Tag Archives: essenes

The Gnostic Last Supper (Agape Love Feast)

The Nazoreans and Ebionites, early Jewish-Christian groups, had a unique interpretation of the Last Supper, seeing it less as a literal meal or sacrificial act and more as a symbolic communal gathering rooted in Gnostic spirituality. These sects emphasized the idea of Christ as a spiritual teacher who imparted secret wisdom, and they interpreted the Last Supper as a Love Feast (or agape feast), meant to reflect divine unity and mutual love among followers. Unlike the orthodox Christian focus on the Eucharist as the body and blood of Christ, they rejected the notion of sacrificial consumption, instead highlighting the sharing of food as a reflection of spiritual nourishment and harmony.

Vegetarianism played a central role in this interpretation. Both groups adhered to strict dietary laws, abstaining from meat and emphasizing a return to an Edenic ideal of nonviolence and purity. The Last Supper, in their eyes, was likely a vegetarian meal symbolizing the rejection of fleshly desires and worldly corruption. By sharing simple, plant-based food, they demonstrated their commitment to spiritual elevation and the interconnectedness of life. This practice also aligned with their broader ethical concerns about compassion, aligning the physical act of eating with the moral and spiritual ideals they believed Christ embodied.

For the Nazoreans and Ebionites, the Love Feast was not just a meal but a deeply communal and mystical experience, embodying Gnostic ideas of unity with the divine. It symbolized the breaking down of barriers between individuals and the fostering of a spiritual brotherhood that transcended physical concerns. In this sense, the Last Supper was a celebration of divine wisdom, love, and the potential for spiritual enlightenment, distinct from later sacramental interpretations. Their practices reflected a worldview in which the material world was seen as secondary to the spiritual, and the meal became a medium for transcending the mundane and aligning with divine truth.

Agape Gnostic Love Feast

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The Case for Jesus and Early Christian Vegetarianism

Dear friends, today I invite you to reflect on evidence that has been largely overlooked but deserves our serious consideration: the possibility that Jesus and the earliest Christians lived a vegetarian lifestyle. This is not just an idea born out of modern concerns but a perspective deeply rooted in ancient texts, early Christian traditions, and historical records.

First, let us begin with the figure of John the Baptist, a man revered as the forerunner of Christ. Traditionally, John is said to have eaten locusts and wild honey, but alternative translations and ancient texts like the Gospel of the Ebionites suggest that “locusts” may have been mistranslated, and he likely ate “honey cakes” or manna, both vegetarian foods. Could this indicate a broader ethos of compassion and simplicity, reflective of a plant-based diet?

Consider also James the Just, the brother of Jesus and a key leader of the early Christian community. Historical accounts, including those by Hegesippus, describe James as a Nazarite, a man who abstained from meat and alcohol. As Jesus’ closest companion, wouldn’t James have exemplified his brother’s teachings? Scholars like Robert Eisenman suggest that James’ vegetarianism reflects the values of the original Jesus movement.

Furthermore, early Christian texts such as the Clementine Homilies advocate for abstaining from meat, aligning with the belief that humanity was created to live in harmony with all creatures. These writings reveal that early Christian communities may have viewed vegetarianism not just as a dietary choice but as a moral imperative, integral to living a life of love, mercy, and nonviolence—the very heart of Jesus’ teachings.

Finally, let us look to the Ebionites, an early Jewish-Christian sect who followed Jesus’ teachings and practiced vegetarianism. Though dismissed by later church orthodoxy, their practices and beliefs offer a glimpse into the original teachings of Christ. Alongside them, the Mandaeans and other ancient sects reveal that vegetarianism was not just an anomaly but a recurring theme among early spiritual movements.

Friends, this is not a call to rewrite scripture but to recognize the undeniable evidence before us—evidence that challenges us to reevaluate our understanding of Jesus’ teachings and the practices of his earliest followers. It reminds us to approach history with humility and a willingness to learn. Whether or not we adopt these practices ourselves, let us honor the compassion and respect for life that these traditions embody, for they are timeless truths deeply aligned with the spirit of Christ.

Amen.

Yeshua as an Ebionite Nazarene vegetarian prophet and messiah, embodying compassion and harmony with nature.

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The Big Secret of the Gnostic Gospels

The most profound and esoteric secret of the Gnostics, based on the Nag Hammadi Library and broader Gnostic tradition, centers on the realization of the divine spark within humanity and the ultimate path to liberation from material existence. This concept is multi-layered, deeply symbolic, and central to Gnostic cosmology and spirituality.

The Divine Spark and the Gnostic Secret:

  1. The Divine Origin of Humanity:
    The Gnostics believed that within each individual resides a fragment of the divine, often referred to as the divine spark or light. This spark originates from the Pleroma (the fullness of the divine realm), a realm of pure, ineffable light and unity. However, humanity is trapped in the material world, which they viewed as the flawed creation of the Demiurge, a lesser and ignorant deity.
  2. The Material World as an Illusion:
    The material world, with its suffering, ignorance, and cycles of birth and death, is seen as a prison designed to keep the divine spark bound. The Demiurge, and the Archons (his assistants), enforce this illusion, ensuring humanity remains unaware of its true origins and divine potential.
  3. Salvation Through Gnosis:
    The “secret” of the Gnostics lies in achieving gnosis—a direct, experiential knowledge of the divine. This knowledge awakens the individual to their true identity as a being of light and their origin in the Pleroma. Gnosis transcends intellectual understanding; it is a profound inner realization that leads to spiritual liberation.
  4. The Journey of the Soul:
    Many Gnostic texts describe the journey of the soul as it seeks to return to the Pleroma. This journey involves overcoming the influence of the Archons, breaking free from the illusions of the material world, and ascending through spiritual realms. This path often requires self-knowledge, ascetic practices, and the guidance of a redeemer figure, such as Jesus or other divine emissaries.
  5. The Role of the Savior:
    In Gnostic cosmology, figures like Jesus are not merely saviors in the traditional sense but bringers of gnosis. They descend into the material realm to awaken humanity, teach the mysteries of existence, and guide the divine sparks back to their origin.
  6. Unity with the Divine:
    The ultimate goal of Gnosticism is not simply salvation in a conventional sense but reunion with the divine source.This reunion dissolves the illusion of separation and restores the individual to their true state of wholeness within the Pleroma.

The Most Coveted Esoteric Secret:

The most coveted secret of the Gnostics is this: you are not merely a being trapped in a flawed material world but a fragment of the divine, with the potential to awaken, transcend the illusions of the Demiurge, and reunite with the infinite source of light and love. This realization is not given by external authorities but is found within through direct spiritual experience.

This message, deeply empowering and liberating, challenges conventional religious structures and authority, which is why it was often suppressed or misunderstood. It remains a timeless teaching for those seeking deeper truths about existence, spirituality, and the nature of reality.

Gnostic Nazorean Love Feast

Here are some of the most profound and secretive verses from the Gnostic Gospels (primarily from the Nag Hammadi Library) that reveal the esoteric knowledge (gnosis) of the divine spark and humanity’s spiritual liberation. These passages illuminate the hidden truths central to Gnostic teachings:


1. The Gospel of Thomas

This collection of Jesus’ sayings is considered one of the most significant texts in Gnosticism.

Verse 3:
“If those who lead you say to you, ‘See, the Kingdom is in the sky,’ then the birds of the sky will precede you. If they say to you, ‘It is in the sea,’ then the fish will precede you. Rather, the Kingdom is inside you and it is outside you. When you come to know yourselves, then you will be known, and you will realize that you are the children of the living Father. But if you do not know yourselves, you dwell in poverty and you are poverty.”


Revealed Gnosis: The divine spark resides within; self-knowledge is the key to discovering one’s true nature and connection to the divine.


2. The Gospel of Philip

A mystical and symbolic exploration of spiritual truths.


Verse 67:
“You saw the Spirit, you became spirit. You saw Christ, you became Christ. You saw the Father, you shall become Father.”


Revealed Gnosis: The process of gnosis transforms the individual into their divine essence, aligning them with the source of creation.

Verse 112:
“The world came into being through error. For he who created it wanted to create it imperishable and immortal. He failed and did not attain his hope. For the world is not imperishable, nor is it immortal. But the children are.”


Revealed Gnosis: The material world is flawed and temporary, but the divine spark within humanity is eternal.


3. The Gospel of Truth

A poetic reflection on the nature of ignorance and enlightenment.


Section 18:
“For the one whom they sought after was within them all along. And the one who is perfect, the Father, is within them, and they did not know him. He revealed himself in a knowledge that is in harmony with his spirit, the knowledge that he is the one who exists from the aeons, filling everyone with himself.”


Revealed Gnosis: God is not an external entity but exists within all beings. Ignorance of this truth is the cause of suffering.


4. The Apocryphon of John

A foundational text of Gnostic cosmology and theology.


Section 29:
“I am the light that exists within all light. I am the remembrance of the Pleroma, bringing the spark of the divine to those who dwell in forgetfulness. Awaken and remember, for you are children of the light.”


Revealed Gnosis: Humanity’s true essence is light, but it has been obscured by ignorance (forgetfulness). Gnosis awakens this divine remembrance.


5. The Gospel of Mary Magdalene

A text that emphasizes inner wisdom and spiritual freedom.


Chapter 4, Verses 22-24:
“Be on your guard so that no one deceives you by saying, ‘Look over here!’ or ‘Look over there!’ For the Son of Man is within you. Follow him! Those who seek him will find him.”


Revealed Gnosis: The path to divine truth is internal, not external. The divine resides within each person.


6. The Tripartite Tractate

A philosophical exploration of Gnostic theology.


Section 84:
“The truth was not revealed to all but was reserved for those who are able to awaken to the light within themselves. The children of light are destined to return to the fullness of the Pleroma.”


Revealed Gnosis: Gnosis is not accessible to everyone but to those prepared to awaken and seek the divine light within.


7. The Thunder, Perfect Mind

A mysterious and poetic Gnostic text.


Section 13:
“For I am the first and the last. I am the honored one and the scorned one. I am the whore and the holy one. I am the voice of the hidden truth, dwelling within all beings.”


Revealed Gnosis: The divine encompasses all dualities and resides within the depths of every individual.


8. The Second Treatise of the Great Seth

A critique of materialism and affirmation of spiritual liberation.


Section 65:
“It was not I who was crucified but rather the shadow. I am the divine light that cannot be harmed, dwelling within all who have awakened.”


Revealed Gnosis: The divine essence is beyond the reach of physical harm or material suffering.


Key Themes in These Secret Verses:

  • Self-knowledge: True salvation comes from knowing oneself as a manifestation of the divine.
  • Divine spark: The core of human existence is a fragment of divine light, yearning to return to its source.
  • Material illusion: The material world is a temporary and flawed construct; true reality lies in the spiritual realm.
  • Awakening: Gnosis is the process of awakening from ignorance to the knowledge of one’s divine origin and destiny.

These passages form the heart of Gnostic teachings and provide profound insights into the mysteries of existence, the nature of the divine, and the path to spiritual liberation.

Gnostic Nazorean Vegetarian Love Feast

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The Lord’s Prayer in Aramaic

The Lord’s Prayer translation from Aramaic (the language of Jesus)

The Aramaic version of the Lord’s Prayer is considered closer to how Jesus might have spoken it, as he likely used Aramaic, the language of his time and region. Here is an Aramaic version of the prayer and a transliteration, followed by a line-by-line Gnostic commentary:

The Lord’s Prayer in Aramaic

Text:

Abwoon d’bashmaya
Nethqadash shmakh
Teytey malkuthakh
Nehwey sebyanach aykanna d’bwashmaya aph b’arha
Hawvlan lachma d’sunqanan yaomana
Washboqlan khaubayn aykana daph khnan shbwoqan l’khayyabayn
Wela tahlan l’nesyuna
Ela patzan min bisha
Metol dilakhie malkutha wahayla wateshbukhta l’ahlam almin, ameyn.

Translation:

Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be Thy Name.
Thy Kingdom come,
Thy Will be done,
on Earth as it is in Heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.


Gnostic Commentary on the Aramaic Prayer

  1. “Abwoon d’bashmaya” – “Our Father, who art in heaven”
    The word “Abwoon” can be broken down as “Abba” (Father) and “Woon” (source or womb). This addresses the Divine as both a Father and the Source of all life, embracing the masculine and feminine. In Gnostic spirituality, this is a recognition of the Divine Pleroma, the Fullness where masculine and feminine principles exist in harmony and unity beyond the confines of duality.
  2. “Nethqadash shmakh” – “Hallowed be Thy Name”
    The idea of “hallowing” or making sacred the Divine Name suggests an acknowledgment of an ineffable, transcendent reality. In Gnostic thought, this Divine Name represents the indescribable essence of the Source beyond all conceptions. Naming it is not to limit it but to celebrate its mystery, as in Gnosticism, the ultimate Divine reality is unknowable and beyond ordinary perception.
  3. “Teytey malkuthakh” – “Thy Kingdom come”
    The “Kingdom” is often interpreted in Gnosticism as the Divine Spark within each person. This line expresses a call for the inner Divine presence (often symbolized by Sophia, wisdom) to awaken within. It is a reminder that we, too, are part of the spiritual realm, and the Kingdom of Heaven is within us.
  4. “Nehwey sebyanach aykanna d’bwashmaya aph b’arha” – “Thy Will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven”
    This line suggests that the harmony of the spiritual realms should be reflected on Earth. Gnostics believe the material world is a shadow of the Divine, a lesser emanation often seen as a place of illusion. To bring Heaven to Earth is to awaken to the Divine truth, transcending the limitations of material existence and experiencing spiritual unity.
  5. “Hawvlan lachma d’sunqanan yaomana” – “Give us this day our daily bread”
    While traditionally seen as a request for sustenance, this “bread” in Gnostic terms might be interpreted as the “bread of wisdom” or spiritual nourishment. Here, the prayer is for the inner sustenance of knowledge (gnosis), which feeds the soul rather than the body, enabling one to transcend the material and awaken to inner truths.
  6. “Washboqlan khaubayn aykana daph khnan shbwoqan l’khayyabayn” – “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us”
    Forgiveness, in Gnostic thought, is an act of liberating oneself from the chains of the Demiurge, the creator of this imperfect material world. To forgive is to release karmic entanglements and to free oneself and others from the illusions of separateness and judgment. This mutual forgiveness clears the way for spiritual ascent.
  7. “Wela tahlan l’nesyuna” – “And lead us not into temptation”
    In Gnosticism, “temptation” refers to the allure of the material world, which is filled with distractions that keep us from spiritual awakening. This prayer is a request for assistance in resisting attachment to illusionary pleasures and remaining focused on the journey to spiritual enlightenment.
  8. “Ela patzan min bisha” – “But deliver us from evil”
    Gnosticism often interprets “evil” as ignorance, particularly ignorance of the Divine Spark within. Here, the plea is to be freed from ignorance and falsehood, breaking the chains of the Demiurge’s world and moving toward truth, understanding, and gnosis.
  9. “Metol dilakhie malkutha wahayla wateshbukhta l’ahlam almin, ameyn” – “For Thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.”
    This final line is a declaration of the Divine Fullness. The Kingdom, power, and glory are inherent in the Source, the Pleroma, beyond the limited physical reality. This is a call to align with that boundless reality and affirm our connection with it eternally.

