There is a famous poem by William Blake that goes by the name ‘The Lamb’. Some of us may have read it in school, while others may have come across it in literature courses or poetic anthologies. Regardless of how we were introduced to the poem, there is one aspect of it that has always intrigued us – the symbol of the lamb. For most people, lambs are just fluffy, adorable animals that frolic in meadows. However, in ‘The Lamb’, Blake uses the lamb as a powerful symbol that represents something much deeper than its fluffy exterior.
Blake’s ‘The Lamb’ is a short and simple poem that is often considered one of the most beautiful poems in the English language. The poem’s lyrical style and the use of the lamb as a symbol creates an enchanting atmosphere that transports the reader to a place of wonder and awe. But what does the lamb symbolize in ‘The Lamb’? According to Blake, the lamb is not just a cute and cuddly animal but a symbol of divinity, innocence, and purity. The lamb represents Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the Lamb of God in the Christian faith.
As we examine Blake’s use of the lamb as a symbol, we begin to notice the intricate layers of meaning that he has woven into the poem. Blake evokes a sense of wonder and mystery as he asks questions about the lamb’s creation and acknowledges the presence of a divine creator. In doing so, he elevates the lamb from a simple animal to a symbol of spirituality with deep theological implications. For Blake, the lamb is more than just a symbol – it is a portal to a higher realm of consciousness and a reminder of our connection to the divine.
Innocence
In William Blake’s poem, “The Lamb,” the central symbol is, of course, the lamb. This innocent creature is used to represent many different things throughout the poem. The most prominent, however, is innocence itself. The lamb represents the purity and simplicity that we associate with children, with the prelapsarian era in the biblical book of Genesis, and with the Christian idea of the Garden of Eden.
- At the start of the poem, the little lamb is described as “softest clothing wooly bright.” This image highlights the lamb’s softness and gentleness, -two qualities that are hallmarks of innocence.
- Similarly, the lamb is described as a “meek” and “mild” creature. These adjectives suggest that the lamb is not aggressive or violent, but rather is submissive and gentle. Such passivity is often associated with innocence, which is usually portrayed as a state of vulnerability.
- Finally, the poem repeatedly emphasizes the fact that the lamb is “made by the same one who made the tiger.” This raises an interesting contrast between the innocence of the lamb and the ferocity of the tiger. Through this juxtaposition, Blake suggests that the lamb represents something that is antithetical to violence and aggression: innocence and purity.
Overall, then, the lamb in “The Lamb” is used to represent innocence. Through its gentleness, its meekness, and its association with purity, the lamb stands in contrast to other symbols in Blake’s poetry that represent danger and violence. In this way, the lamb serves to reinforce the poem’s message of innocence and virtue.
Purity
One of the most prominent symbolisms of the lamb in “The Lamb” is purity. In Christianity, lambs are often associated with purity and innocence, which is why Jesus Christ is referred to as the “Lamb of God.” This is because he was seen as pure and without sin, much like a lamb. In the poem, the lamb also symbolizes purity and serves as a representation of God’s innocence and goodness.
- The lamb’s wool, as described in the poem, is clean and white, which represents purity.
- The child, who speaks to the lamb, is also seen as innocent and pure.
- The lamb is described as being meek and mild, which is a common trait of purity and innocence.
Moreover, the lamb is often used to symbolize the innocence of youth and the purity of nature. The image of a lamb grazing in a field represents the simplicity and peace that can be found in nature. This is further emphasized in the poem through the use of imagery and language that highlights the beauty and purity of the lamb. The poem signifies the beauty of innocence in the lamb and the child-like purity that God desires from humanity.
In summary, the lamb in “The Lamb” is a symbolic representation of purity and innocence. The clean and white wool and the meek and mild portrayal of the lamb illustrate the purity of youth, nature, and God, which is essential in understanding the message behind the poem.
Sacrifice
The lamb is also seen as a symbol of sacrifice, which is a prominent theme in religious and cultural traditions. In Christianity, the lamb represents Jesus Christ, who sacrificed himself for the forgiveness of sins. The lamb in ‘The Lamb’ can be interpreted as a representation of Christ’s sacrifice.
