Why Does Black Adam Yell 'Shazam'?

Black Adam, a character from DC Comics, is often seen yelling a phrase that is both a call to power and a reflection of his shared lineage with another iconic figure, Captain Marvel (Shazam). This practice is not unique to Black Adam, as it is also employed by his alter ego, Billy Batson, to transform into his superhero form. However, the reasons behind this action and the history surrounding it are worth exploring in detail.

Invoking Power Through 'Shazam'

When Black Adam says the famous phrase, 'Solomon wisdom, Hercules strength, Atlas stamina, Zeus power, Achilles courage, Mercury speed,' it is a reference to the gods and heroes from which his powers draw inspiration. This invocation is a key part of his transformation into his full magical form, allowing him to tap into incredible abilities. Similarly, when Billy Batson says 'Shazam,' it triggers a similar transformation, each time calling down a powerful lightning bolt from the sky.

Breaking Down the Invocation

Solomon wisdom: Referring to King Solomon, known for his wisdom and intelligence.

Hercules strength: The demigod associated with superhuman strength and quintessential heroism.

Atlas stamina: The Titan who supported the heavens, symbolizing incredible endurance and resilience.

Zeus power: The king of the gods in Greek mythology, representing unparalleled power and divine authority.

Achilles courage: The legendary Greek warrior, renowned for his bravery and heroism.

Mercury speed: The messenger god, known for his speed and agility.

Summoning Power and Transforming

Both Black Adam and Billy Batson use this invocation to either summon the living lightning, which they then use in combat, or to transform into their respective superhero forms. The phrase serves a dual purpose: it both invokes the power and symbolizes the transformation that follows.

In the original DC Comics, the spell typically changed the characters back into their powerless forms. However, with the progression of the storyline, especially in the 1996 Kingdom Come miniseries, a new trick was introduced. By dodging the lightning and letting it hit someone else, Black Adam could avoid reverting to his powerless state. This added an extra layer of complexity and strategy to his use of the invocation, making it a crucial part of his combat techniques.

The Legacy of Shazam

The term 'Shazam' is central to both Black Adam's and Billy Batson's powers, but it holds a deeper meaning beyond just the spell. Shazam, the wizard who granted these powers to both Black Adam and Captain Marvel (Billy Batson), is the key figure in this mythology. His teachings and the principles he imparted continue to influence the characters and their moral compasses.

During the early days of DC Comics, Black Adam was often portrayed as an anti-hero, breaking away from the typical heroic roles. Due to this and other actions, Shazam decided to find a new hero with a pure heart. This led to the selection of Billy Batson as the new bearer of these incredible powers, carrying out a mission of heroism and moral integrity.

Evolution of the Storyline

As of 2022, the character of Shazam is referred to as Captain Marvel in the modern comics. The name change represents a shift in the broader narrative, although the core principles and powers remain the same.

It's important to note that new information about these characters can be added to online sources, and this answer was last updated on June 23, 2022. Any updates or new findings should be considered and added to keep the information current.

Conclusion

The invocation of Shazam serves as a powerful reminder of the legacy and the essence of these iconic characters. It bridges the past and the present, connecting the characters of Black Adam and Billy Batson through their shared origins and destinies. The phrase is more than just a magical incantation; it is a testament to the enduring power and spirit of these heroes.