inspiration as a source of strength and righteousness, a message that continues to resonate with those who value spiritual authenticity above all else. It remains a testament to the enduring power of individual conscience in the face of societal pressures.