Pharrell Williams' Esoteric Lyrics in Missy Elliott's 'Where They From' Spark Online Discussion, Draw Vatican Comparison

Online discussions have emerged regarding the esoteric references within Pharrell Williams' verse in Missy Elliott's 2015 hit single, "WTF (Where They From)." Tweet author Will Spencer highlighted specific lyrics, subsequently drawing a critical comparison to the Vatican. The commentary brings renewed attention to the song's intricate lyrical content and its potential interpretations.

Spencer's tweet specifically quoted lines from Williams' verse, including: "> Click, click, get the picture Hermés Trismegistus Witness and get lifted," and "> The way that I balance the bars I never fall And if I do, I just call The almighty yellow star, God," concluding with, "> And you ain't gotta be a mason to see through Some of this sh*t on occasion." These lines have long been noted for their allusions to various mystical and philosophical traditions.

Music analysts and cultural commentators have previously explored these lyrics, identifying "Hermes Trismegistus" as a legendary figure central to Hermeticism, an ancient tradition of esoteric knowledge. The "almighty yellow star, God" is often interpreted as a reference to the hexagram, a symbol found across various Abrahamic religions and esoteric practices, including the Star of David. Furthermore, the line "you ain't gotta be a mason" is widely seen not as an endorsement of Freemasonry, but rather as an egalitarian message suggesting that profound truths are accessible to all, not just those within secret societies.

Following his lyrical breakdown, Will Spencer added his own critical observation, stating in his tweet, "> Love my Catholic brothers and sisters but honestly? Not exactly out of character for the Vatican lately. Heard?" This personal commentary from Spencer connects the theme of hidden or esoteric understanding to a broader critique of the Vatican, implying a parallel in perceived opacity or controversial actions. The 2015 track, a platinum-certified hit, marked Missy Elliott's return to music, with Williams not only featuring but also producing the single.