Tag Archives: gnostic Christ

Gnostic, History, India, Mystical, Spiritual, Stories

Ibn Arabi – Sufi Poet & Mystic

Leave a comment

In his book The Sufis, Idries Shah provides a detailed account of the life and teachings of one of the most important figures of Sufism, Muhyi al-Din Ibn Arabi (1165-1240). Ibn Arabi was a prominent scholar, mystic, and poet whose writings contributed greatly to the development of Sufism and Islamic theology. Although his life and teachings were controversial in his lifetime, Ibn Arabi is considered an important figure in Islamic spirituality, and is known for his influential teachings on the concept of God’s unity and his emphasis on spiritual experience over intellectual knowledge. We will provide an overview of Ibn Arabi’s life and teachings, with a focus on the chapter in Shah’s book The Sufis about Ibn Arabi.

Biography

Ibn Arabi was born in Murcia, Spain, in 1165. His father was a lawyer from Seville, and his mother was from an important Andalusian noble family. Arabi was educated at the famous Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo, Egypt, where he studied Islamic theology, philosophy, and Sufism. He was also influenced by the teachings of al-Ghazali, an influential medieval thinker and Sufi scholar whose works would later become one of the major sources of Ibn Arabi’s teachings.

At an early stage, Ibn Arabi developed a passionate interest in spirituality and mysticism, and began to develop his own powerful teachings. Eventually, he settled in Damascus and began to teach, travel, and write extensively. His writings spanned many topics, but focused primarily on his theories of unity, love, and integration. He wrote about the divine unity and the essential oneness of all creation, and about the need for a strong connection between the individual and the divine in order to find inner harmony and peace.

Ibn Arabi’s Teachings

Ibn Arabi’s most important contribution to Sufi teachings was his concept of unity in God, or wahdat al-wujud. He preached that since God is one, all of creation is essentially one with Him, and all beings share in His oneness. He believed that humans could experience the fullness of God’s unity through a direct experience of the divine within, and that this experience was a necessary prerequisite for spiritual development. He also believed that the self can only be fully realized when it is connected to the divine, and that this connection is achieved through the practice of dhikr, or remembrance of God.

In his writings, Ibn Arabi also sought to bridge the gap between philosophy and mystical experience, and to emphasize the importance of both forms of knowledge. He argued that true understanding of the divine cannot be achieved through theoretical knowledge alone, but must also rely on subjective experience and direct contemplation of the divine. He believed that the true nature of reality could only be experienced through the direct experience of unity with the divine. 

Ibn Arabi was one of the most important figures in Islamic spirituality. His writings explored the concept of God’s unity and emphasized the need for a strong connection between the individual and divine in order to find inner harmony and peace. His life and teachings provide a powerful example of the importance of spiritual experience in developing a deeper understanding of God and of the world.

The Neo-Platonic influences on Ibn Arabi

Throughout history, the Muslim philosopher Ibn Arabi has been revered for his insistence on universal spirituality, his ability to synthesize different metaphysical traditions, and his expansive view of the world. Ibn Arabi’s writings have been critical to the formation of Sufism and his works continue to be cited and debated in Islamic scholarship. While established as an important figure in classical Islamic theology, Ibn Arabi’s teachings were heavily influenced by Neo-Platonic concepts. We will survey some of the key Neo-Platonic ideas that imbued Ibn Arabi’s writings and discuss the ways in which these ideas were expressed and extended in the philosopher’s work.

The term “Neo-Platonism” first appears in the writings of 15th century German scholar Johannes Reuchlin, who used it to describe the renaissance of Platonism that was taking place in the Islamic world in the 13th century. This period saw a revival of Platonic thought in the Islamic world that was heavily influenced by Neopythagorean speculation on the nature of the heavens, the divine, and the soul. Neo-Platonism influenced a great many Muslim philosophers, including Ibn Arabi.

Ibn Arabi’s writings are immersed in Neo-Platonism, from his One Thousand and One Treatises of Philosophy, to his major work, the Meccan Revelations. In the One Thousand and One Treatises, for instance, Ibn Arabi argues that the Neo-Platonic concept of the “Unity of Being” – the belief that all existence is effectively a single, unified entity – is key to understanding the nature of the spiritual path. In this regard, he goes beyond Neo-Platonic thought and strengthens its core concepts, such as God’s essential unity and the living, personal nature of Being. Similarly, in the Meccan Revelations, Ibn Arabi affirms the Neopythagorean belief in the unity of souls, but argues that a plurality of individual souls is the product of a complex and subtle mystical process.

