Why Does Freddie Mercury Say 'Bismillah' in Bohemian Rhapsody?

Bohemian Rhapsody, one of the most iconic songs in history, carries a rich tapestry of meaning. Freddie Mercury's lyricism is celebrated for its complexity and depth, often leaving listeners to ponder the true intentions behind certain lines. One notable example is the inclusion of the term 'Bismillah' in the song, which has ignited much debate among both fans and music historians.

Mercury's Artistic Freedom

Freddie Mercury was known for his unwavering artistic vision. He was a brilliant musician and lyricist who crafted songs with layers of meaning that only his unique perspective could provide. The inclusion of 'Bismillah' in 'Bohemian Rhapsody' is a testament to his boldness and creative liberty. He simply wrote the song as he saw fit, because he was Freddie Mercury and he could.

Religious and Cultural References

The term 'Bismillah' in 'Bohemian Rhapsody' bears a rich historical and cultural context. For many, the word 'Bismillah' is an Arabic phrase that means 'in the name of Allah.' However, some insights suggest that the choice of this term might have deeper reasons related to Mercury's background.

Freddie Mercury and Arabic Affinity

Mercury was born in Zanzibar, an island that had a significant Muslim population at the time. Growing up, he would have been exposed to Arabic and Islamic culture. Although he was a Zoroastrian, the influence of his youth cannot be overlooked. His nanny, who was a Muslim, and the frequent use of 'Bismillah' in his surroundings could have left a lasting impression on him.

Protection and Pleading for Mercy

When included in the song, 'Bismillah' serves as a plea for protection and mercy. Richard Taylor, a British musician and writer, has discussed the lines in the song that speak of monstrosity, fallen angels, and Lucifer. These words, while hidden within the operatic structure of 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' are deeply symbolic.

'Bismillah' is also a term used for saying blessings before meals and to plead for mercy. This aligns well with the narrator's plea for freedom and mercy within the song. The line 'Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim,' which translates to 'in the name of God the Merciful and Compassionate,' further reinforces this interpretation.

An Inside Look at Freddie Mercury's Subtlety

Is it a covert coming-out song? Many who knew Freddie Mercury believe the song was a veiled expression of his queer identity. Given the societal norms of his time, sexual orientation was not openly discussed, and being gay was often equated with sin or a personal defect. The religious references in 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' therefore, could have served as a coded form of expression.

Many religions, including his family's Zoroastrian faith, condemned homosexuality as a sin against God. The use of 'Bismillah' then becomes a powerful symbol within the song. By placing 'Bismillah' in the lines that speak of personal struggles and redemption, Mercury might have been challenging the very religious norms that condemned him.

A Legacy of Depth and Meaning

Freddie Mercury's choice of words in 'Bohemian Rhapsody' highlights his immense talent and his ability to craft multifaceted lyrics. The inclusion of 'Bismillah' is just one example of his creative genius. His songs continue to be dissected and reinterpreted, revealing new layers of meaning with each passing year.

'Bohemian Rhapsody' is not just a song but a complex composition that resonates with different parts of the human experience. Whether it's a plea for mercy, a subtle political statement, or a deeply personal expression, the song remains a timeless masterpiece.

Key takeaways:

Freddie Mercury's artistic freedom allowed him to include 'Bismillah' for both cultural and symbolic reasons. The term 'Bismillah' represents a plea for mercy and protection, aligning with the song's themes. 'Bohemian Rhapsody' is a multi-layered song that continues to be analyzed for its deeper meanings.

Through his composition, Freddie Mercury not only created a musical legacy but also left a profound statement on identity, freedom, and the human condition.