Let's Talk Religion

Dive into the captivating world of vampire lore as we unravel the centuries-old history of these immortal creatures. From ancient myths to modern pop culture, join us on a mesmerizing journey through the evolution of vampire legends. Discover the origins, folklore, and enduring fascination surrounding these mythical beings & their influence on culture, religion & philosophy.Sources/Recomended Reading:Adams, Paul (2014). "Written in Blood: A Cultural History of the British Vampire". The History Press.Barber, Paul (2010). "Vampires, Burial, and Death". Yale University Press.Groom, Nick (2020). "The Vampire: A New History". Yale University Press. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the chilling world of Yurei, the vengeful ghosts of Japanese folklore. In this episode, we delve into the origins, stories, and legends surrounding Yurei spirits, from their connection to death and unresolved grudges to their portrayal in popular Japanese horror. Discover the famous tales of Onryo (vengeful ghosts), the haunting role of Yurei in traditional Japanese culture, and how they inspire modern movies like The Ring and The Grudge.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:Davisson, Zach (2020). "Yurei: The Japanese Ghost". Chin Music Press Inc.Morton, Lisa (2017). "Ghosts: A Haunted History". Reaktion Books.Yoda, Hiroko & Matt Alt (2012). "Yurei Attack!: The Japanese Ghost Survival Guide". Tuttle Publishing."A History of Ghosts, Spirits and the Supernatural." 2024. DK. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the fascinating history of ghosts and uncover the ancient origins of ghost stories from around the world! In this episode, we dive deep into the myths and legends that have shaped our beliefs in the paranormal for centuries. From ancient Egypt to modern Europe, and beyond, we'll investigate how cultures across the globe have described spirits, hauntings, and supernatural phenomena.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/talkreligiondonateAlso check out the Let's Talk Religion Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ih4sqtWv0wRIhS6HFgerb?si=95b07d83d0254bSources/Recomended Reading:Bottéro, Jean (2004). "Religion in Ancient Mesopotamia". Translated by Teresa Lavender Fagan. University of Chicago Press.Davisson, Zach (2020). "Yurei: The Japanese Ghost". Chin Music Press Inc.Lebling, Robert & Tahir Shah (2014). "Legends of the Fire Spirits: Jinn and Genies from Arabia to Zanzibar. I.B. Tauris.Morton, Lisa (2017). "Ghosts: A Haunted History". Reaktion Books."A History of Ghosts, Spirits and the Supernatural." 2024. DK. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into the enchanting world of Zar spirit possession rituals in Northeast Africa. Discover how cultural traditions intertwine with mystical beliefs in Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia. The podcast reveals the vibrant ceremonies, powerful music, and mesmerizing dances that mark these rituals. Uncover the vital role of zar communities, especially for women, in providing social support. Explore the deep connections between spirituality, gender, and trauma, shedding light on a rich tapestry of cultural dynamics.

We begin this years Shocktober season with another video about jinn - specifically about jinn possession and exorcism in the Islamic world.Sources/Recomended Reading:Al-Buni, Ahmad ibn ‘Ali. “The Sun of Knowledge (Shams al-Ma’arif): An Arabic Grimoire in Selected Translation”. Translated by Amina Inloes & Illustrated by J.M. Hamade. Revelore Press, 2021.Henninger, Joseph (2004). "Beliefs in Spirits among the Pre-Islamic Arabs". In "Magic and Divination in Early Islam". Edited by Emile Savage-Smith. Ashgate Publishing Company.Lebling, Robert & Tahir Shah (2014). "Legends of the Fire Spirits: Jinn and Genies from Arabia to Zanzibar. I.B. Tauris.Melvin-Koushki, Matthew & Noah Gardner (2017). "Islamicate Occultism: New Perspectives". Brill. Philips, Bilal (2008). "The Exorcist Tradition in Islam". Al-Hidaayah Publishing & Distribution.Savage-Smith, Emily (ed.) (2004). "Magic & Divination in Early Islam". Ashgate Publishing. “Shams al-Ma’arif al-Kubra”. Arabic Printed Edition by Dar al-Mizan. "The Annotated Arabian Nights: Tales from 1001 Nights". Edited by Paulo Lemos Horta. Translated by Yasmine Seale. Liveright Publishing Corporation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the rich history and unique traditions of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, one of the oldest Christian denominations. Discover its fascinating origins linked to the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon. Learn about the church’s distinctive non-Chalcedonian beliefs and its extensive biblical canon. Delve into the vibrant liturgical practices, including religious festivals, dietary laws, and the significance of monastic life. Uncover the cultural influences that have shaped its identity and the architectural wonders like the Lalibela churches.

Husayn Ibn Mansur al-Hallaj was a 9th-century Sufi mystic famous for his provocative declaration, "I am the Truth." The discussion reveals his extraordinary spiritual journey and the intricacies of his poetry, emphasizing his radical views on love and divine union in Sufism. His martyrdom and its impact on spiritual discourse are examined, along with the historical context of his teachings. The legacy left by al-Hallaj continues to evoke deep reflections on mysticism, making his story as relevant today as it was in his time.

Check out my linktree to find our new song, socials & more: https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/letstalkreligion Also check out the Let's Talk Religion Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ih4sqtWv0wRIhS6HFgerb?si=95b07d83d0254bSources/Recomended Reading:Clark, Gillian (translated by) (2000). "Porphyry: On Abstinence from Killing Animals". Bristol Classical Press.Gerson, Loyd P. (ed.) (2019). "Plotinus: The Enneads". Cambridge University Press.Gerson, Loyd P (2008). "Cambridge Companion to Plotinus". Cambridge University Press.Huffman, Carl A. (ed.) (2017). "A History of Pythagoreanism". Cambridge University Press.Iamblichus "On the Mysteries". Tranlsated by Emma C. Clarke, John M. Dillon & Jackson P. Hershell. Writings from the Graeco-Roman World. Society of Biblical Literature.Kirk, G.S., J.E. Raven & M. Schofield (1983). "The Presocratic Philosophers". Second Edition. Cambridge University Press.Shaw, Gregory (2014). "Theurgy and the Soul: The Neoplatonism of Iamblichus". Angelico Press/Sophia Perennis.Wallis, R.T. (1998). "Neoplatonism". Second Edition. Bristol Classical Paperbacks. Hackett Publishing Company. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the epic tale of a 7th-century Buddhist monk who ventured from China to India in a remarkable pilgrimage. The journey weaves reality with fantasy, featuring the legendary Monkey King as a companion. Explore the monk's intense intellectual struggles and how his discoveries revolutionized Buddhism in China. Uncover the lasting impact of his scholarly work, which shaped institutions and practices for generations. Witness a historical figure transform into a celebrated literary icon, bridging the gap between ancient traditions and modern interpretations.

Delve into the fascinating interplay between yoga and Islamic traditions, especially Sufism, as they intertwine through history. Discover how Sufism enriched local practices in India, blending spiritual philosophies during the Mughal era. Learn specific breath control techniques that connect physical and mental spirituality. Explore the significant role of sound in both Sufi practices and yoga. Finally, navigate the ongoing debates around yoga's acceptance within Muslim communities, revealing a rich tapestry of shared spiritual journeys.