Ibn Arabi was also influenced by the Neo-Platonic idea of the demiurge, or mediator between the material and the spiritual. For example, Ibn Arabi believed that humanity could become active participants in the cosmic process of self-realization, and argued that the spiritual “guide” was essential to this path. In this way, he was able to incorporate Neo-Platonic ideas of divine mediation into his own spiritual philosophy.

Finally, Ibn Arabi took Neo-Platonism beyond mere philosophical speculation and incorporated its concepts into Islamic theology. He argued that the Islamic tradition contains the truth of both Platonic and Neo-Platonic concepts, and sought to demonstrate how these truths manifest within Islamic theology. In this way, he was able to bridge the gap between these two philosophical traditions, as well as to establish an integrated worldview based on both.

Ibn Arabi’s writings are deeply influenced by Neo-Platonic concepts. Through his works, he was able to synthesize Neo-Platonism with the Islamic tradition and create an expansive vision of the universe that was rooted in the principle of the Unity of Being. While the Neo-Platonic ideas expounded by Ibn Arabi were complex, they ultimately helped to express the essence of his spiritual philosophy.

The Islamic mystic, Muhyddin Ibn Arabi, was a hugely influential thinker and writer who attempted to bridge the spiritual chasm between East and West. Borrowing ideas from both Hinduism and Islam, he created an innovative and controversial synthesis of the two traditions. One of the most influential of these ideas he inherited from Hinduism was the concept of Bhakti (devotional love). Let’s explore how this concept impacted Ibn Arabi’s thought and how it continued to influence Sufi traditions up to the present day.

What is Bhakti?

Bhakti is a Hindu term that refers to a devotional practice of love and sacrifice for a divine entity. It is closely related to the concept of puja, a ritualistic practice of worship intended to evoke a spiritual connection between an individual and the Divine. Bhakti can also be seen as a way of attaining spiritual liberation through the selfless act of devotion. The Bhakti movement itself was a product of the 11th century in which the idea of loving god spread across India, influencing literature and popular culture.

Ibn Arabi’s Influences

Ibn Arabi was deeply influenced by the Bhakti tradition. He saw it as a way to reconcile his Islamic faith with the spiritual practices he inherited from Hindu tradition. His writing was full of references to Bhakti, most notably in his ‘Futuhat al-makkiyya’ (Meccan Openings). Here, Ibn Arabi writes about love as being ‘the greatest of worships’, a sentiment deeply rooted in the Bhakti tradition. Ibn Arabi’s ideas on divine love, proximity and transcendence were largely shaped by his understanding of Bhakti.

Bhakti’s Influence on Sufism

Ibn Arabi’s understanding of Bhakti had a profound influence on the development of Sufism. During the 13th century, Sufi communities began to adopt Bhakti ideas of love and devotion from Ibn Arabi. This was reflected in popular Sufi interpretation of the Quran, which focused heavily on the theme of one’s relationship with god. This idea of a close relationship with the Divine was further developed by later Sufi thinkers such as Rumi and Shabistari.

Conclusion

This search has explored the influence of Hindu Bhakti on the mystic philosopher Muhyddin Ibn Arabi’s thought and how this has carried forward to shape the traditions of Sufism up to the present day. Ibn Arabi’s incorporation of Bhakti ideas into his philosophy provided a bridge between the two distinct traditions of Hinduism and Islam, helping to unite the spiritual practices of both. His understanding of the importance of love, proximity and transcendence inspired later Sufi thinkers and continues to shape Islam today.

Here’s some quotes by Ibn Arabi :

1. “We must accept the presence of God in everyone.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

2. “God created Adam out of Love, not out of need.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi 

3. “If you do not know your essence, then you do not know your Lord.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

4. “If you love truth, be a lover; and if you love Wisdom, be a seeker.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

5. “The God you do not know is preferable to you than the god you believe in comfortingly.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

6. “Whoever comes to know himself, knows his Lord.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

7. “He who knows himself, knows his Lord.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

8. “The entire universe is a divine Face; every thing in it is a sign.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

9. “He who has knowledge of himself knows all things.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

10. “Prayer is the most precious pearl of wisdom, and silence is its true form.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

11. “The worship of one God brings with it a knowledge of all created beings.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

12. “Rejoice in the knowledge of your own Self.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi 

13. “The more we discover within ourselves, the more we discover God.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

14. “In truth, God inspires in you the knowledge and wisdom that He has for you.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

15. “God’s mercy is so great that it forgives you not for a single moment, but for eternity.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

16. “The source of spirituality is the heart of man, not a book or a teacher.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

17. “Do not seek to understand in order to believe, but believe in order to understand.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

18. “No one knows the secrets of God’s relationship with man except God himself.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

19. “Love is the cause of existence and its end.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

20. “The human being is my witness that I am God and that God is me.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…

Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to work directly with me. I’m here to help! Send me a message to discuss your interests and questions.

~Sakshi Zion

Animal Rights, Christ, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gnostic, History, Mystical, Spiritual

Difference between the Nazoreans/Nazarenes and Nazirites/Nazarites

Leave a comment

The terms “Nazarites” and “Nazoreans” can be confusing because they sound similar but refer to different concepts and groups.

  1. Nazarites:
    • Nazarites were individuals in ancient Israel who took a vow to dedicate themselves to God for a specific period of time. This vow is described in Numbers 6:1-21 in the Hebrew Bible. Nazarites abstained from consuming alcohol and cutting their hair during the period of their vow.
    • Notable biblical figures who were Nazarites include Samson and Samuel.
    • The Nazarite vow was a personal commitment and was not associated with a specific religious sect or community.
  2. Nazoreans (or Nazarenes):
    • The term “Nazarene” is used in the New Testament to describe Jesus of Nazareth (e.g., Matthew 2:23) and his followers.
    • The Nazoreans were a Jewish Christian sect that emerged in the early Christian church. They were followers of Jesus who maintained Jewish practices and beliefs.
    • James, the brother of Jesus, is sometimes associated with the Nazoreans, as they were centered in Jerusalem and were known for their strict adherence to Jewish law and rejection of the Pauline form of Christianity.
    • The Nazoreans are often identified with the Ebionites, although the relationship between the two groups is complex and subject to scholarly debate.

In summary, the Nazarites were individuals who took a specific religious vow in ancient Israel, while the Nazoreans were a Jewish Christian sect that emerged in the early Christian church, with James and Jesus being associated with this group. The Nazoreans maintained Jewish practices and beliefs while following the teachings of Jesus, whereas the Nazarites were not associated with a specific religious sect and were defined by their personal religious vow.

Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…

Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to learn more about our premiere Home Business Academy here. I’m here to help! See You on the Inside! 

~Sakshi Zion

Or for something more personal connect with me on social media and send me a message!

Books, Christ, Gnostic, Mystical, Spiritual

James the brother of Jesus

Leave a comment

After the crucifixion of Jesus, James, who is traditionally identified as the brother of Jesus, became a prominent leader in the early Christian movement in Jerusalem.

James continued to participate in the Jewish Temple and observed Jewish laws and customs. He is described in the New Testament and other early Christian writings as being very devout and zealous for the Jewish law.

It’s important to note that the early followers of Jesus saw themselves as Jews who believed that Jesus was the Messiah. They continued to participate in Jewish religious practices while also following the teachings of Jesus. The complete separation between Christianity and Judaism took several centuries to develop.

Was the Jerusalem church of James different than the sacrificial cult of the Jewish Temple?

The Jerusalem church led by James and the sacrificial cult of the Jewish Temple were distinct in their practices and beliefs, although they shared some common roots.

The Jerusalem church, under the leadership of James, was a community of Jewish followers of Jesus who believed that he was the Messiah. They continued to observe Jewish laws and customs but also incorporated the teachings of Jesus into their faith. Their worship centered on Jesus as the risen Lord and the fulfillment of Jewish prophecies.

On the other hand, the sacrificial cult of the Jewish Temple was centered around the rituals and sacrifices prescribed by the Mosaic Law. This included animal sacrifices, offerings, and other ceremonies performed by the priests in the Temple.

