The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Wisdom And the Cage" by the artist "Therion"

In Therion's song "Wisdom And the Cage," the lyrical hero finds himself in a state of existential searching, imprisoned by his own questions and doubts. He appeals to Sophia, the personification of Wisdom, with a plea to free him from the "cage of questions" and "carnal darkness" which symbolize ignorance and spiritual limitations.

The "heavy chains" are a metaphor for attachments, fears, and limiting beliefs that prevent the hero from moving towards the light of knowledge. Birgal, "the path leading to the Tincture," is the path of spiritual development, self-improvement through alchemical transformation ("alchemy within my soul"). The Tincture, the philosopher's stone in alchemy, symbolizes the attainment of higher wisdom and spiritual enlightenment.

The recurring phrase "Break the chains and break the cage!" is the cry of a soul yearning for liberation from the shackles of ignorance. The hero believes that Sophia, the source of light and knowledge, is able to help him find spiritual freedom.

The image of the "sun above me" is a metaphor for enlightenment, the attainment of higher consciousness, which the lyrical hero strives for. The "radiance in my soul" symbolizes the awakening of inner light, intuitive knowledge, which leads him on the path to Sophia.

The Gothic Kabbalah rune mentioned in the comments strengthens the esoteric context of the song, emphasizing the connection to the tradition of mystical knowledge.