Author PD Newman discusses theurgic history, theory, and practice spanning topics such as pre-Socratics, Homeric epics, Hermetism, Alchemy, Chaldean Hekate, Gnosticism, and much more.
Theurgy involves mimicking ancient rituals and symbolic acts to connect with the divine.
Hermes plays a crucial role as an aid in theurgical practices, bridging the gap between realms.
Death rituals serve as symbolic deaths and rebirths, allowing the soul to ascend to higher realms.
Deep dives
The Concept of Theurgy
Theurgy is the practice of ascending the soul to unite with a deity or divine realm. It involves mimicking ancient rituals and performing symbolic acts to connect with the divine.
The Role of Hermes in Theurgy
Hermes is an essential figure in theurgical practices. He is seen as the angel of Zeus and the embodiment of beauty. Hermes bridges the gap between different realms and acts as an aid to those seeking divine connection in their daily lives.
The Concept of Death Rituals in Theurgy
Death rituals are an integral part of theurgical practices. They act as a symbolic death and rebirth, allowing the soul to ascend to higher realms. The story of Achilles performing funeral rites for Patroclus in the Homeric epics embodies this concept of theurgical transformation.
Cleansing and Sacramental Offerings in Theurgy
Cleansing rituals and sacramental offerings are important elements in theurgical practices. The use of winds and pouring offerings to purify the soul vehicle and symbolize the ascent of the soul. Achilles pouring wine and performing a ceremonial feast during Patroclus' funeral illustrate these aspects of theurgical rituals.
Theurgic Ritual: Understanding the Process of Soul Transmutation
The podcast episode explores the concept of theurgic ritual and its parallels with alchemy and theology. It mentions the use of specific objects, such as the mixing bowl, in the practice of animating statues. The discussion highlights the goal of capturing pure forms and purging everything except the essential essence. The act of ascending through the planetary heavens and shedding both virtues and vices is also explored. The episode emphasizes the importance of participating in natural cycles and integrating oneself with the rhythms of the world.
Divination and Oracles in Theurgy
The episode delves into the role of divination and oracles in theurgy. It mentions the use of oracles as divine utterances from the gods and the connection between oracular stories and statements. The discussion covers the Homero Montion, an oracle associated with Homer's divine utterances, and its use of dice as a method of divination. The importance of chance and synchronicity in oracles is highlighted, along with the potential for altering fate through sacrifices and supplication to specific gods. The episode concludes with guidance for those aspiring to establish an effective theurgic practice, which includes embracing natural cycles, foraging, and learning about the sacred significance of plants in one's region.
We had an extremely interesting discussion with author PD Newman pertaining to theurgic history, theory and practice spanning topics such as the pre-Socratics, the Homeric epics, Hermetism, Alchemy, Chaldean Hekate, Gnosticism, and much more.