While James and the Jerusalem church continued to participate in Jewish religious practices, they placed greater emphasis on the teachings of Jesus and the new covenant he established. The Temple cult, however, did not recognize Jesus as the Messiah and continued to operate under the traditional Jewish sacrificial system.

Over time, as the early Christian movement spread and developed its own distinct identity, the practices and beliefs of the Jerusalem church and the Jewish Temple became increasingly divergent.

Can it be said that the Jerusalem Church of James was against the animal sacrifices of the Jewish Temple?

The New Testament and early Christian writings do not explicitly state that the Jerusalem church, led by James, show there are indications that the early Jewish followers of Jesus, including James and the Jerusalem church, placed greater emphasis on the teachings of Jesus and the new covenant he established, which they believed fulfilled and superseded the old covenant.

Some scholars argue that as the early Christian movement developed, there was a shift away from the emphasis on Temple sacrifices. The Book of Hebrews in the New Testament, for example, presents Jesus as the ultimate high priest and his sacrifice on the cross as the final and perfect sacrifice, making the Temple sacrifices obsolete.

James and the Jerusalem church continued to participate in Jewish religious practices, including Temple worship, while also incorporating the teachings of Jesus. It’s possible that they viewed the Temple sacrifices in a new light in light of their belief in Jesus as the Messiah and his sacrificial death.

James and the Ebionites

James is often associated with the Ebionites, a Jewish Christian sect that rejected the divinity of Jesus and adhered to Jewish law, including the rejection of the sacrificial system of the Temple.

The Ebionites believed that Jesus was the Messiah but considered him to be a human prophet rather than divine. They maintained strict adherence to the Mosaic Law and rejected the Apostle Paul’s teachings, emphasizing instead the importance of Jewish practices and the teachings of Jesus.

Given this context, it is plausible to say that the Ebionites, including those led by James, were against the animal sacrifices of the Jewish Temple. They likely viewed these sacrifices as no longer necessary or valid in light of their understanding of Jesus’ teachings and his role as the Messiah.

For further reading and research on this topic read the book “James the Brother of Jesus” by Professor Robert Eisenman.

Here’s some reviews of the book :

ABOUT JAMES THE BROTHER OF JESUS

“A passionate quest for the historical James refigures Christian origins, … can be enjoyed as a thrilling essay in historical detection.” —The Guardian

James was a vegetarian, wore only linen clothing, bathed daily at dawn in cold water, and was a life-long Nazirite. In this profound and provocative work of scholarly detection, eminent biblical scholar Robert Eisenman introduces a startling theory about the identity of James—the brother of Jesus, who was almost entirely marginalized in the New Testament.Drawing on long-overlooked early Church texts and the Dead Sea Scrolls, Eisenman reveals in this groundbreaking exploration that James, not Peter, was the real successor to the movement we now call “Christianity.” In an argument with enormous implications, Eisenman identifies Paul as deeply compromised by Roman contacts. James is presented as not simply the leader of Christianity of his day, but the popular Jewish leader of his time, whose death triggered the Uprising against Rome—a fact that creative rewriting of early Church documents has obscured.
Eisenman reveals that characters such as “Judas Iscariot” and “the Apostle James” did not exist as such. In delineating the deliberate falsifications in New Testament dcouments, Eisenman shows how—as James was written out—anti-Semitism was written in. By rescuing James from the oblivion into which he was cast, the final conclusion of James the Brother of Jesus is, in the words of The Jerusalem Post, “apocalyptic” —who and whatever James was, so was Jesus.

Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…

Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to learn more about our premiere Home Business Academy here. I’m here to help! See You on the Inside! 

~Sakshi Zion

Or for something more personal connect with me on social media and send me a message!

Art, Christ, Gnostic, Mary Magdalene, Mystical, Spiritual, Stories

Gnostic perspective of Lady of Guadalupe

Leave a comment

In the early 16th century, in what is now modern-day Mexico City, a native man named Juan Diego had a profound encounter with the Divine Feminine. Juan Diego was walking on Tepeyac Hill when he encountered a beautiful and radiant woman who appeared to him as an embodiment of the Divine Mother.

