Which religious movement is criticized in Metallica's “The God That Failed”?

Metallica's “The God That Failed” criticizes Christian Science. The song's subject is connected to James Hetfield's experience after his mother died of cancer while following Christian Science beliefs.

Christian Science is a religious movement founded by Mary Baker Eddy in the nineteenth century. Its teachings emphasize spiritual healing, and some adherents have rejected conventional medical treatment. Hetfield's lyrics address the anger and grief he associated with his mother's refusal of medical care.

The song appeared on Metallica's 1991 self-titled album and was never released as a commercial single. It was among the album's darker and more personal tracks, alongside songs that explored nightmares, alienation, and individual struggle.

The title is sometimes interpreted as a general attack on religion, but the specific background is narrower. The song's documented inspiration concerns Hetfield's mother and Christian Science, making that movement the precise answer rather than a broad term such as Christianity.