Zion by Rudyard Kipling (1921)
The poem contrasts two groups: the Doorkeepers of Zion and the Gatekeepers of Baal. The Doorkeepers, confident in their knowledge and security, enjoy a sense of ease and camaraderie in Zion, a place symbolizing peace and fulfillment. They are depicted as relaxed, able to jest and share moments of joy, embodying a spirit of freedom and fellowship. In stark contrast, the Gatekeepers of Baal are portrayed as restless and tormented, bound to a futile cause. Their existence is marked by anxiety and desperation, as they engage in futile rituals and expressions of frustration. The imagery emphasizes their lack of peace and the burdens of their allegiance to Baal, which brings them no solace. The speaker expresses a desire to embrace the freedom and community found in Zion, choosing to partake in its offerings alongside both the living and the deceased. This choice signifies a rejection of the torment associated with Baal, highlighting a preference for the joy and unity that Zion represents. The poem ultimately celebrates the idea of finding refuge and contentment in a place of spiritual significance, contrasting it with the despair of those who serve a hollow cause.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1921 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical · 263 words
First lines
The Doorkeepers of Zion, They do not always stand In helmet and whole armour, With halberds in their hand, But, being sure of Zion, And all her mysteries, They rest awhile in Zion, Sit down and smile in Zion; Ay, even jest in Zion; In Zion, at their ease.
The Gatekeepers of Baal, They dare not sit or lean, But fume and fret and posture And foam and curse between; For being bound to Baal, Whose sacrifice is vain. Their rest is scant with Baal, They glare and pant for Baal, They mouth and rant for Baal, For Baal in their pain!
What this Textopian page supports
Zion is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1921 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1921 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical, Allegorical, Historical
- Length: 263 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Zion?
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse, employing rhythm and meter typical of poetry.
- Religious — The themes revolve around spiritual concepts, particularly the contrast between Zion and Baal, reflecting religious undertones.
- Philosophical — The text explores deeper meanings of freedom, choice, and community, prompting philosophical reflection.
- Allegorical — The contrasting representations of Zion and Baal serve as allegories for broader moral and existential themes.
Tags
Zion · Rudyard Kipling · poetry · spirituality · freedom · mysticism · sacrifice · comradeship · rest · contrast · Baal · gatekeepers