The divine feminine figure revealed herself as the Mother of All Creation and instructed Juan Diego to build a sanctuary in her honor on the hill. This sanctuary was to be a place of spiritual pilgrimage and enlightenment, where seekers could connect with the inner divine wisdom within themselves.

Juan Diego relayed the message to the local bishop, who was initially skeptical. However, when Juan Diego returned to the hill, the divine feminine figure provided him with miraculous proof of her appearance in the form of roses, which bloomed out of season, and her image imprinted on his cloak, known as a tilma.

From a Gnostic perspective, the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe can be seen as a profound spiritual revelation, emphasizing the importance of inner knowledge, enlightenment, and the connection between the divine and the human soul. The image of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Juan Diego’s tilma serves as a symbol of the divine spark within each individual, encouraging seekers to awaken to their inner divine wisdom and connect with the universal truth of the Gnostic tradition.

The site of the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Tepeyac Hill, was significant to the indigenous people of Mexico long before the arrival of Christianity. Tepeyac Hill was a sacred site dedicated to the Aztec mother goddess Tonantzin, meaning “Our Mother” in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs.

Tonantzin was a revered goddess associated with fertility, motherhood, and the earth. The indigenous people would make pilgrimages to Tepeyac Hill to honor and worship Tonantzin at a temple dedicated to her on the hill. The site was a center of spiritual significance and a place where the indigenous people would seek guidance, blessings, and healing from the divine feminine.

When the divine feminine figure appeared to Juan Diego in the early 16th century, she identified herself as the Mother of All Creation and instructed him to build a sanctuary in her honor on Tepeyac Hill. This was a profound moment of spiritual syncretism, blending the indigenous reverence for Tonantzin with the Christian devotion to the Virgin Mary.

From a Gnostic perspective, the sacredness of Tepeyac Hill as a pre-Christian goddess site adds another layer of spiritual depth to the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe. It emphasizes the universal nature of the divine feminine principle and the continuity of spiritual traditions across different cultures and beliefs. The apparition can be seen as a continuation of the ancient wisdom and connection to the divine that has been revered by indigenous people for centuries.

Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…

Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to learn more about our premiere Home Business Academy here. I’m here to help! See You on the Inside! 

~Sakshi Zion

Animal Rights, Animals, Christ, Gnostic, History, Inspiration, Mystical, Natural Healing, Plant Medicine, Spiritual, Vegan, Vegetarian

Vegetarian Lifestyle of the Nazoreans

Leave a comment

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.

Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this “Gnostic Secrets” and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired wizards & seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…

Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to learn more about our premiere Home Business Academy here. I’m here to help! See You on the Inside! 

~Sakshi Zion

Art, Christ, Egypt, Gnostic, Magick, Mary Magdalene, Mystical, Spiritual, The Secret

The Secret Lineage of Mary Magdalene – Poem

Leave a comment

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.

Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Gnostic Wisdom and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…

Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to learn more about our premiere Home Business Academy here. I’m here to help! See You on the Inside! 

~Sakshi Zion

Art, Christ, Gnostic, History, Inspiration, Mystical, Poetry, Spiritual, The Secret

The Gnostic Christ

Leave a comment

In the realm of sacred knowing, the Gnostic Christ does dwell,
A timeless presence, a divine spark, a truth no tongue can tell.
Beyond the bounds of mortal flesh, transcendent and profound,
In mystic whispers, hidden truths, eternal wisdom found.

His eyes ablaze with cosmic fire, a love that knows no end,
He guides us through the labyrinth, our souls to mend and mend.
A teacher of the inner path, he leads us to the light,
Through trials and tribulations, he holds us through the night.

The Gnostic Christ, a mystic sage, his essence ever near,
In sacred texts and secret lore, his message we revere.
He unveils the illusion’s veil, the mysteries to explore,
A guide to seek the hidden truths, the treasures to restore.

With gnosis as our lantern, we journey through the soul,
A quest for deeper understanding, to make our spirits whole.
In union with the divine spark, the Christ within us gleams,
The Gnostic path of love and light, forever in our dreams.

Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this “Gnostic Secrets” and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired wizards & seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…

Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to learn more about our premiere Home Business Academy here. I’m here to help! See You on the Inside! 