- The lamb is often used as a sacrificial animal in various religious rites and traditions, including Judaism and Islam. Its sacrifice is seen as an act of devotion and obedience to the divine.
- The act of sacrificing a lamb or any animal is also linked to the idea of atonement, where the death of the animal symbolically absolves the sins of the people.
- Moreover, in ancient cultures like the Greeks and Romans, the lamb was often used as an offering to appease the gods. Sacrificing a lamb was seen as a way to gain favor and protection from the deities.
The theme of sacrifice in ‘The Lamb’ can be seen through the imagery of the lamb as innocent and pure, just like Christ. The poem also presents the lamb as a symbol of selflessness and willingness to give oneself up for a higher purpose.
In summary, the lamb as a symbol of sacrifice represents the act of giving up something precious for the benefit of others. It is a theme that resonates across cultures and religions, and is often associated with devotion, atonement, and divine favor.
| Themes | Lamb as a symbol |
|---|---|
| Sacrifice | The lamb represents the act of giving oneself up for a higher purpose. |
| Innocence | The lamb is seen as innocent and pure. |
| Divine | The lamb is associated with divinity and is often used as an offering to the gods. |
The table summarizes the different themes associated with the lamb as a symbol.
Christ
As a symbol of Christ, the lamb represents innocence, purity, sacrifice, and redemption. These are all qualities embodied by Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the “Lamb of God” in the Bible. The number 4, which is significant in the Christian religion, also has a connection to the lamb symbol.
- In the book of Revelation, there are four living creatures who surround the throne of God and offer worship.
- These creatures are described as having the faces of a lion, an ox, a man, and an eagle, which represent the four Gospels in the New Testament.
- The lamb is also mentioned in the Gospel of John, where it is said that John the Baptist saw Jesus coming towards him and proclaimed, “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
The lamb as a symbol of Christ can also be seen in the traditional image of the “Lamb of God” carrying a banner with a cross, which is often depicted in Christian art. Additionally, the sacrifice of a lamb was a common practice in the Old Testament as a way to atone for sins, and is seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice made by Christ on the cross.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Lamb | Innocence, purity, sacrifice, and redemption. |
| Four living creatures | Surround the throne of God and represent the four Gospels in the New Testament. |
| Lamb of God | A title given to Jesus Christ as the one who takes away the sin of the world. |
The lamb as a symbol of Christ is a powerful reminder of the sacrificial love that Jesus demonstrated in his life and death and continues to offer to humanity. Its association with the number 4 also underscores the importance of the Gospels in Christian faith and the role they play in our understanding of Christ as the embodiment of God’s love and grace.
Meekness
One of the most significant symbolic meanings of the lamb in Blake’s poem “The Lamb” is meekness. The poem describes the creature as “meek and mild,” and it is this quality that is most commonly associated with lambs in literature and art.
Meekness is a trait that is highly valued in many cultures and religions, and it is often contrasted with pride, which is seen as a negative quality. In Christianity, for example, Jesus is described as being meek and humble, and meekness is listed as one of the beatitudes in the Sermon on the Mount.
- Meekness is a trait that is often associated with vulnerability, and it is therefore sometimes seen as a weakness.
- However, in many traditions, meekness is a strength rather than a weakness, and it is seen as a way of demonstrating humility and respect for others.
- Meekness is also associated with forgiveness, as meek people are often more willing to let go of grudges and forgive those who have wronged them.
Meekness is an important theme in Blake’s poetry, and it is often contrasted with the qualities of pride and ambition. In “The Lamb,” the lamb’s meekness is contrasted with the tiger’s fierce and powerful nature. This juxtaposition of the gentle and the fierce serves to heighten the impact of the poem and to reinforce the idea that meekness is a valuable quality that should be cherished and celebrated.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Lamb | Meekness |
| Tiger | Fierceness and power |
Overall, meekness is a key symbolic meaning of the lamb in Blake’s poetry. It is a trait that is valued across cultures and religions, and it is often associated with humility and respect for others. In “The Lamb,” the lamb’s meekness is contrasted with the tiger’s fierce nature, serving to highlight the importance of this quality and to reinforce its value.