In Gnostic interpretation, the Lord’s Prayer is not merely a plea for guidance and protection but a roadmap for returning to the Divine Source. Each line reflects the journey from the confines of earthly existence, through understanding, forgiveness, and transcendence, toward a direct experience of the Divine unity within.

🕊️🕊️🕊️

Here’s a comparison of this Aramaic-inspired translation of the Lord’s Prayer with the traditional English version. This translation emphasizes the unity and cosmic nature of the Divine, aligning with some Gnostic and mystical interpretations. Each line in this modern version has subtle differences that deepen its spiritual focus.


  1. “Our Father, who art in heaven”
    Modern Translation: “O Birther! Father-Mother of the Cosmos”
  • Comparison: This line expands the Divine to a nurturing, universal Creator, embracing both masculine and feminine qualities, rather than a paternal figure alone.
  1. “Hallowed be Thy Name”
    Modern Translation: “Focus your light within us—make it useful.”
  • Comparison: Instead of simply revering the Divine Name, this line calls for an inward illumination that is purposeful. It suggests that the sacred should manifest practically through us.
  1. “Thy Kingdom come”
    Modern Translation: “Create your reign of unity now.”
  • Comparison: Here, the “Kingdom” is seen as a unifying force in the present moment, rather than a future divine realm. It emphasizes an immediate experience of unity.
  1. “Thy Will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven”
    Modern Translation: “Your one desire then acts with ours, as in all light, so in all forms.”
  • Comparison: This line suggests a harmonious alignment between divine and human will, reflecting a non-dual understanding where Divine will is expressed through all forms of existence.
  1. “Give us this day our daily bread”
    Modern Translation: “Grant what we need each day in bread and insight.”
  • Comparison: This version adds “insight” alongside bread, merging physical sustenance with spiritual wisdom, highlighting that we need both to thrive.
  1. “And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us”
    Modern Translation: “Loose the cords of mistakes binding us, as we release the strands we hold of others’ guilt.”
  • Comparison: Rather than a traditional view of “sin,” this line refers to “cords of mistakes,” suggesting that forgiveness is a process of untangling and releasing mutual guilt, fostering liberation.
  1. “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil”
    Modern Translation: “Don’t let surface things delude us, but free us from what holds us back.”
  • Comparison: Instead of “temptation” and “evil,” this line speaks of delusion and inner limitations. It’s a request to stay centered and not be led astray by illusions.
  1. “For Thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever”
    Modern Translation: “From you is born all ruling will, the power and the life to do, the song that beautifies all, from age to age it renews.”
  • Comparison: This line describes the Divine as the source of all purpose and beauty that sustains the cosmos. It’s less about a sovereign kingdom and more about a creative, renewing force that encompasses life itself.
  1. “Amen”
    Modern Translation: “Truly—power to these statements—may they be the ground from which all my actions grow: Amen.”
  • Comparison: This final line adds a personal intention for these words to ground one’s actions, implying a transformative commitment rather than a simple affirmation.

Summary

This modern translation reinterprets the Lord’s Prayer as a cosmic, inward journey rather than a traditional petition to a distant deity. It emphasizes unity, personal responsibility, forgiveness as liberation, and spiritual growth. Instead of focusing on divine intervention, it calls for inner alignment with the Divine presence and power already within us. This aligns well with mystical and Gnostic perspectives, viewing the prayer as an invocation for spiritual awakening and empowerment.

Nazorean Christ

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Vegetarian Lifestyle of the Nazoreans

The vegetarian lifestyle of the Nazoreans has been a longstanding topic of debate among religious scholars. While the practice of not consuming animal products has been maintained for more than two thousand years, there is a general lack of consensus regarding its origin and development over time. This paper will explore the various theories that have been suggested by scholars regarding the vegetarian lifestyle of the Nazoreans. Additionally, the most current peer-reviewed studies on the topic are analyzed in order to bring attention to both the complexities and benefits associated with the practice.

The first and most prominent theory regarding the origin of Nazorean vegetarianism dates back to ancient Judaism. This line of argument claims that Moses and the ancient Israelites, who were vegan by choice, inspired the Nazoreans and their choice to abstain from animal products. Other historical accounts suggest that the vegetarian lifestyle of the Nazoreans was adopted from the Essenes, a Jewish sect known for their asceticism and dietary restrictions. While these theories are all viable options for consideration, more recent scholarship has focused on the ritual practices of the Nazoreans as an indication of their adherence to the vegetarian lifestyle.

Peer-reviewed studies have provided substantive evidence indicating that the vegetarian lifestyle of the Nazoreans was related to a variety of rituals and ceremonies, including seasonal feasts and special occasions. For instance, one study found that during the Egyptian festivals of Pascha and Unleavened Bread, all animal products were abstained from and replaced with plant-based alternatives in celebration. During these times, the consumption of animal products was thought to be both a violation of the Nazoreans’ faith and an act of impurity. Scholars believe that this ritual abstinence provided an impetus for the development and maintenance of the Nazorean vegetarian lifestyle.

In addition to this ritualistic motivation, contemporary scholars have suggested that the provision of animal-free food was motivated by both ethical and health-related considerations. Existing evidence suggests that vegetarian diets positively benefit both emotions and physical health, and it is possible that the Nazoreans valued these dietary considerations. Furthermore, it has been argued that the features of the Nazorean diet, such as its inclusion of vegetables, legumes, and fruits, may have been seen as a means to promote harmony and balance within the community.

In conclusion, the vegetarian lifestyle of the Nazoreans is a complex phenomenon that has been the subject of numerous scholarly debates for more than two thousand years. While a variety of theories have been proposed regarding its origin, the most recently published peer-reviewed studies suggest that the practice has been influenced by a range of motivations, including ritualistic practices, diet considerations, and ethical considerations. As research on the topic continues, further insight into the relationship between the Nazorean vegetarian lifestyle and its social and cultural background may be revealed.

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The Hidden History of Greco-Roman Vegetarianism

If asked about ancient Greece or Rome, the average American conjures images of famous battles, myths, and Hollywood movies. However, overlooked by the majority of modern Americans is the hidden history of ancient Greek and Roman vegetarianism and the ageless debate upon what justice is due animals. Many people assume that the predominant omnivorous diet has been the accepted diet from past to present, but history tells a different story. In addition, past philosophers reveal a fierce debate not only over diet, but about the notion of justice and to whom it applies. The debate has not ended, but in order to know where the future of this debate should go, this past should be known by all participants.

Plato

Before diving into the teachings of the Greek and Roman philosophers, it is important that the Greek and Roman diet be understood. For the Greeks and Romans, cereals, vegetables, and fruit composed much of their diet. The meat that was consumed was usually fish, fowl, or pigs, which were the cheapest and most convenient animals people could kill for their flesh. However, only the wealthiest citizens could afford to eat large amounts of meat on a regular basis.

The first philosopher in the West to create a lasting vegetarian legacy was the Greek teacher Pythagoras. He was born on the island of Samos in 580 BCE and studied in what are now the countries of Greece, Egypt, and Iraq before establishing his school in southern Italy at the city of Croton. While Pythagoras is famous for his contributions to math, music, science, and philosophy, it is his philosophy that is of particular interest. He taught that all animals, not just humans, had souls, which were immortal and reincarnated after death. Since a human might become an animal at death, and an animal might become a human, Pythagoras believed that killing and eating non-human animals sullied the soul and prevented union with a higher form of reality. Additionally, he felt that eating meat was unhealthy and made humans wage war against one another. For these reasons, he abstained from meat and encouraged others to do likewise, perhaps making him one of the earliest campaigners for ethical vegetarianism.

The Greek philosopher Plato (428/427-348/347 BCE) was influenced by Pythagorean concepts but did not go as far as Pythagoras did. It is unclear exactly what his diet consisted of, but Plato’s teachings asserted only humans had immortal souls and that the universe was for human use. Yet, in The Republic, Plato’s character Socrates asserted that the ideal city was a vegetarian city on the grounds that meat was a luxury leading to decadence and war. Thus, to Plato, abstention from flesh is warranted out of a desire for peace and an avoidance of indulgent, excessive living.

Plato’s student Aristotle (384-322 BCE) also felt the universe was for human use and that only human souls were immortal. Additionally, he argued in favor of a hierarchy of beings in which plants occupied the lowest rung of the ladder and humans the highest. In this hierarchy, Aristotle argued that women were lesser compared to men and some humans were natural slaves. As for animals, as Norm Phelps in The Longest Strugglepoints out, Aristotle reasoned that there was no ethical obligation to animals because they were irrational. Colin Spencer, in The Heretic’s Feast, noted that Aristotle argued non-human animals could not manage themselves without human aid in spite of all evidence to the contrary. In short, Aristotle established many reasons used against giving proper justice to non-human and human animals alike.

Aristotle was not the only philosopher to advance some of these views. According to Spencer, the founder of Stoicism, Zeno (c. 335-c. 263 BCE), like Aristotle, argued that there was a hierarchy of beings with plants lowest and humans highest. Similarly, Spencer said Zeno declared animals undeserving of justice due to their inability to reason, but, unlike Aristotle, he sustained himself on a diet of bread, honey, and water. Zeno demonstrated that people have embraced a vegetarian diet for many reasons and while they may not be out of concern for animals, the vegetarian diet itself was seen as providing a wholesome way of life.

A contemporary of Zeno’s was the philosopher Epicurus (341-270 BCE). Epicurus agreed that the universe was for humans. Spencer said Epicurus differed from the above philosophers by arguing that souls cease to exist at death; thus, death was nothing to fear. Another core element to his philosophy was a belief in the goodness of pleasure and the evil of pain. He thought that desire caused pain, and human dependence on temporary pleasures deprived them of true pleasure. Because of this belief, Epicurus did not eat meat as it was a luxury that distracted people from a better life. However, he made no prohibition against eating flesh, which allowed the practice to continue among adopters of his creed. While he lack a stated prohibition, his personal example illustrated what he thought was the ideal way to live, and so, like Zeno, provided another historical support in favor of the vegetarian diet.

Arguing against Aristotle’s views on animals was Aristotle’s pupil and friend Theophrastus (c. 372-c. 287 BCE), a Greek biologist and philosopher. Theophrastus argued that killing animals for food was wasteful and morally wrong. Hypothesizing as to the origin of flesh eating, he argued that war must have forced humans to eat meat by ruining the crops that they otherwise would have eaten. Unlike his teacher, Theophrastus proclaimed that animal sacrifices angered the gods and turned humanity towards atheism. Clearly, religious arguments have long been used as motivation to pursue a vegetarian diet.

Preserving the legacy of Pythagoras was the poet and moralist Ovid (43 BCE-17 CE). Ovid was a Pythagorean-influenced Stoic, who was exiled to Tomis in 8 CE by the emperor Augustus. In his poem Metamorphoses, Ovid evoked the passionate pleas of Pythagoras for people to abandon animal sacrifice and abstain from eating flesh. These passages kept the memory of Pythagoras alive and served as testament to Ovid’s own vegetarian lifestyle.

Influenced by Pythagoras and Epicurus, the Roman philosopher Seneca (c. 4 BCE-65 CE) adopted a vegetarian diet. Spencer states that Seneca denounced the cruelty of the games used by Rome to distract the citizenry and challenged the decadence of his time. Seneca was forced to hide his vegetarianism for a time under the emperor Caligula due to Caligula’s distrust. Under the emperor Nero, his former student, Seneca was forced to commit suicide at age 60, due either to rumors in the court or Nero’s jealousy.

Another Greek philosopher who argued on behalf of animals was the biographer and philosopher Plutarch (46-c. 120 CE). Influenced by Pythagorean philosophy, Plutarch adopted a vegetarian diet and wrote several essays in favor of vegetarianism as well as arguing that animals were rational and deserving of consideration. In particular, his essay On the Eating of Flesh is noteworthy for some arguments familiar to today’s vegetarians, such as the inefficiency of the human digestive system to handle flesh or the fact that humans lack the claws and fangs necessary for to the satisfaction of a carnivorous appetite. For these reasons, Plutarch is truly noteworthy as one of the earliest advocates of animal issues.

After Plutarch, the Greek philosopher Plotinus (205-270 CE) combined Pythagoreanism, Platonism, and Stoicism into a school of philosophy called Neoplatonism. He taught that all animals feel pain and pleasure, not just humans. According to Jon Gregerson, author of Vegetarianism: A History, Plotinus believed in order for humans to unite with the Supreme Reality, humans had to treat all animals with compassion. Seeking to practice what he preached, Plotinus avoided medicine made from animals. He allowed for the wearing of wool and the use of animals for farm labor, but he mandated humane treatment.

Continuing the work of Plotinus was the great Phoenician author and philosopher Porphyry (c. 232-c. 305 CE). He argued with observational and historical evidence in defense of vegetarianism and the rationality of animals. According to Spencer, in On the Impropriety of Killing Living Beings for Food, Porphyry argued meat eating encouraged violence, demonstrated the ability of animals to reason, and argued that justice should be extended to them. Like Plutarch, Porphyry ranks as one of the greatest voices for early Western vegetarianism.

Vegetarianism and animal rights have a long history in Western civilization stretching to antiquity that is unknown or forgotten by many people today. What this hidden history teaches is that many Greeks and Romans survived without eating animal flesh or using animal products. Likewise, it teaches that arguments for and against animal rights are as ancient as Greek philosophy. It demonstrates that many of the same reasons for not eating flesh today are the same as those in the past whether out of spirituality, health, peace, or justice. Furthermore, the modern animal rights movement is built upon this past. Finally, this information presents important voices that should be considered in the debate on vegetarianism and animal rights.

Nathan Morgan

Nathan Morgan, a 2010 graduate of Montana State University Billings, gave a paper on the topic of vegetarianism in the classical world at a recent animal welfare conference in Minneapolis.

Bust of Plato

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The Secret Lineage of Mary Magdalene – Poem

In hidden whispers, tales unfold,
Of Mary Magdalene, her lineage untold.
Gnostic visions, veiled in mist,
A sacred journey, her essence kissed.

Born of ancient mystic kin,
Her bloodline woven, a sacred spin.
A vessel of truths, she carried the lore,
From realms beyond, she did explore.

From desert sands to starlit skies,
Her wisdom soared, where angels rise.
In sacred union, she found her way,
An alchemical dance, night to day.

Gnostic flame, a torch she bore,
Through timeless realms, forevermore.
Her secret lineage, a cosmic thread,
Woven in stars, where mystics tread.

Divine feminine, a cosmic guide,
In her presence, seekers abide.
Mary Magdalene, keeper of keys,
Unveils the secrets, across all seas.

Through aeons passed, her light shines bright,
A beacon of truth, in the depths of night.
Gnostic whispers, a sacred rhyme,
Mary’s lineage transcends all time.

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Nazorean Wisdom Unveiled

Once upon a time, in a quaint village nestled amidst rolling hills, there lived a community known as the Nazoreans. They were a group of individuals who were revered by the villagers for their profound wisdom and unwavering commitment to the pursuit of truth and knowledge.

The Nazoreans were believed to be the branches of a timeless perennial wisdom that had been passed down through the ages. They were the custodians of ancient teachings and were entrusted with the responsibility of preserving and disseminating this invaluable wisdom to future generations.

From an early age, the Nazorean children were initiated into a rigorous training regimen. They would gather in a sacred grove, surrounded by ancient trees, to learn from the wise elders who imparted their knowledge with great reverence and care. The children were taught the secrets of the universe, the interconnectedness of all things, and the importance of living in harmony with nature.

As they grew older, the Nazoreans embarked on individual quests to deepen their understanding of the perennial wisdom. They traveled far and wide, seeking out ancient texts, studying under enlightened masters, and engaging in contemplative practices to unlock the hidden truths of existence.

Each Nazorean developed their unique area of expertise. Some delved into the mysteries of the stars, mapping constellations and deciphering the celestial language. Others immersed themselves in the healing arts, exploring the delicate balance between the body, mind, and spirit. Some studied the ancient scriptures and religious texts, drawing out the underlying spiritual principles that transcended time and culture.

Despite their diverse paths, the Nazoreans remained connected through a common thread—their unwavering commitment to the pursuit of wisdom and the greater good of humanity. They would periodically gather in the village square, where the elders would share their newfound insights and engage in spirited discussions that challenged and expanded their understanding.

The village revered the Nazoreans as beacons of knowledge and enlightenment. They sought their counsel in times of trouble and celebrated their achievements as if they were the triumphs of the entire community. The Nazoreans, in turn, embraced their role with humility, recognizing that the wisdom they possessed was not for personal gain but for the betterment of all.

As time passed, the village thrived under the guidance of the Nazoreans. Their wisdom permeated every aspect of life, shaping the values, customs, and relationships of the community. The villagers grew in their understanding of themselves and the world around them, finding solace and inspiration in the timeless teachings of the Nazoreans.

Generations came and went, but the perennial wisdom of the Nazoreans continued to flow like an eternal river. The village became a sanctuary of knowledge, a place where seekers from far and wide would come to drink from the well of wisdom that the Nazoreans had nurtured.

And so, the story of the Nazoreans as the branches of the timeless perennial wisdom of the ages became etched in the annals of history. Their legacy lived on, a testament to the transformative power of knowledge, and a reminder that the pursuit of wisdom was a lifelong journey that transcended the boundaries of time and space.

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Mary Magdalene an Ethiopian Princess?

The legends of Mary Magdalene being an Ethiopian princess date back to the ancient times of the 1st & 2nd centuries. It is said that she was born in Egypt, either the daughter of a wealthy Jewish merchant or a princess of Ethiopia, and that she was raised near the temple of Isis in Alexandria. She was a revered princess, where it was believed she was trained in the art of healing and possessed magical powers.