~Sakshi Zion

Art, Christ, Gnostic, History, Spiritual, Stories

Dionysus & Jesus : Parallels

1 Comment

Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, revelry, and ecstasy, may seem like an unlikely precursor to the worship of Jesus Christ, the central figure in Christianity. However, upon closer examination, one can identify intriguing parallels and symbolic connections between the two. While the two belief systems are distinct and separate, exploring the religious practices and mythologies surrounding Dionysus can provide insights into the evolution of religious thought and the human quest for spiritual fulfillment.

One significant parallel between Dionysus worship and the worship of Jesus Christ lies in their association with wine. Dionysus is often depicted as the god who brings joy and liberation through the consumption of wine. In Greek mythology, his followers would engage in wild, ecstatic rituals known as Bacchanalia, characterized by intoxication and uninhibited revelry. Similarly, in the Christian tradition, Jesus is famously depicted turning water into wine during the wedding at Cana, symbolizing abundance, celebration, and the transformative power of faith. Wine, in both contexts, becomes a symbol of communion and connection with the divine.

Furthermore, both Dionysus and Jesus are associated with the concept of rebirth and resurrection. In the Greek myth, Dionysus is torn apart by the Titans and then brought back to life, representing the cyclical nature of life, death, and regeneration. This notion of resurrection carries significant weight in Christian theology, as Jesus’ crucifixion and subsequent resurrection form the cornerstone of the faith. Through his resurrection, Jesus offers believers the promise of eternal life and the hope of spiritual transformation, mirroring the transformative power of Dionysian rituals.

Moreover, Dionysus and Jesus both challenge social norms and hierarchies. Dionysus, as the god of liberation, often challenged the established order and encouraged his followers to transcend societal constraints. Similarly, Jesus challenged the religious and political authorities of his time, advocating for love, compassion, and equality. Both figures sought to disrupt prevailing power structures, offering alternative paths to spiritual enlightenment and freedom.

It is important to note that these parallels do not imply a direct lineage or influence between Dionysus worship and the worship of Jesus Christ. Rather, they serve as points of comparison that shed light on the universal human yearning for transcendence, liberation, and spiritual renewal.

In conclusion, while Dionysus worship and the worship of Jesus Christ are distinct religious traditions, they share intriguing similarities that highlight fundamental aspects of human spirituality. Both figures are associated with wine, rebirth, and challenging societal norms, albeit within different cultural and theological frameworks. Exploring these connections enriches our understanding of religious development and underscores the enduring quest for meaning and divine connection throughout human history.

Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this “Gnostic Wisdom” and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired wizards & seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…

Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to learn more about our premiere Home Business Academy here. I’m here to help! See You on the Inside! 

~Sakshi Zion

Animals, Art, Christ, Egypt, Gnostic, History, Magick, Mystical, Spiritual, Stories

Gnostic Lion Symbolism

Leave a comment

The symbolism of the lion in Gnostic tradition carries significant meaning and can be traced back to ancient times. The Gnostics were a diverse group of religious and philosophical movements that emerged in the Hellenistic period and flourished during the first few centuries CE. They sought spiritual enlightenment and believed in the existence of a hidden, divine knowledge (gnosis) that could liberate individuals from the constraints of the material world.

In Gnosticism, the lion symbolizes various concepts and archetypal forces. Here is a historical overview of the symbolism of the lion in Gnostic tradition:

