Talk Gnosis

Is John the Baptist one of the most important figures in religious history. For many he’s a footnote but prepare to have your understanding of early Christianity, Gnosticism, and Judaism challenged and expanded. Dr. James McGrath is back on Talk Gnosis discussing his groundbreaking new book “Christ Maker: A Life of John the Baptist”, offering fresh insights into one of history’s most influential yet enigmatic figures. Dr. McGrath presents compelling evidence that John the Baptist was far more than a mere precursor to Jesus. Drawing on a wide range of sources, including Gnostic texts and Mandaean scriptures, he reconstructs John’s life and teachings, revealing his profound impact on Jesus, early Christianity, Judaism, and even the origins of Gnosticism. From John’s unique baptismal practices to his vision for social justice, this interview explores how this “marginal precursor” shaped religious thought for centuries to come. Whether you’re a scholar, student, or simply curious about religious history, this fascinating discussion promises to reshape your view of John the Baptist and the roots of Western religion. Buy the book, get the book, stop what you’re doing and read the book! If you can’t afford to buy a copy, you can request your library purchase it: Book Details  [https://ia903207.us.archive.org/6/items/final-john/final%20john.mp3]  —————– Become a patron: http://patreon.com/gnostic​​ 

You know a rock opera about the true story of an esoterically inspired cult leader would grab our attention…plus the sex, drugs, gold, and bull whipping! So we interviewed GW Brazier, the creative force behind Brother 12: The Rock Opera, and its producer, Belinda Perez. The project brings to life the enigmatic and controversial figure of Brother 12, a 1920s cult leader who promised salvation from an impending apocalypse. The creators blend theatrical drama, a post-punk gothic soundtrack, and a touch of dark humour to craft a provocative performance. In the interview, GW and Belinda discuss the story of Brother 12, the musical influences, and the creative process behind the show. They delve into how they adapted historical events and characters for the stage, blending fact with creative license to tell a compelling story. The show not only tells the captivating narrative of Brother 12’s rise and fall but also reflects on contemporary themes of charisma, manipulation, and the human desire for belonging. The rock opera is both an exploration of, and a critique of, the darker aspects of leadership and belief, set to the backdrop of an 80s-inspired musical journey. Listen to the soundtrack and get more details (and contact the team if you want to bring the show to your town) at https://brother12rockopera.com/  [https://ia902709.us.archive.org/1/items/final-brother-12-audio/final%20brother%2012%20audio.mp3]  —————– Become a patron: http://patreon.com/gnostic​​ 

In this Talk Gnosis we find out all about one of the most unique and wild spiritual systems in the world: Voudon Gnosticism. Frater Vameri has a new book all about it and is our guide to the syncretic magical system that’s inspired by a range of influences like Haitian Vodou, Gnosticism, Kabbala, and other esoteric traditions….as well as insights and teachings from the spirits themselves. The book meticulously details the practices of Voudon Gnosticism, guiding readers on how to communicate with the Lwas (spirits) and foster relationships with them. Vameri also traces the rich history of this tradition, highlighting influential figures such as Martinez de Pasqually, Lucien François Jean-Maine, and Michael Bertiaux. Through this work, Frater Vameri also empowers readers to construct their own magical universe, guided by the revelations of the Lwas. Get the book at: https://www.innertraditions.com/books/voudon-gnosticism Get more Frater Vameri at: https://www.eduardoregis.com/  [https://ia802701.us.archive.org/5/items/gnostic-voudon-audio/gnostic%20voudon%20audio.mp3]  —————– Become a patron: http://patreon.com/gnostic​​ 

The Apostolic Johannite Church is proud to present the twenty-fourth annual AJC Conclave – May 31st to June 2nd, 2024 After a review of costs involved for attendance at our host cities, the Apostolic Johannite Church has opted in favour of accessibility and affordability – Conclave 2024 will be entirely online. Each year the people of the AJC, friends and family gather together to socialize, learn, build our skills and deepen our community. It is an amazing opportunity for spiritual growth and insight to modern Gnostic practice. Conclave is a rich opportunity to deepen your practice, education and experience of Gnosticism and the Apostolic Johannite Church. Conclave offers lectures, workshops and panel discussions selected to develop ministry skills, support the work of church leaders both lay and ordained and deepen and enrich the spiritual lives of attendees. As always, we welcome you, no matter who you are or what your spiritual path, to join us for this unique weekend. You can come for all or part and participate as much or as little as you’d like. However you choose, we welcome you into our household. Conclave  [https://ia804601.us.archive.org/23/items/conclaveCommercialAudio/conclaveCommercialAudio.mp3]  —————– Become a patron: http://patreon.com/gnostic​​ 

We’ve been meaning to have occultist and writer Phil Hine on Talk Gnosis for awhile and now we have the best possible reason: to talk about his new book “Wheels within Wheels: Chakras and Western Esotericism”. With Phil we follow the journey of chakra concepts from their roots in Indian Tantric traditions to their adoption and adaptation by Western esoteric circles. He details the initial engagement with chakra ideas by Western thinkers, particularly through the Theosophical Society, and how these ideas were transformed, reinterpreted, and reshaped. Wake up your kundalini by watching this ep and finding out what chakras have to do with the Book of Revelation, Aleister Crowley, colonialism, and the development of spiritual syncretism in the modern era. Get the book in paperback or Kindle form at https://www.amazon.com/Wheels-within-Chakras-Western-Esotericism/dp/1916236685/ Get more Phil at: Enfolding.org This ep and all our content is also out as a podcast, subscribe where ever you usually listen or go to https://pod.link/845230843  [https://ia902500.us.archive.org/18/items/chakras_202405/Chakras.mp3]  —————– Become a patron: http://patreon.com/gnostic​​ 

