The Lord said, “Isaiah, write this down;
Write Maher-shalal-hash-baz –
means swift destruction, plunder and spoil,
does Maher-shalal-hash-baz.”
But Lord, things bumble nicely along.
Why Maher-shalal-hash-baz ?
Our trade is good, our currency strong!
The Lord said: “Look, this won’t last long.”
But Lord, why say that things are so wrong?
Our country is a groovy place, have you got it wrong?
Why Maher-shalal-hash-baz? Why Maher-shalal-hash-baz?
Isaiah’s wife then gave birth – what joy!
A boy! What should they call him?
Said God, “I’ve just the name for your boy!
It’s Maher-shalal-hash-baz.”
No, surely not! You’re joking! Good Lord!
Not Maher-shalal-hash-baz!
The Lord said,”Look, disturb their peace
and startle folks that they may cease
endulging greed; demanding increase.
They don’t know the things that really make for their peace!
Shout Maher-shalal-hash-baz! Shout Maher-shalal-hash-baz!”
“Though they have ears, and eyes to see,
I’ll Maher-shalal-bash-them.
They worship, but their heart’s far from me;
I’ll Maher-shalal-bash-them.
My people, listen! Reason with me,
and let us talk together.
You live good lives, do what you please
and take no thought to care, or ease
the pain and grief of all those in need.
You don’t know the things that really make for your peace!
Oh Maher-shalal-hash-baz! Woe Maher-shalal-hash-baz!”
© GNU Productions 1996