Total War: Polemical Esotericism in the Contra Celsum
Sep 2, 2020
auto_awesome
Exploring the polemics and counter-polemics of Origen's Contra Celsum, discussing the use of esotericism as a weapon, clash between Kelsus and Origin, criticisms of Christians, Kelsus' neoplatonist critique, historical framework and cyclical catastrophism, accusations against Christians and Jesus, the debate on esotericism in late antiquity.
The podcast explores the use of esotericism as a strategy of tradition-building and exclusion in the Contra Celsum.
The debate between Origin and Kelsus highlights the clash between different conceptions of truth and knowledge in late antiquity.
Deep dives
The Battle between Origin and Kelsus in the Contra Kelsom
This podcast episode explores the fierce debate between Origin and Kelsus in the Contra Kelsom. Kelsus criticizes Christianity for its use of esotericism, claiming that they misunderstand and misinterpret the hidden meanings in various texts. Origin, on the other hand, argues that the Christians are actually skilled esotericists. He points to the writings of Moses and the Christian scriptures as examples of esoteric teachings hidden beneath surface meanings. Both thinkers utilize esoteric reading to defend their positions and to uncover deeper truths. The debate also touches on doctrinal differences, the concept of monotheism, the eternity of the world, and cultural attacks on the Christians, with each thinker offering their own perspective and interpretations.
The Rise of Totalizing Discourses of Truth in Late Antiquity
Another key theme discussed in the podcast episode is the emergence of totalizing discourses of truth during late antiquity. Kelsus and Origin engage in a polemic about the philosophical and intellectual authority of their respective traditions. Kelsus argues for a traditional aristocracy of intellect, where the educated elite possess the true knowledge and are the only reliable guides for understanding doctrine. Origin counters this by asserting that Christians also engage in esoteric practices and possess divine revelation that grants them access to ultimate truth. This discussion highlights the clash between different conceptions of truth and knowledge in the changing intellectual landscape of late antiquity.
Kelsus' Critiques of Christian Monotheism and Doctrinal Practices
Kelsus raises several critiques of Christian beliefs and practices in the podcast episode. He questions the Christians' claim of monotheism, arguing that their understanding of God as both one and a recently crucified Jew is contradictory. He also criticizes the Christian view of the world as having been created relatively recently, contrasting it with the Platonist perspective of the world as eternally existing. Kelsus attacks the Christians' historical pedigree, labeling them as apostate Jews and accusing them of practicing sorcery. He further accuses the Christians of being bad esotericists, misusing enigmas and secret doctrines. Origin, on the other hand, defends the Christians' monotheistic beliefs, asserting the fulfillment of Jewish prophecies by Jesus and the special revelation received by Moses. He argues for the valid interpretation of Christian scriptures through esoteric reading and rejects Kelsus' accusations of bad esotericism.
Christianity and Esotericism: Unveiling Hidden Truths
The podcast episode delves into the relationship between Christianity and esotericism. Origin argues that Christian scriptures contain hidden truths and employ esoteric practices. He cites Moses' writings and the sayings of Jesus as examples of esoteric teachings concealed within apparently simple expressions. Origin suggests that the surface simplicity of the Christian scriptures is intentional, allowing for both exoteric and esoteric interpretations. Kelsus, however, accuses the Christians of misinterpreting esoteric teachings and emphasizes the importance of proper understanding of hidden meanings. This debate highlights the role of esotericism in Christian theology and the interpretation of sacred texts.
We explore the polemics and counter-polemics of Origen's Contra Celsum, with a particular eye toward the use (and abuse) of the esoteric as a strategy of tradition-building, exclusion, and totalising interpretation.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode