

Let's Talk Religion
Filip Holm
This podcast aims to educate on the subject of religion from an academic perspective and to open up for informed discussions on the subject. You will find episodes discussing the big religions of the world and historical overviews of important figures from different religious traditions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 18, 2025 • 1h 1min
Who are the Druze?
Who are the Druze? In this video, we explore the history, culture, and beliefs of the Druze people — a small but influential religious community mainly found in Lebanon, Syria and Jordan.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/Recommended Reading:Betts, Robert Brenton (2009). "The Druze". Yale University Press.Daftary, Farhad (2007). "The Isma'ilis: Their history and doctrines". Cambridge University Press.Firro, Kais M. (2011). "The Druze Faith: Origin, Development and Interpretation". Arabica 58 (2011) 76-99. Brill.Hirschberg, H.Z. (1981). "The Druzes". In "Religion in the Middle East: Three Religions in Concord and conflict (ed. Arberry, A.J. & Beckingham, C.F.), vol 2. Cambridge University Press.Hitti, Philip K. (2007). "The Origins of the Druze People and Religion: With Extracts from their Sacred Writings." Saqi Books. Hodgson, Marshall G.S. (1962). "Al-Darazi and Hamza in the Origins of the Druze Religion". Journal of the American Oriental Society, Vol 82, No. 1.Walker, Paul E. (2010). "Caliph of Cairo: Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah, 996-1021". The American University in Cairo Press. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 31, 2025 • 35min
Who are the Jesuits?
The Jesuits, officially known as the Society of Jesus, are one of the most influential religious orders in the Catholic Church. Founded in 1540 by St. Ignatius of Loyola, they have played a central role in education, missionary work, science, and global history. This video explores who the Jesuits are, their origins, their impact on the Counter-Reformation, and their lasting influence on culture, politics, and spirituality.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/Recomended Reading:Freidrich, Markus (2023). "The Jesuits: A History". Princeton University Press.Rowman & Littlefield Publishers.O'Malley, John W. (2014). "The Jesuits: A History from Ignatius to the Present". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 17, 2025 • 47min
Thomas Aquinas - the Greatest Christian Philosopher?
Discover the life, works, and enduring influence of Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274), the Dominican friar whose synthesis of faith and reason transformed philosophy and theology.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/Recomended Reading:Aquinas, Thomas (1998). "Selected Writings". Penguin Classics.Davies, Brian & Elenore Stump (ed.) (2012). "The Oxford Handbook of Aquinas". OUP USA.Kretzmann, Norman & Eleonore Stump (ed.) (2010). "The Cambridge Companion to Aquinas". Cambridge University Press.The Summa Theologica Translation by Ave Maria Press (1981). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 13, 2025 • 22min
The Amalricians - Pantheist Christianity?
Dive into the forgotten history of the Amalricians, a radical medieval sect branded heretical by the Catholic Church. Followers of philosopher Amalric of Bena, the Amalricians believed in a mystical union with God and a controversial idea: that God was not separate from creation. Discover how their daring pantheistic beliefs challenged Church orthodoxy — and led to their dramatic suppression in the early 13th century.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/Recomended Reading:Angus Braid's Website "The Amalrician Heresy" is an excellent source on the Amalricians in particular: https://theamalricianheresy.wordpress.comCohn, Norman (1970). "The Pursuit of the Millennium: Revolutionary Millenarians and Mystical Anarchists of the Middle Ages". Oxford University Press.McGinn, Bernard. "The Presence of God" Series, in several volumes. Perhaps the best and most comprehensive introduction to Christian mysticism. Published by Crossroad Publishing Co. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 6, 2025 • 38min
What is Pantheism?
Discover the intriguing world of Pantheism, a philosophy that sees God in everything around us. Explore its ancient roots and modern interpretations, connecting spirituality with science and nature. Learn about the mixed reception of this belief, including criticisms from traditional viewpoints and its resurgence among intellectuals today. Delve into how this perspective fosters ecological awareness, and examine how embracing Pantheism could inspire a deeper connection with the natural world.

22 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 1h 2min
What is Jihad?
Dive into the multifaceted meaning of jihad, which extends far beyond mere violence. Discover how inner struggles and social justice play pivotal roles in this concept. Unpack the historical context of early Islamic expansion and the ethical guidelines that shaped warfare practices. Explore the impact of Salafism in modern Islamic thought, challenging common misconceptions about violence. This insightful discussion offers a nuanced perspective on a topic often misunderstood.

May 18, 2025 • 21min
Who are the Augustinians?
Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/Recomended Reading:Gutierrez, David (1984). "The Augustinians in The Middle Ages 1256-1356". In "History of The Order of Saint Augustine. Volume 1 - Part 1.". Augustinian Historical Institute. Villanova University.McGinn, Bernard. "The Presence of God" Series, in several volumes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 10, 2025 • 35min
Was Alcohol Always Forbidden in Islam?
Delve into the intriguing historical context of alcohol prohibition in Islam and its evolving interpretations over time. The discussion shines a light on the Hanafi school's unique stance, revealing how diverse interpretations have shaped legal rulings. Explore lively debates among early Islamic scholars regarding intoxication and consider the modern reassessments of these age-old positions. The podcast also examines the cultural and spiritual dimensions of alcohol within Islamic teachings, highlighting its complex interplay with individual and community life.

May 3, 2025 • 51min
Nasir al-din al-Tusi: The Greatest Islamic Astronomer?
Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/Recomended Reading:Badakhchani, S.J. (translated by) (1999). “Contemplation and Action: The Spiritual Autobiography of a Muslim Scholar”. I.B. Tauris.Badakhchani, S.J. (translated by) (2004). “The Paradise of Submission: A Medieval Treatise on Ismaili Thought”. Ismaili Texts and Translations. I.B. Tauris.Chittick, William (1981). “Mysticism versus Philosophy in Earlier Islamic History: The Al-Ṭūsī, Al-Qūnawī Correspondence”. In Religious StudiesVol. 17, No. 1 (Mar., 1981). Cambridge University Press.Daftary, Farhad (2007). "The Isma'ilis: Their history and doctrines". Cambridge University Press.Meisami, Sayeh (2019). “Nasir al-Din Tusi: A Philosopher for All Seasons”. The Islamic Texts Society.Qara’i, Ali Quli (translated by) (?) “Awsaf al-Ashraf: Attributes of the Noble”. In al-Tawhid Islamic Journal, Vol.11, No.3, No.4. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 9, 2025 • 54min
What is the Bektashi Order?
Discover the fascinating world of the Bektashi Order, a unique Sufi sect blending Sunni and Shi'i influences. Explore their radical historical practices and the profound metaphysical beliefs that shape their spirituality. Learn about the role of mystics like Haji Bektash Veli and their impact on the Order. Dive into the esoteric teachings regarding Ali and reincarnation, and enjoy their vibrant communal Jem gatherings, which mix music and dance. Unearth the Order's resilience throughout history and its intriguing potential for a Bektashi microstate in Europe.