  1. Solar Symbolism: The lion is often associated with solar symbolism, representing the power and radiance of the sun. In many ancient cultures, including Egyptian and Persian, the lion was considered a solar creature, associated with the sun god. The Gnostics adopted this solar symbolism and viewed the lion as a symbol of the divine light and enlightenment.
  2. Regal Authority: The lion is renowned for its strength, courage, and dominance, making it a symbol of regal authority. In Gnosticism, the lion represents the power and sovereignty of the divine. It signifies the spiritual king or ruler, often identified with the supreme deity or the divine spark within each individual. The lion’s regal qualities embody the divine authority that Gnostics sought to reconnect with.
  3. Christological Symbolism: The Gnostics incorporated Christian themes and concepts into their belief system. In this context, the lion became a symbol of Christ, the “Lion of Judah.” Just as the lion is the king of the animal kingdom, Christ is seen as the supreme ruler and the embodiment of divine authority. The Gnostic lion represents the Christ within, the divine spark that exists in every individual.
  4. Archontic Forces: In some Gnostic texts, the lion is also associated with archontic forces, which are considered to be oppressive, lower-dimensional entities that hinder spiritual progress. These archontic forces are often depicted as lion-like creatures or associated with the lion’s attributes. The Gnostic lion, in this sense, symbolizes the struggle against these negative forces, the overcoming of which leads to spiritual liberation.
  5. Alchemical Transformation: Gnosticism incorporates elements of alchemical symbolism, and the lion is linked to the alchemical process of transformation. The lion represents the prima materia, the raw material that undergoes the alchemical process to attain spiritual enlightenment. This process involves purifying and refining the lion’s qualities, such as strength and dominance, into higher spiritual virtues.
  6. Dualistic Nature: Gnosticism often presents a dualistic worldview, emphasizing the conflict between the spiritual and the material realms. The lion symbolizes this dualistic nature, representing both the divine and the earthly. It embodies the struggle to transcend the limitations of the material world and to reconnect with the divine essence.

Throughout Gnostic tradition, the symbolism of the lion carries multiple layers of meaning, encompassing solar symbolism, regal authority, Christological significance, archontic forces, alchemical transformation, and dualistic nature. The lion serves as a powerful emblem that encapsulates the Gnostic quest for divine knowledge, spiritual liberation, and the reconciliation of the divine and material realms.

Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this “Gnostic Wisdom” and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired wizards & seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…

Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to learn more about our premiere Home Business Academy here. I’m here to help! See You on the Inside! 

~Sakshi Zion

Art, Christ, Gnostic, Mystical, Spiritual, The Secret

Gospel of Thomas Verse 108

Leave a comment

Verse 108 of the Gospel of Thomas is a concise and thought-provoking saying attributed to Jesus. It reads as follows:

“Jesus said, ‘Whoever drinks from my mouth will become like me; I myself shall become that person, and the hidden things will be revealed to him.'”

This verse encapsulates the essence of the Gospel of Thomas, a non-canonical text believed to contain the hidden sayings and teachings of Jesus. The saying carries a profound spiritual message and invites the reader to explore the nature of personal transformation and the search for divine wisdom.

The opening statement, “Whoever drinks from my mouth will become like me,” suggests a profound connection between Jesus and his followers. It speaks to the idea of intimate communion, where the act of “drinking” implies a deep absorption and assimilation of Jesus’ teachings and wisdom. This metaphorical drinking suggests a spiritual nourishment, an invitation to imbibe the essence of Jesus’ message and to internalize it in one’s own life. By doing so, the followers are encouraged to become more like Jesus in their thoughts, words, and actions.

The subsequent statement, “I myself shall become that person,” is both enigmatic and transformative. It suggests that through the process of assimilating Jesus’ teachings, the boundaries between the individual and Jesus begin to blur. This notion of identification with Jesus speaks to the concept of spiritual unity and the potential for a profound spiritual transformation. It implies that as one internalizes the teachings of Jesus and embodies his message, there is a merging of identities where the follower becomes an extension of Jesus’ presence in the world.

The final part of the saying, “and the hidden things will be revealed to him,” highlights the transformative power of this process. As one becomes like Jesus and adopts his teachings, a deeper understanding and perception of the hidden or mysterious aspects of life and spirituality are unveiled. It suggests that by aligning oneself with Jesus’ teachings, one gains access to hidden truths and insights that are not readily apparent to others. This revelation of hidden things may refer to deeper spiritual understanding, a heightened awareness of divine truths, or a profound realization of the interconnectedness of all things.

Overall, verse 108 of the Gospel of Thomas is a profound statement that calls for a transformative engagement with the teachings of Jesus. It emphasizes the potential for individuals to become one with Jesus and to access hidden truths through a deep and intimate connection. It invites us to reflect on the transformative power of embracing Jesus’ message, internalizing it in our lives, and uncovering deeper spiritual insights that can guide us on our path towards truth and enlightenment.

Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this “Gnostic Secrets” and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired wizards & seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…

Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to learn more about our premiere Home Business Academy here. I’m here to help! See You on the Inside! 

~Sakshi Zion