Humility
One of the main symbols that the lamb represents is humility. It is a common belief that the lamb is a humble creature that lacks any aggressive or dominant behavior. This is particularly evident in William Blake’s poem “The Lamb” where the speaker admires the lamb’s gentle nature and describes it as a creature that is full of innocence and purity.
- The lamb’s meekness: One of the most prominent characteristics of the lamb is its meekness. This trait is often associated with humility since the lamb does not fight back or resist when confronted by other animals or people. This is evident in the poem when the speaker asks the lamb, “Little Lamb, who made thee? Dost thou know who made thee?” The lamb’s response is one of docility, “Little Lamb, I’ll tell thee, Little Lamb, I’ll tell thee.”
- The lamb’s vulnerability: Another aspect of the lamb that symbolizes humility is its vulnerability. The lamb is generally seen as a weak and defenseless animal that needs protection and care. It relies on its mother’s milk for nourishment and requires a shepherd’s guidance to survive. This is comparable to the human condition, where we all need help and support from others to thrive. In the poem, the speaker marvels at how the lamb is clothed in “softest clothing, woolly, bright.” This emphasizes the lamb’s dependence on others for protection and sustenance.
- The lamb’s purity: The lamb’s purity is another symbol of its humility. The lamb is untainted by the sins and vices of the world. It represents innocence and goodness. The lamb is often seen as a sacrificial animal, which reinforces its purity. This is seen in the Bible where Jesus Christ is referred to as the “Lamb of God” who is sacrificed for the sins of humanity. In the poem, the speaker asks the lamb if it knows who made it and marvels at its creation. This highlights the idea that the lamb is a divine creation that represents purity and goodness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the lamb is a symbol of humility that represents meekness, vulnerability, and purity. It reflects the essence of innocence and goodness that is often associated with children. William Blake’s poem “The Lamb” reinforces these symbols by portraying the lamb as a gentle creature that is full of grace and beauty. The lamb’s humility is a reminder that the most precious qualities in life often come in the simplest of forms.
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
| Meekness | The lamb’s lack of aggression or dominance |
| Vulnerability | The lamb’s dependence on others for protection and sustenance |
| Purity | The lamb’s untainted nature that represents innocence and goodness |
These symbols work together to create a powerful image of the lamb as a humble and graceful creature that reflects the essence of purity and goodness.
Gentleness
One of the primary symbols associated with the lamb in “The Lamb” by William Blake is gentleness. Throughout the poem, the lamb is depicted as a gentle creature with a kind and innocent nature. This is emphasized through the repeated use of words like “softest”, “tender”, and “meek”.
This gentle nature is also linked to the religious symbolism of the lamb in Christianity and other faiths. In the Christian tradition, Jesus is often referred to as the “Lamb of God”, who sacrificed himself to save humanity from sin and death. The lamb is therefore associated with purity, innocence, and sacrifice. This religious symbolism adds to the overall theme of gentleness and kindness in the poem.
The Number 7
- Another interesting symbol associated with the lamb in “The Lamb” is the number seven.
- The poem uses the phrase “little lamb” seven times, which may represent the seven days of creation in the Bible.
- Additionally, in some religious traditions, the number seven is considered to be a divine number with special significance.
Humble and Innocent Nature
The gentle and innocent nature of the lamb is further emphasized through its humble physical appearance. The lamb is described as having “clothing of delight” and a “tender voice”. These descriptions paint a picture of a small, gentle creature that is harmless and pure.
The lamb’s humble and innocent nature is also reflected in its relationship with the speaker of the poem. The speaker is clearly fond of the lamb and sees it as a symbol of all that is good and pure in the world. This creates a sense of intimacy and warmth between the speaker and the lamb, which adds to the poem’s overall message of kindness and love.
The Lamb as a Sacrifice
Finally, the lamb symbolizes sacrifice in “The Lamb”. This is brought out through the repeated references to the lamb being “made” and “by the stream & o’er the mead”. These phrases suggest that the lamb was created for a specific purpose – to be a sacrifice for human beings.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Lamb | Purity, innocence, sacrifice |
| Gentleness | Innocence, kindness, love |
| Number 7 | Divine number, reference to creation |
This sacrificial symbolism is linked to the Christian tradition of sacrifice, particularly the idea of sacrifice as a way to atone for sins and become closer to God. It also adds a sense of poignancy to the poem, as the speaker reflects on the lamb’s fate and the sacrifice it represents.
