Let's Talk Religion

The great Sufi mystic Ibn Arabi was taught by a woman. In Part 2 of our series on Sufi women in history, we explore the female saints, teachers, and muses who shaped the thought of Islam's greatest mystical philosopher.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Addas, Claude (1993). "Quest for the Red Sulphur". The Islamic Texts Society.

Austin, R.W.J. (translated by) (1988). "The Sufis of Andalusia: The Ruh Al-Quds' and 'Al-Durrat al-Fakhirah'". Beshara Publications.

Chittick, William (1989). "The Sufi Path of Knowledge: Ibn 'Arabi's Metaphysics of Imagination".

Chodkiewicz, Michel (1993). "Seal of the Saints: Prophethood and sainthood in the doctrine of Ibn 'Arabi". Translated by Liadain Sherrard. The Islamic Texts Society.

Caner Dagli (translated by) (2004). Ibn 'Arabi - "The Ringstones of Wisdom (Fusus al-Hikam)". Great Books of the Islamic World. Kazi Pubns Inc.

Shaikh, Sa'diyya (2012). "Sufi Narratives of Intimacy: Ibn Arabi, Gender & Sexuality". The University of North Carolina Press.

Ibn 'Arabi - "The Openings Revealed in Makkah: al-futuhat al-makkiyya". Translated by Eric Winkel. Volumes 1-7. Pir Press.

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John Scotus Eriugena was one of the most radical thinkers of the early Middle Ages — a philosopher who fused eastern and western Christian theology with Neoplatonism to create a vision of God, nature, and creation centuries that is breathtaking and unique. In this episode, we explore his masterwork Periphyseon (On the Division of Nature), his controversial ideas on negative theology, and why the Church eventually condemned his work as heretical.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Carabine, Deirdre (2000). "John Scottus Eriugena". Oxford University Press USA.

Laird, Martin (2004). "Gregory of Nyssa and the grasp of faith: union, knowledge and divine presence". Oxford University Press.

Luibheid, Colm (Translated by) (1987). "Pseudo-Dionysius: The Complete Works". Classics of Western Spirituality. Paulist Press International.

McGinn, Bernard. "The Presence of God" Series, in several volumes. Perhaps the best and most comprehensive introduction to Christian mysticism. Published by Crossroad Publishing Co.

Sheldon-Williams, I.P. & John J. O'Meara (translated and edited by) (2025). "Periphyseon: The Division of Nature". Dumbarton Oaks Research Library & Collection. (This is the translation used for the Periphyseon except when noted).

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In this episode, Zevi and I explore what the Talmud is, what it is not, and the role it plays in the Jewish religion.

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In this episode we explore one of the most fascinating texts in the history of Western esotericism: Porphyry's Commentary on the Cave of the Nymphs. Written in the 3rd century, this short but remarkable work interprets a mysterious passage from Homer's Odyssey as a profound allegory for the soul's descent into matter and its eventual return to the divine. We explore how Porphyry reads the cave, its nymphs, its looms and its two gates as a complete symbolic map of the cosmos, drawing on Platonic metaphysics, ancient astrology, and even the Cult of Mithras.

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Translations of the commentary:

Lamberton, Robert (translated by) (1983). "Porphyry: On the Cave of the Nymphs". Station Hill Press.

Thomas Taylor's translation (from the 1800's) is a classic. It is available through Lamp of Trismegistus.

John M. Duffy, Philip F. Sheridan, Leendert G. Westerink, and Jeffrey A. White (ed.) (1969). "Porphyry: The Cave of the Nymphs in the Odyssey". State University of New York.

Secondary sources:

Akçay, Nilüfer (2019). "Porphyrys On the Cave of the Nymphs in its Intellectual Context". Brill.

Beck, Roger (2006). "The Religion of the Mithras Cult in the Roman Empire: Mysteries of the Unconquered Sun". OUP Oxford.

Cooper, John M. (ed.) (1997). "Plato: Complete Works". Hackett Publishing Company.

Dillon, John (1996). "The Middle Platonists". Bristol Classical Press.

Gerson, Loyd P. (ed.) (2019). "Plotinus: The Enneads". Cambridge University Press. (This is the translation of the Enneads I have been using in this episode).

Gerson, Loyd P (2008). "Cambridge Companion to Plotinus". Cambridge University Press.

Gregory, John (ed.) (1998). "The Neoplatonists: a reader". Routledge.

Iamblichus "On the Mysteries". Tranlsated by Emma C. Clarke, John M. Dillon & Jackson P. Hershell. Writings from the Graeco-Roman World. Society of Biblical Literature.

