A Word to Conjure With: On ‘Theurgy’ in Late Antiquity and Beyond
Jan 26, 2022
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Exploring the multifaceted meaning of 'Theurgy' in Western esotericism, including its interpretations by figures such as the Chaldean oracles, Porphyry, Yamblicus, and Giordano Bruno. The podcast also discusses its usage in Freemasonry, occultism, and 19th-century esotericism. The concept of Theurgy throughout history is explored, including Latinate Angelic Addressive Practices, Jesus's Theurgic Powers, and Elizabethan Magus's angelic communication. The evolution and interpretation of Theurgy in Western Esotericism is examined, as well as its connection to the goal of not being subject to fate in Late Antiquity. The distinction between Theorgia and Goetheia is clarified, and the debate on whether Theurgy should be considered magic or a new religious movement is discussed.
The term 'theurgy' has evolved over time, with interpretations ranging from magical rituals to a new form of esoteric revelatory religion.
Scholars emphasize the importance of examining original sources to refine our understanding of ancient theurgy and its relationship with broader philosophical, religious, and cultural developments in late antiquity.
Deep dives
Theurgi as a word to conjure with in Western Esotericism
The podcast explores the term 'theurgy' and its significance in Western Esotericism. The term 'theurgy' has been used in various contexts throughout history, but its meaning evolves depending on the time period and the individual using it. It has been associated with ritual practices aimed at elevating the soul and connecting with the divine. Different thinkers and scholars have offered their interpretations of theurgy, ranging from seeing it as magic with a philosophical underpinning to considering it a new religion. The significance and understanding of theurgy have varied over time, evolving alongside the developments in Western Esotericism and scholarly interpretations.
The Origins and Evolution of Theurgy
The episode delves into the origins of the term 'theurgy' and its early appearances in ancient texts. Theurgy is believed to have emerged in the Chaldean Oracles, although the surviving fragments do not explicitly mention the term. Various ancient philosophers and scholars, including Porphyry and Yamblicus, contributed to defining the concept of theurgy. Their interpretations ranged from the idea of ritual practices aimed at inviting gods to elevate the soul to considering theurgy as a means of achieving mystical union. The term's meaning continued to evolve throughout late antiquity, influenced by philosophical, religious, and cultural shifts.
Scholarly Interpretations and Debates on Theurgy
Scholarly interpretations of theurgy have sparked debates and discussions. Some scholars argue that theurgy is synonymous with magic, albeit with a philosophical foundation, while others propose that it represents a religious movement or a new form of esoteric revelatory religion. The debates center around the understanding of the term, its relationship with ritual practices, and its role in addressing changing religious needs in late antiquity. Scholars have questioned the continuity between the Chaldean oracles and the philosophical explanations of theurgists like Yamblicus, highlighting the challenges in defining the term and its significance accurately.
Reevaluating Theurgy and the Influence of Yamblicus
The podcast emphasizes the need to revisit the study of theurgy, considering the limitations and complexities associated with the term. Modern scholars have taken minimalist approaches and questioned the assumptions made about the continuity and nature of theurgy. They have emphasized the importance of examining original sources, such as Yamblicus' explanations in the De Mysteriis, which provide detailed insights into the theory and practices of theurgy. By scrutinizing these sources, scholars aim to refine their understanding of ancient theurgy and its relationship with broader philosophical, religious, and cultural developments in late antiquity.
We talk about theurgy: what, where, when, and, indeed, how? It's more complicated than we thought. Come for the Chaldæan Oracles, stay for the Technical Brutal Death Metal.
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