Pneuma

About this song

The song's title comes from an ancient Greek word meaning "breath", which in a religious context can also mean "spirit" or "soul". The idea of the spirit as something greater than the physical body runs through the singer's lyrics across his career, and it is also visible in the abstractions on Lateralus.

What it's about

The song reminds listeners that a person is more than the physical body, urging them to recognize the spirit or soul as more important than what can be seen and experienced. It asks people to open their eyes and see the bigger picture of their own spirits.

Fun facts

• Sampled in 1 other song, like “I’m Seeking Some Form of Forgiveness That Can Only Be Granted by Some Sort of Unfounded Higher Power That I Have Been and Am Currently Looking For by Tarbelo”.
• Written by Justin Chancellor, Danny Carey, Adam Jones and Maynard James Keenan.
• Produced by Tool, Mat Mitchell, Andrew Means and Tim Dawson.
• Recorded at Henson Recording Studios - Los Angeles.