Faith
One of the main themes in “The Lamb” is faith, and the lamb is a powerful symbol of that faith. Throughout the poem, the speaker asks the lamb questions, such as “Little Lamb, who made thee?” and “Little Lamb, I’ll tell thee, / He is called by thy name, / For he calls himself a Lamb.” These questions and answers are meant to represent the speaker’s own faith in a higher power or creator.
- The number 8, in Christian numerology, is often associated with rebirth and renewal. This connects to the idea of faith in “The Lamb,” as the speaker sees the lamb as a symbol of spiritual renewal and rebirth.
- The lamb is also a symbol of innocence, another important aspect of faith. In many religious traditions, innocence is associated with purity and goodness, and is seen as a key component of a strong faith.
- Additionally, the lamb is often used as a sacrificial animal in many religious rituals. This connects to the Christian belief in Jesus as the sacrificial lamb, whose death and resurrection represent the ultimate act of faith and redemption.
The following table shows the number 8 in various religious beliefs:
| Religion | Meaning of 8 |
|---|---|
| Christianity | Rebirth and renewal |
| Buddhism | The Eightfold Path |
| Judaism | The number of days of the Hanukkah festival |
| Islam | The eight doors of heaven |
In conclusion, the lamb is a powerful symbol of faith in “The Lamb,” and the number 8 is also connected to this theme through its association with rebirth, renewal, and other spiritual concepts. Through the use of these symbols, Blake is able to convey a deeply spiritual message about the nature of faith and the role it plays in our lives.
Redemption
One of the main themes explored in “The Lamb” is redemption. The lamb symbolizes innocence and purity, and through its sacrifice, it is believed to redeem humanity of its sins. The poem speaks of a child who asks the lamb if it knows who has created it, to which the lamb replies that it was created by the same one who created the child. This highlights the idea that all creatures, both human and animal, are created by a benevolent creator who seeks to offer redemption to them.
- Moreover, the lamb is often associated with Jesus Christ, who is referred to as the “Lamb of God” in Christian tradition. Jesus is believed to have sacrificed himself to redeem humanity of its sins, just as the lamb in the poem sacrifices itself to serve as a symbol of redemption.
- Also, the number nine in the poem can be seen as representative of the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit, which are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These fruits are believed to be the result of the Holy Spirit’s work in the lives of believers, and they serve as evidence of a redeemed life. Thus, the number nine can be seen as representing redemption and the transformation of a life from one of sin and darkness to one of righteousness and light.
- Finally, the poem suggests that redemption is available to all, regardless of social status or wealth. The lamb is a simple creature, yet it offers the possibility of redemption to all who seek it. Similarly, Jesus Christ offers salvation to all who believe in him, regardless of their station in life.
The Number Nine
The number nine appears several times in “The Lamb,” and it carries significant meaning. In Christian tradition, the number nine is associated with the Holy Spirit and is seen as a symbol of completeness or perfection. This is because the Holy Spirit is believed to have nine fruits, as mentioned earlier. The repetition of the number nine in the poem reinforces the idea of redemption and the transformative power of God’s grace.
| Instances of the number nine in the poem | Meaning/Significance |
|---|---|
| “He is called by thy name, /For he calls himself a Lamb” (lines 8-9) | The repetition of “he” and “thy” creates a pattern of three threes, emphasizing the completeness and perfection associated with the number nine. |
| “He is called by thy name, /For he calls himself a Lamb” (lines 8-9) | The reference to the lamb as being called by the child’s name reinforces the idea of the lamb serving as a symbol of redemption for all. |
| “He is called by thy name, /For he calls himself a Lamb” (lines 8-9) | The use of the word “himself” to describe the lamb implies a sense of self-awareness, which further emphasizes the idea of the lamb as a willing sacrifice. |
| “He is called by thy name, /For he calls himself a Lamb” (lines 8-9) | The repetition of the phrase “called by thy name” serves as a reminder that God knows us each personally and intimately, and that redemption is available to all. |
In conclusion, “The Lamb” uses the symbol of the lamb to explore the theme of redemption. The repetition of the number nine serves to reinforce the idea of the transformative power of God’s grace and the completeness associated with redemption. Through the poem, readers are reminded that redemption is available to all who seek it, regardless of their status or station in life.
