Podcast episodes – The Secret History of Western Esotericism Podcast (SHWEP)

Anna van den Kerchove, a leading voice in the 'reclaiming' of ancient Hermetism, discusses the origins and influence of the Corpus Hermeticum. Topics covered include the different perspectives on God, the diverse Hermetic community, and the significance of group practices in antiquity.

Dr. M. David Litwa, an expert on deification in the Hermetica, discusses the concept of becoming divine in hermetic literature. Topics include translation of the Hermetica, different interpretations and methods of achieving divinity, and comparisons to Christian views of deification. The chapter also explores Clement of Alexandria's ideas on the evolution of the universe and the role of Hermes in Christian discourse.

This podcast discusses the esoteric elements in the ancient Hermetica texts, including initiation, silence, exclusivity, and secrecy. It explores Lesemistarium texts, the origins of Anthropos, and the process of cleansing vices for divine rebirth. The disciple's request for spiritual ascent and the significance of vowels and silence are also touched upon.

This podcast explores two ancient Hermetic texts, the Asclepius and Korê Kosmou, which depict Hermes as an esoteric sage, prophet of doom, and cosmic deity. The hosts delve into the central theories, creation stories, and anthropologies found in these texts, highlighting their significance in Western Esotericism. They explore topics such as immortalization, the role of humans, the nature of human beings, matter in the cosmos, religious practices, symbolism, cosmology, alchemical aspects, and the role of Isis and Horus in the birth of gods.

Scholar of Western esotericism, Wouter Hanegraaff, discusses the Poimandres, exploring its cosmology, hymn, and vision. The concept of 'news' as divine reality is examined, along with the blurring of subject and object in a universal light. The manifestation of light in darkness and the emergence of humanity through divine intervention are also explored. The podcast also delves into the relationship between the physical body and eternal consciousness, challenging traditional perspectives on sin and sexuality. Finally, the Hermetica is discussed as a spiritual path that aims to reconnect with the divine and perceive new realities.

In this podcast, they discuss the Poimandres, an extraordinary ancient Hermetic document. They explore the origin and meaning of 'Poimandres' and its Egyptian connections. They also delve into the belief of stars generating fate and its influence on later antiquity. The creation of the primal human and divine lovers is explored, as well as the concept of 'misterion' and its connection to initiation. They also discuss androgen humans, divine providence, and the concept of entering the region of the Ogdoad. The podcast concludes with discussing the final hymn and offering recommendations for further reading.

Professor Christian Wildberg, an expert in the Corpus Hermeticum, discusses the poor state of the texts collected in the Corpus Hermeticum and his proposal to improve them. He explores the process of text corruption, mechanical interrelation, reflections on Johannine Christianity, the presence of Christian elements and astrology in the Hermetica, and the role of Stebayas in the study of the Hermetica.

We speak with Brian Copenhaver, translator of the Corpus Hermeticum and general man of parts vis á vis all things hermetic, to get some orientation on the ancient Hermetica and what they are all about.

Meet Thrice-Greatest Hermes, the barbarian philosopher and author of the Hermetica. Explore the origins and aspects of Hermes, the challenges of interpreting hermetic texts, and additions to the corpus hermetica. Discover the theoretical Hermetica's focus and contradictions, and delve into the music of Georgi Ben inspired by Hermetic wisdom.

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.