Proclus "The Elements of Theology: A Revised Text with Translation, Introduction, and Commentary". Translated by E.R. Dodds. Second Edition. Oxford University Press.

O'Meara, Dominic J. (1999). "Plotinus: An Introduction to the Enneads". Oxford University Press.

Shaw, Gregory (2014). "Theurgy and the Soul: The Neoplatonism of Iamblichus". Angelico Press/Sophia Perennis.

Wallis, R.T. (1998). "Neoplatonism". Second Edition. Bristol Classical Paperbacks. Hackett Publishing Company.

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The Hare Krishna movement didn't start with chanting monks in airports, it began over 500 years ago with a Bengali mystic named Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. This video traces the full history of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, from its roots in 16th-century devotional Hinduism to its transformation into the global ISKCON movement, brought to the West by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in 1965. We cover the theology of Krishna Consciousness, the bhakti tradition, and how an obscure regional sect became one of the most visible spiritual movements in modern history.

Written by Anmol Kohli

Co-written by Filip Holm

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Swami Tapasyananda, Bhakti Schools of Vedanta (Sri Ramakrishna Math Chennai,

1990).

o Chapter on ‘Sri Caitanya Mahāprabhu: Life’, pages 323-407.

o Chapter on ‘Sri Caitanya Mahāprabhu: Philosophy’, pages 408-451.

Bryant, Edwin (2004). "The Hare Krishna Movement: The Postcharismatic Fate of a Religious Transplant". Columbia University Press.

Bryant, Edwin (translated by) (2017). "Bhakti Yoga: Tales and Teachings from the Bhagavata Purana". North Point Press.

Bryant, Edwin. Bhakti Yoga: Tales and Teachings from the Bhagavata Purana (Pan Macmillan India, 2018).

Dwyer, Graham & Richard J. Cole (ed.) (2007). "The Hare Krishna Movement: Forty Years of Chant and Change". I.B. Tauris.

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Who was Rabi'a al-Adawiyya? Explore the life, teachings, and spiritual legacy of one of history’s most influential mystics. From divine love to radical devotion, this video examines how Rabi'a transformed Islamic spirituality and continues to inspire people centuries later.

Sources/Recommended Reading:

Cornell, Rkia Elaroui (translated by) (1999). "Early Sufi Women: Dhikr an-niswa al-muta 'abbidat as sufiyyat". Fons Vitae.

Cornell, Rkia Elaroui (2019). "Rabi'a From Narrative to Myth: The Many Faces of Islam's Most Famous Woman Saint, Rabi'a al-'Adawiyya". Oneworld Academic.

Helminski, Camille Adams (2003). "Women of Sufism: A Hidden Treasure". Shambhala.

Knysh, Alexander (2000). "Islamic Mysticism: A Short History". Brill.

Safi, Omid (2019). "Radical Love: Teachings from the Islamic Mystical Tradition". Yale University Press.

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Explore the fascinating world of religion in Ancient Greece, from the powerful Olympian gods like Zeus, Athena, and Apollo to sacred rituals, temples, myths, and festivals that shaped daily Greek life.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Bowden, Hugh (2010). "Mystery cults in the Ancient World". Thames and Hudson Ltd.

Burkert, William (1987). "Greek Religion: Archaic and Classical". Wiley-Blackwell.

Burkert, Walter (1988). "Ancient Mystery Cults". Harvard University Press.

Chulp, Radek (2016). "Proclus: An Introduction". Cambridge University Press.

Cooper, John M. et. al (translated by) (1997). "Plato: Complete Works". Hackett Publishing.

Dodds, E.R. (2004). "The Greeks & The Irrational". University of California Press.

Eidinow, Esther & Julia Kindt (ed.) (2017). "The Oxford Handbook of Ancient Greek Religion". Oxford University Press.

Gerson, Loyd P. (ed.) (2019). "Plotinus: The Enneads". Cambridge University Press. (This is the translation of the Enneads I have been using in this episode).

Gerson, Loyd P (2008). "Cambridge Companion to Plotinus". Cambridge University Press.

Gregory, John (ed.) (1998). "The Neoplatonists: a reader". Routledge.

Huffman, Carl A. (ed.) (2017). "A History of Pythagoreanism". Cambridge University Press.

Iamblichus "On the Mysteries". Tranlsated by Emma C. Clarke, John M. Dillon & Jackson P. Hershell. Writings from the Graeco-Roman World. Society of Biblical Literature.

Inwood, Brad (ed.) (2003). "The Cambridge Companion to the Stoics". Cambridge University Press.

