Rune Soup Iamblichus, Theurgy and The Body | Professor Gregory Shaw
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Jun 12, 2024 Professor Gregory Shaw, religious studies professor, discusses Iamblichus, theurgy, and the body. Topics include the descent to gods, theurgic imagination, divination for soul development, cross-cultural comparisons, and the necessity of ceremony. Shaw's latest book, Hellenic Tantra, is highlighted as a must-read.
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Shaw's Introduction to Iamblichus
- Gregory Shaw discovered Iamblichus while studying in university, assigned his works along with Dodds' critique of theurgy. - Shaw resonated deeply with Iamblichus' descriptions of chanting and divine possession, contrasting Dodds' narrow rationalism.
Theurgic Imagination is Receptivity
- Theurgy activates imagination to interact with divine realms, blending internal and external experiences. - Receptivity, achieved through various means like dance or chanting, is key to accessing divine imagination.
Santeria Possession Mirrors Iamblichus
- A Santeria priest detailed levels of divine possession, including discerning the spirit's authenticity and depth. - This modern possession mirrors Iamblichus' descriptions, showing theurgy's cross-cultural relevance.