Podcast episodes – The Secret History of Western Esotericism Podcast (SHWEP) Becoming Gods: Divinisation and Angelomorphic Transformation in Clement
Jun 12, 2020
Exploring the concept of divinisation and angelomorphic transformation in Clement, discussing the assimilation of humans to a godlike state and encountering God face-to-face. Examining the significance of the Ogdoad in the soul's ability to ascend through the spheres. Exploring the use of tokens and ritualized practices in cosmic ascent. Delving into the concept of ascending souls, universal salvation, and the process of spiritual evolution.
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Plato Shapes Clement’s Deification Idea
- Clement draws on Plato and middle Platonists to argue humans can be assimilated to godlike states either in life or after death.
- This background frames his discussion of deification, angelic likeness, and post-mortem destiny in Christian terms.
Scripture Permits Talking Of Humans As 'Gods'
- Christian scripture gives precedents that complicate strict Creator/creation separation and allow talk of humans as 'gods' or angel-like after death.
- Clement uses these scriptural lines to justify a Christianized divinization model rather than rejecting such language outright.
Vision Of God As An Esoteric Promise
- Clement treats 1 Corinthians 13:12 and related texts as eschatological and initiatory, promising face-to-face vision of God for an elite now or after death.
- He couches this teaching in mystery-language to keep it esoteric and reserved for a select few.