The meaning of the lyrics of the song "TOF – the Trinity" by the artist "Therion"

The lyrics of the song "TOF – the Trinity" by the Swedish metal band Therion are an appeal to the Norse gods and an exploration of ancient runic knowledge.

The song begins with the author addressing the three main gods of the Norse pantheon – Odin, Thor, and Freyr – symbolizing wisdom, strength, and fertility. He bows before them, acknowledging their divine essence.

The text goes on to speak of the "secret knowledge of Thor's father", transmitted by the "lion", which can be interpreted as a metaphor for receiving secret knowledge from a wise mentor. The mention of "salvation of the soul" and "Thor's gates to Valhalla" refers to the Viking belief in the afterlife and the importance of a heroic death in battle.

The key to this salvation, according to the lyrics, is the "Adulruna of the Sun" and the listing of the runes – Bjarkan, Sowilo, Isa, Mannaz, Hagalaz, Kenaz, Thurisaz, Sigel. The Adulruna, symbolizing the cosmos and the universe, together with the runes, representing various forces and aspects of existence, points to the importance of understanding the laws of the universe to achieve spiritual enlightenment.

The recurring refrain "TOF – the Trinity" and the call to "Open the gates – oh, father Thor" emphasize the lyrical hero's desire for union with the divine. The image of Thor's flame, visible in the depths of the well and on the surface of the water, symbolizes the presence of the divine both in the outer world and within man.

The final lines of the song speak of a striving for spiritual ascent ("to touch the sun"), where "the highest and the lowest" are united, like the divine pair Freyr and Freya, symbolizing the harmony of opposites – darkness and light.