

The Symbolic World
Jonathan Pageau
Jonathan Pageau looks at symbolism in all its forms, from its source in sacred stories and images to contemporary culture and ultimately how it shapes the world we encounter.
Episodes
Mentioned books

8 snips
Mar 9, 2024 • 1h 59min
333 - John Vervaeke, DC Schindler, Ken Lowry - The Ontology of Artificial Intelligence
The podcast delves into the ontology of artificial intelligence from scientific, philosophical, and spiritual perspectives. Topics include the evolution of AI, ethical concerns in development, interconnectedness of intelligence and caring, essence of being alive, human behavior, transpersonal agency, unity in AI, and integration of higher intelligence in civilization.

Mar 2, 2024 • 35min
332 - The Garments of Skin
Delve into the symbolic significance of garments of skin in biblical stories, exploring their transfer as a symbol of power and exile. Uncover deeper layers of meaning within ancient legends and traditions. Also, learn about the Kickstarter campaign for the graphic novel, 'God's Dog Warrior'.

4 snips
Feb 26, 2024 • 60min
331 - Richard Rohlin - Universal History: The Tower of Babel
Exploring the Tower of Babel in Scripture and Book of Jubilees, symbolism of the structure, Pentecost's significance, solution to authoritarianism, collaboration in symbolic representation, ancient ways of reading Genesis, symbolism of candles in prayer, Pentecost connections, and ancient hymnography in Orthodox Church traditions.

30 snips
Feb 21, 2024 • 49min
330 - The Leviathan in Scripture: Ouroboros Symbolism
Exploring the deep-rooted meanings of the Leviathan in biblical contexts, unraveling its symbolism as a creation of God and symbol of divine power. Delving into the dual nature of chaos and order represented by the Leviathan and the Ouroboros symbol, reflecting on identity transformation and the significance of serpents in scripture. Highlighting themes of defeat chaos, unity versus multiplicity, and mythical storytelling through symbolic depth.

4 snips
Feb 16, 2024 • 56min
329 - James Poulos - Bitcoin Monasteries: Putting Technology to Good Use
James Poulos, co-founder of The American Mind, discusses the impact of technology on spirituality and the need to put it in the right hands. He explores the worship of technology in Silicon Valley and the connection between revolution and technology. They also touch on Heidegger's concept of care, the direct experience of spirituality, and the return to original religions as a defense against AI.

23 snips
Feb 8, 2024 • 1h 21min
328 - Stephen Blackwood - The Book that the West Needs
Stephen Blackwood, a Canadian-American professor and social commentator, discusses the book 'The Consolation of Boethius' and its role in Medieval Western world. They explore the themes of detachment, self-possession, and the search for spiritual good. They also discuss the power of patterned language, the role of repetition and rituals in shaping understanding, and the significance of finding meaning through patterns.

14 snips
Feb 2, 2024 • 1h 17min
327 - Richard Rohlin - Universal History: Dragons!
Historian Richard Rohlin explores the presence and symbolism of dragons throughout history and across cultures, including their connection to snakes, birds, and angels. The podcast also delves into the treatment of dragons in Eastern traditions, Christianity, and medical symbolism, highlighting their role as guardians of paradise and sources of forbidden knowledge.

8 snips
Jan 30, 2024 • 23min
326 - The Symbolism of Titans, Giants, and Nephilim
Exploring the symbolism of giants, titans, and Nephilim and their portrayal as villains in the graphic novel God's Dog Warrior. Discussing the breakdown of civilization and the consequences of misalignment. Examining the rebellion of titans and the representation of giants as forces of nature. Exploring the significance of giants as reminders of the pre-diluvian world and the misalignment between heaven and earth.

58 snips
Jan 18, 2024 • 45min
325 - JP Marceau - Recovering the Metaphysics of Symbolism
JP Marceau, Symbolic World metaphysics enthusiast, discusses his upcoming course on metaphysics and his journey in the symbolic world. Topics include exploring nihilism, materialism, and the concept of good and evil, learning complex concepts through observation and discussion, healing through storytelling, finding community, and the transition to symbolic thinking.

5 snips
Jan 18, 2024 • 1h 31min
324 - Benjamin Boyce - The Inevitable Fall of the Enlightenment
Benjamin Boyce discusses the Enlightenment, rationalism, science, identity, value hierarchies, authoritarianism, subsidiarity, love, and sacrifice. They explore personal transformation, quantifying vs. understanding reality, unity and nationalism, the concept of the individual and its relationship to the collective, proper and improper love in Christian theology, the power of sacrifice, starting a Bible study with 12-year-olds, and approaching high-level thinking and survival.


