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

This podcast explores Iamblichus' philosophy, discussing the hierarchy of divine entities known as the Greater Kinds and the concept of soul. It delves into the worship of heroes in Greek and Roman religions, the practice of theurgy, and Iamblichus' views on the divine realms, soul, and matter.

The podcast features special guest-star Noeric Hebdomad as they explore Iamblichus' 'esoteric-literalist' approach to the Platonic corpus and his complex metaphysics. Topics covered include Iamblichus' curriculum and scopos, contrasting beliefs between Iamblichus and Plotinus, the concept of the 'one being' and the noetic triad, the meaning of 'noeric' in Iamblichus' works, and correspondences in esoteric teachings.

Meet Iamblichus, the Divine, a Platonist philosopher and wonder-worker. Explore his fascinating life and writings, including levitation and miraculous apparitions. Learn about his ancestry, mentors, and associations, as well as his love for wise barbarians. Discover the miracles performed by Iamblichus, including summoning boys from hot springs. Delve into his works and philosophical approach, with a focus on his complex metaphysics. Explore his literal reading of Plato's dialogues and his criticism of Numinius' theory of the soul. Lastly, learn about Iamblichus' influential position in late-Platonic thought and his resistance to Christianity.

Exploring the multifaceted meaning of 'Theurgy' in Western esotericism, including its interpretations by figures such as the Chaldean oracles, Porphyry, Yamblicus, and Giordano Bruno. The podcast also discusses its usage in Freemasonry, occultism, and 19th-century esotericism. The concept of Theurgy throughout history is explored, including Latinate Angelic Addressive Practices, Jesus's Theurgic Powers, and Elizabethan Magus's angelic communication. The evolution and interpretation of Theurgy in Western Esotericism is examined, as well as its connection to the goal of not being subject to fate in Late Antiquity. The distinction between Theorgia and Goetheia is clarified, and the debate on whether Theurgy should be considered magic or a new religious movement is discussed.

Exploring other subtle-body theories in antique esoteric literature, this podcast discusses astral accretions, counterfeit spirits, resurrection-bodies, fate, Archons, and the eschatological role of the subtle body. It delves into concepts from the Hermetica, Platonists, Basilides, Origen, Gnostic texts, and more.

This podcast explores the concept of the subtle body in ancient Greek culture, including soul-flight practices. It discusses the lack of unified conception of the human soul and delves into the lore of soul manipulators in Western esotericism. The evolution of the concept of pneuma and Platonists' beliefs regarding the soul and body are also explored. The podcast examines the soul's descent and ascent through the astral spheres and the concept of the soul vehicle in Platonist philosophy.

Featuring Doctor Strange, this podcast explores the concept of the subtle body and its impact on physical health. It discusses methodological problems associated with its study, philosophical perspectives on the human body, and the historical roots of the concept in Western esoteric thought.

Nilufer Akçay, author of the only full-length English monograph on Porphyry's On the Cave of the Nymphs, discusses Porphyry's allegorical interpretation of Homer's text, his interest in the Mithraic mysteries, the concepts of the sensible and intelligible realms, his interpretation of Haddis, and the symbolism of the olive tree.

This podcast explores Porphyry's views on wisdom found in various traditions, his critique of Christianity's use of esoteric hermeneutics, the nuances of 'barbarian' in ancient Greece, Porphyry's interpretation of Homer's works, his views on Jews, Essenes, and Christians, and the battle over interpretation of scripture in late antiquity.

Dorian Greenbaum, historian of astrology and philosophy, discusses astrology in Porphyry and situates it within the history of astrology. They explore the diversity of astrology in the Hellenistic period and the concept of the soul's passage through celestial spheres. The podcast also delves into Porphyry's theory of astrology, including finding the personal daimōn, and the diamond metaphor in Plato's works.