Salvation
In “The Lamb,” the lamb is a symbol of salvation. The speaker asks the innocent lamb if it knows who made it, and then tells the lamb that it was made by the same one who made the tiger, another animal mentioned in the poem. By acknowledging that the same creator made both the gentle lamb and the fierce tiger, the speaker emphasizes the duality and complexity of creation. The lamb symbolizes a peaceful, innocent creature created by a benevolent higher power, providing hope for salvation and a better future.
- The lamb represents purity and innocence, qualities necessary for salvation. By following the example of the lamb and embodying these qualities, humans can achieve redemption.
- The lamb also represents sacrifice and is often associated with Jesus, who is referred to as the Lamb of God in the Bible. Jesus sacrificed himself for the salvation of humanity, and the lamb can be seen as a reminder of that sacrifice and the possibility of redemption through it.
- In some interpretations, the lamb can be seen as a substitute for a human sacrifice, a concept prevalent in various religious traditions. The idea of a substitute sacrifice leads towards the belief in vicarious atonement, where someone else can pay the price for the sins of others and thereby provide salvation.
Overall, the lamb in “The Lamb” represents hope for salvation and a better future, a symbol of the pure and innocent nature of creation created by a benevolent higher power.
Here is a table detailing potential interpretations of the lamb symbol:
| Interpretation | Description |
|---|---|
| Purity and innocence | The lamb represents the qualities necessary for salvation. |
| Sacrifice | The lamb is associated with Jesus, who sacrificed himself for the salvation of humanity. |
| Substitute sacrifice | The lamb symbolizes a substitute for human sacrifice, leading towards vicarious atonement. |
Overall, the lamb’s role in “The Lamb” reinforces the hope of salvation and the belief in a higher power that creates, protects, and redeems.
FAQs About What Does the Lamb Symbolize in “The Lamb”
1. What does the lamb represent in “The Lamb”?
In “The Lamb,” the lamb represents innocence and purity. William Blake uses the animal as a symbol of the simplicity and gentleness of childhood.
2. What is the significance of the lamb’s creator being a child in “The Lamb”?
The significance of the lamb’s creator being a child in “The Lamb” is that it emphasizes the purity and innocence of the lamb. By showing that the lamb’s creator is a child, Blake reinforces the idea that the lamb represents the simplicity and gentleness of childhood.
3. What does the speaker ask the lamb in “The Lamb”?
In “The Lamb,” the speaker asks the lamb if it knows who its creator is. This question helps to reinforce the idea that the lamb represents innocence and purity, as the lamb seems to be unaware of anything beyond its own experience.
4. What is the tone of “The Lamb”?
The tone of “The Lamb” is gentle and peaceful. William Blake’s use of simple language and imagery creates a calm, serene atmosphere that reinforces the idea of the lamb as a symbol of innocence and purity.
5. What are some literary devices used in “The Lamb”?
Some literary devices used in “The Lamb” include repetition, alliteration, and imagery. These devices help to create a sense of rhythm and musicality, as well as reinforce the idea of the lamb as a gentle, peaceful symbol of innocence.
6. Why do some readers interpret “The Lamb” as a religious poem?
Some readers interpret “The Lamb” as a religious poem because of its references to Christianity and the idea of God as a loving creator. Additionally, the lamb itself is a symbol of Christ in many Christian traditions, further reinforcing the religious themes of the poem.
7. What is the message of “The Lamb”?
The message of “The Lamb” is that innocence and purity are important values that should be cherished and protected. William Blake uses the lamb as a symbol of these values, and encourages the reader to appreciate the simplicity and gentleness of childhood.
Thanks for Reading!
We hope this article has helped you to better understand the symbolism of the lamb in “The Lamb.” Remember to cherish the innocence and purity of childhood, just like William Blake’s gentle and peaceful poem encourages us to do. Don’t forget to visit again later for more literary insights and analysis!