Arcanvm Podcast Pre-Socratic Philosophy, The Orphic Descent, & Reconstructing Iamblichean Theurgy w. P.D. Newman
Apr 5, 2023
P.D. Newman, an author and occultist, dives deep into the realms of Platonic and pre-Socratic philosophy. He sheds light on the mystical qualities of these ancient thoughts and their poetic dimensions. Newman explores the Orphic katabasis as a path to spiritual knowledge, while also reflecting on his personal journey through Orthodox Christianity. The contrast between Neoplatonism and pre-Socratic beliefs highlights their relevance today, as he discusses the importance of rituals and theurgy in connecting with ancient wisdom and contemporary spirituality.
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Conversion Sparked A Theurgic Path
- P.D. Newman describes converting to Orthodoxy and discovering Iamblichus which led him into theurgy five years prior.
- He then traced backwards through Plato to the Pre-Socratics and found their work felt like magical, ritual texts.
Homeric Origins Of Theurgic Ritual
- Proclus traces a ritual of elevation to Homeric funerary rites, especially Achilles' vigil for Patroclus.
- The ritual pattern links sacrifice, invocations, and celestial timing to the soul's release from Hades.
Venus As The Exit From Hades
- Achilles' ritual ends when the morning star (Venus/Inanna) rises, signaling the soul's departure from Hades.
- Venus functions mythically as the one who can enter and exit the underworld, encoding katabasis-excarnation logic.