Ukrainian artist Nightgrowler shares his journey of discovering the profound connection between art and magic with Talk Gnosis and host Jason Mehmel. Nightgrowler delves into his exploration of Gnostic and esoteric ideas, the figure of the Demiurge, and his own artistic projects including a Tarot deck, planetary talismans, and a magical alphabet based on the Ukrainian language. Throughout the interview, Nightgrowler reflects on the transformative power of art as a means to process and integrate life’s challenges, even amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He emphasizes the importance of creative expression and the healing virtues of beauty in everyday life. Check out his show for a unique perspective on the intersection of art, magic, and personal resilience. Get everything Nightgrowler at https://linktr.ee/Nightgrowler  [https://ia600909.us.archive.org/22/items/nightgrowler-final-audio/Nightgrowler%20Final%20Audio.mp3]  —————– Become a patron: http://patreon.com/gnostic​​ 

It’s our new show where we talk to a self-identified Gnostic about their personal takes on Gnosticism, their history with the tradition, their spiritual practice, and their Gnostic take on the world/cosmos/existence. Up next is writer, theatre artist, and podcaster Jonathan Stewart, you may know him from such podcasts as Talk Gnosis. Jonathan talks about his past with religion, how Gnosticism engages both reality and metaphor through it’s cosmos, and the value of joining something, just so you’re not out in the dark, alone. The advertisement of the Time Life Mysteries book advertisement: https://youtu.be/wbUOIeIeGaI?si=B5fm4zYtVQ-XFQZx Our playlist of Martinism-related epsiodes: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvM8JnMpRI2eC1AQj1RnjWeAXgtQZ-EVY&si=uB9JAeg1yZtBnUac And our episode with Shirley Paulson: https://youtu.be/RnbQGefPsCU?si=VQUT0-3OFVYrhTa0       [https://ia600205.us.archive.org/16/items/meet-a-gnostic-jon-edit/meet%20a%20gnostic%20jon%20edit.mp3]     —————– Become a patron: http://patreon.com/gnostic​​  

Michael Osborne is a Talk Gnosis returning show champion with another needed new translation of a precious esoteric text: The de Grainville Manuscripts (AKA The Green Book AKA The Algiers Manuscript). His book is a new and unabridged translation of notes and journals of Lieutenant-Colonel Pierre André de Grainville (1728-1794), an initiate of the enigmatic spiritual master Martinez de Pasqually and a member of the the mysterious Élus Coëns. De Grainville, having progressed through the Order’s ranks, meticulously kept notes which offer a rare and fragmentary glimpse into the original rituals and teachings of the Élus Coëns, a secret 18th century French order of mystics who strove to work with spiritual powers to return humans to what they’re supposed to be. Get your copy at: https://rosecirclebooks.com/published-books/  [https://ia600201.us.archive.org/27/items/the-de-grainville-manuscripts-w-m.-r.-osborne/The%20de%20Grainville%20Manuscripts%20w%20M.R.%20Osborne.mp3]  —————– Become a patron: http://patreon.com/gnostic​​ 

Alex Coma, artist and creative coach, returns to Talk Gnosis for a wide-ranging interview. We discuss his transitions from photography to painting, embodying the shift from tangible to metaphysical realms. Alex’s art, deeply symbolic and rich in metaphysical landscapes, serves as a conduit for exploring spiritual concepts, representing a transformative journey from self-discovery to serving humanity. His work, integrating esoteric and occult elements offers a portal to introspection and spiritual exploration. This episode not only showcases Alex’s unique artistic evolution but also introduces his current venture, Roze Umbra, where he merges various spiritual practices to guide creators towards crafting their lives with intention. Through his story and projects, Alex illustrates the powerful role of art and spirituality in unlocking the mysteries of the self and the universe, making this a compelling ep for anyone searching for gnosis through art. Get more Alex at : https://www.rozeumbra.com/ https://www.alexcoma.world/ youtube.com/@rozeumbra Retreats: https://www.rozeumbra.com/retreats Alex’s previous Talk Gnosis appearance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMGl_Z_xMS4  [https://ia600207.us.archive.org/17/items/final-alex-audio/final%20alex%20audio.mp3]  —————– Become a patron: http://patreon.com/gnostic​​ 

Sociologist, author, podcaster, and writer Dr. Ashley Frawley comes on Talk Gnosis to talk mindfulness and challenge the prevailing narratives that frame it as a panacea for society’s ills. With a critical eye, she unpacks the journey of mindfulness from a simple practice to a widespread discourse touted as the solution to a vast array of social problems, from improving productivity to addressing mental health issues. The conversation navigates through the history of therapeutic discourses, revealing how mindfulness, much like the self-esteem movement before it, has been used by governments and corporations to place the onus of societal issues on the individual. By dissecting the rhetoric surrounding meditation and mindfulness, Dr. Frawley invites us to reconsider its role in society, questioning whether it truly serves as a force for change or merely perpetuates a cycle of deferral and blame-shifting. Get more Dr. Frawley at https://www.patreon.com/AshleyAFrawley We mention her new book in the interview so check it out at: https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/significant-emotions-9781350026797/  [https://archive.org/download/finalfinalFrawley/finalfinalFrawley.mp3]  —————– Become a patron: http://patreon.com/gnostic​​