When Mary Magdalene was about eighteen she received a message from God telling her to leave her home and travel to Galilee. There, she met Jesus and immediately recognized him as the Son of God. She began to follow him, and it is said that she was the first female to do so. After Jesus performed miracles and preached, Mary became his closest follower, traveling frequently with him teaching his message. She was eventually recognized as an apostle and it is said that Jesus openly acknowledged her.

The fame of Mary Magdalene as a follower of Jesus would continue even after his death. During the time of his crucifixion it was said that she had remained faithful to him, and after his burial, it is said that she had gone to his tomb. As such, Mary Magdalene has since become known as a symbol for faith, hope, and redemption.

Many folk tales and legends exist about Mary Magdalene’s origins. One such story tells of a faithful soldier from Ethiopia who pledged his life to serve the Lord. This soldier supposedly had a daughter named Mary, who was raised in a wealthy, royal home and was taught the ways of healing and magic. Some believe that this daughter was actually Mary Magdalene.

Regardless of the myths and legends, Mary Magdalene remains an enigmatic and inspiring figure from history, who is seen as a symbol of faith, love, and hope. Her Ethiopian roots and background continue to mystify and fascinate both religious and non-religious followers alike.

Mary Magdalene, she was the apple of His eye,
His love for her held strong and deep and never did wander by.

He held her close and whispered soft, to her soul He could relate, and through their love they would transcend the meager trials of fate.

For Him she was a loving wife, whom He treasured to the core, the love between the two was like two birds forever they would soar.

The Holy Spirit was the link that brought them ever closer, their faith in each other kept them tighter than a silver closure.

The Sacred Union of the two upon a dark night in the woods, will be remembered till the end of time and the way that Mary could.

As Mary wept with divine love, she would cling tightly to His side, and while love in the world abounds, their bond is forever tied. ????

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Anatomy of Enlightenment & The Truth About the Serpent

The Anatomy of Enlightenment According to Esoteric Philosophy: A Look at “The Truth About the Serpent”

Esoteric philosophy speaks to the truth of the human spirit, providing a backdrop for understanding our connection to the cosmos and the divinity of our inherent selves. This ancient wisdom is rife with symbolism, particularly with reference to the serpent. One of its most beloved archetypes speaks to an anatomy that can unlock inner depths of power, passion and courage—essentially, it teaches us how to connect to our true selves and live a life of understanding and enlightenment. Taking a closer look at this ancient wisdom, let’s examine the anatomy of enlightenment as it relates to “the truth about the serpent” with references to how the Gnostics view the serpent, the idea of kundalini and the serpent in the Garden of Eden.

In regards to the Gnostics, the serpent archetype served as a symbol of the savior offering emancipation from ignorance and oppression. In the Gnostic creation story, the serpent is elevated to the status of saviour and teacher, elevating man to knowledge and understanding that is rooted in truth and freedom rather than imprisonment by ignorance. The serpent is also symbolic of the spiritual path, offering us divine knowledge as a way of liberating us from suffering and personal bondage. In esoteric philosophy, the image of the serpent is seen as a metaphor for spiritual knowledge and revealed truth—a representation of the power of awakening, or “yoga”, as it is commonly referred to—that exists within us, leading us on the path to enlightenment.

The serpent is particularly connected to the concept of kundalini energy. This energy is the power of pure, divine fluidity and movement within the body, awakening and opening the pathways to liberation and union with divine consciousness. Kundalini is understood to be a living force that resides within us, accessible through subtle yoga techniques and meditation. Through the channeling of kundalini energy, we can awaken the serpent within. Kundalini rises, also referred to as “Serpent Power”, connecting us with infinite sources of life-force and restoring the connection between our physical and spiritual bodies. The power of Kundalini is primal and pure, providing a route to the true self and ultimately the Divine.

The serpent also holds a special place in the story of the Garden of Eden. As the serpent in the garden, it is seen as a provider of knowledge and forbidden wisdom, enticing man and woman to come to understandings of truth, thus providing them with all the power of the divine. The serpent is seen as a figure of illuminative power and insight, providing the spark of understanding that propels us towards awakening and ultimately, enlightenment.

In summary, the anatomy of enlightenment is illuminated in the powerful symbolism of the serpent. As taught by esoteric philosophy and supported by the Gnostics, this archetype speaks to an inner power within each of us that can be recognized and tapped into via methods such as kundalini awakening and meditation. Additionally, the serpent serves to highlight the importance of knowledge and understanding and the power of this enlightenment in setting us free. Ultimately, by unlocking the mysteries of the serpent within, we can rise in our own power and activate the pathways of freedom, truth and connection to our greater source.

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