Nick Literski, a psychology lecturer and spiritual guide, discusses the connection between treasure hunting and the origins of Mormonism. They explore esoteric traditions, Joseph Smith's experiences, and the mystery of an anti-thief charm. They also touch on Joseph's potential knowledge of the Magus and the sale of a historic property. A fascinating conversation about hidden treasures and their impact on early Mormonism.
The Smith family's treasure hunting activities were deeply rooted in magical and Masonic traditions, influenced by legends of Freemasonry and the potential of finding hidden treasures.
The Smith family's treasure hunting activities were connected to Masonic legends and beliefs, including the search for the lost word associated with King Solomon and Hiram Abiff, as well as the belief in ancient Israelite artifacts brought to America.
The Smith family's treasure hunting activities were supported by mystical literature and magical practices, such as the use of protective seals and symbols, demonstrating their sincere belief and the complex influences surrounding the founding of Mormonism.
Deep dives
Treasure hunting in America
Treasure hunting in America has a long history deeply rooted in magical and Masonic traditions. The Smith family, particularly Joseph Smith Sr., was involved in treasure hunting in Vermont in the late 1700s and early 1800s. They believed in the legends of Freemasonry and the potential of finding hidden treasures. Joseph Smith Jr., the founder of Mormonism, was exposed to this treasure hunting culture from a young age and was taught how to use peepstones or seerstones to scry for treasure locations. The family conducted several treasure digs, following specific rituals and instructions, including driving metal rods into the ground to mark circles and performing sacrifices such as the blood of a black dog or sheep. While they did not find any treasure, their involvement in treasure hunting continued even after the establishment of Mormonism.
Connections to Masonic Legends
The Smith family's treasure hunting activities were intertwined with Masonic legends and beliefs. Freemasonry played a significant role in early America, and the Smiths were influenced by Masonic ideas, such as the legend of the lost word associated with King Solomon and Hiram Abiff. They believed that this lost word, a powerful name, could be hidden somewhere in America, leading to the persistent search for treasures. The family's involvement in treasure hunting was also connected to Native American burial mounds, which were believed to hold valuable artifacts. Ideas of ancient Israelite artifacts brought to America and the concept of hidden treasures buried in mysterious places were part of the cultural backdrop that fueled the Smith family's treasure hunting endeavors.
The Smiths' Approach and Influences
The Smith family's treasure hunting activities were not just based on oral tradition or folklore. They had access to mystical literature such as the Magus and potentially even the Key of Solomon. Joseph Smith Jr., in particular, used a lomin, a manuscript of protective seals and symbols, which displayed his knowledge of different magical traditions. His use of seerstones, or peepstones, to scry for treasure locations also aligned with folk magical practices. Despite the skepticism from critics, the Smith family's involvement in treasure hunting was marked by sincere belief and a reputation that extended beyond their local area. The connections between their treasure hunting endeavors, Masonic legends, magical traditions, and the founding of Mormonism demonstrate the complex influences and cultural context surrounding the birth of the religion.
Treasure Hunting and the Origins of Mormonism
The podcast explores the connection between treasure hunting and the origins of Mormonism. It delves into the belief in buried treasure prevalent in the early 19th century, particularly in the area of Palmyra, New York, where Joseph Smith Jr., the founder of Mormonism, lived. The episode highlights the influence of magical practices, such as divining rods and enchantments, on the development of the Mormon faith. It examines the role of treasure hunting in shaping Joseph Smith's religious experiences and the translation of the Book of Mormon, highlighting their close ties to the cultural context of the time.
The Angelic Visitation and Obtaining the Plates
The podcast delves into the story of Joseph Smith's encounter with an angel and his subsequent search for the golden plates, which would become the basis for the Book of Mormon. It discusses the rituals and magical practices associated with treasure hunting, including the use of divining rods, the invocation of spirits, and the belief in hidden treasure. The episode explores the role of symbolism and lore in Joseph Smith's religious experiences, as well as the connection between his treasure hunting activities and the establishment of the Mormon Church. It presents an intriguing perspective on the intersection of magical beliefs and the origins of Mormonism.
Would Mormonism even exist without magical treasure hunting? This is an amazing question and a strange topic, and I am really thrilled that I get to explore this topic with my guest in this episode, Dr. Nick Literski!
Dr. Nick Literski is an Adjunct Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the California Institute of Integral Studies, and a professional spiritual guide. Nick holds a doctorate in Depth Psychology with Emphasis in Jungian and Archetypal Studies from Pacifica Graduate Institute, as well as a master’s in Spiritual Guidance from Sofia University and a Juris Doctor from the Northern Illinois University College of Law. Their research interests include depth psychological reflections on spirituality, magic, Paleolithic cave art, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Nick’s work has been published in multiple professional journals. Their recent book, Method Infinite: Freemasonry and the Mormon Restoration, was published by Greg Kofford Books in 2022.
Sword + Scythe creates handmade materia magica, amulets, astrological talismans, and provides divinatory services under the auspices of Mars and Saturn. Visit at swordandscythe.com
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