“Rapture” is the final in a series of sporadic episodes in which Sisko increasingly embraces his role as the Emissary. By default, it features the most overt religious themes of the series and trek in general. Highly unusual, considering trek’s death grip on secularism as mankind’s salvation. I think it is refreshing because it is so different than anything that has come before.Sisko requests an ancient Bajoran artifact being returned from the Cardassians to the Bajorans take a detour through the station so he can study it. Shades of Picard’s interest in archeology, but much more personal. Sisko’s attachment to the fate of Bajor has never been more clear. He becomes obsessed with studying the artifact in order to discern the location of an ancient city lost for 20,000 years.
An accident causes his senses to be heightened enough to receive what he believes are visions from the past and future. Through them, hediscovers the ancient city, solidifying his role as Emissary even to Kai Winn. But the visions are causing degenerative brain damage. He refuses surgery to repair the damage, lest he lose the visions.
Sisko eventually collapses after insisting Bajor not sign the treaty admitting them into the Federation. Even though he does not want the surgery, Jake, as his next of kin, gives Bashir consent when his father falls into a coma. Sisko is saved and even though he regrets losing the visions, is confident delaying Bajor’s entry into the Federation is the right choice.
Two points about this episode. One, Kassidy Yates returns after serving six moths for aiding the Maquis. She and the Siskos show signs of forming a happy family more prominently than ever before. Two, the grey on black uniforms make their first appearance on the series. They are my favorite style of Trek uniform. The dark colors go well with the more bleak tone of Star Trek: First Contact and the Dominion War.
I have always liked "Rapture” because it stands out so much from the rest of the series and Trek in general. It is nice to see a spiritual counterpoint presented as a positive alternative to the often obnoxious secularism trek usually preaches. Such episodes are not usually popular among fans, but I take them when I can get them.
Rating; *** (out of 5)
