For The Greater Good of God

Album: A Matter of Life and Death (2006)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This song is about religious fundamentalism and fanaticism. Written by Maiden bass player Steve Harris, it's typical of his epic songwriting, with a long instrumental part leading to blinding solos. The lyrics are a sharp criticism of those spreading extreme religious views from various confessions. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Ryan - Bethany, OK
  • Steve Harris talked about this song in a 2018 interview with Planet Rock: "I've always loved prog rock, I grew up on it. Having songs like this in the set, the big, epic, dramatic songs, offers a good counterpoint to the more aggressive songs. We do a two-hour set every night, so you have to have different dynamics, because neither us nor the audience can be jumping around the whole time."

Comments: 3

  • Eternal1976 from S.d.In these trying times....a.k.a. the end times this song is so fitting for all the bulls--t that's going on with the war with Ukraine and Russia. I am in no way political at all.

    To answer your question Chris, religion was never ment to be. A relationship with Jesus Christ is the only way to go. If you own a Bible look at John 14:6

    Religion gets in the way....and weather different "religions" or not, not all of them serve the same God. Some are occults that try their hardest to lead you astray, and pull you into their legalism. Just speaking truth brother.
    God bless.
  • Willie from Scottsdale, AzAd Majorem Dei Gloriam is the motto of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits).
  • Chris from Tennessee, TnThis song asks two questions: Why do Religions with the same God fight each other, and which one of these religions did God intend for us to follow?
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Philip Cody

Philip CodySongwriter Interviews

A talented lyricist, Philip helped revive Neil Sedaka's career with the words to "Laughter In The Rain" and "Bad Blood."

Michael Franti

Michael FrantiSongwriter Interviews

Franti tells the story behind his hit "Say Hey (I Love You)" and explains why yoga is an integral part of his lifestyle and his Soulshine tour.

Graham Parker

Graham ParkerSongwriter Interviews

When Judd Apatow needed under-appreciated rockers for his Knocked Up sequel, he immediately thought of Parker, who just happened to be getting his band The Rumour back together.

Dennis DeYoung

Dennis DeYoungSongwriter Interviews

Dennis DeYoung explains why "Mr. Roboto" is the defining Styx song, and what the "gathering of angels" represents in "Come Sail Away."

Chris Frantz of Talking Heads

Chris Frantz of Talking HeadsSongwriter Interviews

Talking Heads drummer Chris Frantz on where the term "new wave" originated, the story of "Naive Melody," and why they never recorded another cover song after "Take Me To The River."

Dar Williams

Dar WilliamsSongwriter Interviews

A popular contemporary folk singer, Williams still remembers the sticky note that changed her life in college.