Kirk, G.S., J.E. Raven & M. Schofield (1983). "The Presocratic Philosophers". Second Edition. Cambridge University Press.

Parker, Robert C.T. (2011). "On Greek Religion". Cornell University Press.

Proclus "The Elements of Theology: A Revised Text with Translation, Introduction, and Commentary". Translated by E.R. Dodds. Second Edition. Oxford University Press.

Shaw, Gregory (2014). "Theurgy and the Soul: The Neoplatonism of Iamblichus". Angelico Press/Sophia Perennis.

Ustinova, Yulia (2017). "Divine Mania: Alterations of Consciousness in Ancient Greece". Routledge.

Wallis, R.T. (1998). "Neoplatonism". Second Edition. Bristol Classical Paperbacks. Hackett Publishing Company.

Zhmud, Leonid (2012). "Pythagoras and the Early Pythagoreans". Translated by Kevin Windle & Rosh Ireland. OUP Oxford.

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Did the Quran once contain additional suras that are no longer part of the standard text? In this video, we explore reports about the codex of Ubayy ibn Ka'b and examine claims about “lost” or excluded suras during the Uthmanic recension.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Amir-Moezzi, Mohammad Ali. 2022. The Shi’is and the Qur’an: Between Apocalypse, Civil Wars, and Empire. Religions 13: 1.

Anthony, Sean W. (2019). "TWO ‘LOST’ SŪRAS OF THE QURʾĀN: SŪRAT AL-KHALʿ AND SŪRAT AL-ḤAFD BETWEEN TEXTUAL AND RITUAL CANON (1st-3rd/7th-9th CENTURIES)". JSAI 46 (2019).

Harvey, R., & College, E. (2017). "The Legal Epistemology of Qur'anic Variants: The Readings of Ibn Masʿūd in Kufan fiqh and the Ḥanafī madhhab".

Karimi-Nia, Morteza. (2019). A New Document in the Early History of the Qurʾān. Journal of Islamic Manuscripts. 10. 292-326. 10.1163/1878464X-01003002.

Sadeghi, Behnam & Bergmann, Uwe. (2010). The Codex of a Companion of the Prophet and the Qurān of the Prophet. Arabica. 57. 343-436. 10.1163/157005810X504518.

Sinai, Nicolai (2017). "The Qur'an: A Historical-Critical Introduction". Edinburgh University Press.

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Who was Mazdak, and did he really preach a form of “ancient communism”? In this video, we explore Mazdakism—a radical movement in Sasanian Persia that challenged wealth, power, and social inequality over 1,500 years ago.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Boyce, Mary (2000). "Zoroastrians: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices". Routledge; 2nd edition.

Crone, Patricia (2012). “The Nativist Prophets of Early Islamic Iran: Rural Revolt and Local Zoroastrianism”. Cambridge University Press.

Moazami, Mahnaz (ed.) (2016). "Zoroastrianism: A collection of Articles from the Encyclopedia Iranica". ENCYCLOPAEDIA IRANICA FOUNDATION. 2 Volumes.

Rose, Jenny (2019). "Zoroastrianism: An Introduction". I.B. Tauris Introduction to Religions. Bloomsbury Academic.

Yarshater, Ehsan (1983). “Mazdakism”. In “The Cambridge History of Iran”, vol. 3. Cambridge University Press.

https://www.iranicaonline.org/articles/mazdak-crossref/

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Was the legendary “Atlantis of the Sands” real? In this video, we explore the mystery of Iram of the Pillars, the lost city often linked to the ancient people of ʿĀd mentioned in the Qurʾān. We explore whether it was originally a city or the name of a people, and all the legends surrouding it until this very day.

Music by Filip Holm

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Al-Jallad, A.الجلادأ. (2025). The Epigraphy of the Tribe of ʿĀd [النقوش القديمة التي تذكر عاد]. Athīrat: Journal of Ancient Arabia, 1(1-2), 281-289. https://doi.org/10.1163/30504880-12340015

Clapp, Nicholas (1999). “The Road to Ubar: Finding the Atlantis of the Sands”. Houghton Mifflin Company.

Elmaz, Orhan (2018). “A Paradise in the Desert: Iram at the Intersection of One Thousand and One Nights, Quranic Exegesis, and Arabian History”. In “To the Madbar and Back Again: Studies in the Languages, Archaeology, and Cultures of Arabia, Dedicated to Michael C.A. Macdonald”. Edited by Laïla Nehmé &

Ahmad Al-Jallad. Brill.

Thomas, Bertram (1932). “Arabia Felix: Across the Empty Quarter of Arabia”. Jonathan Cape.

Thomas, Bertram (1933). “Ubar—the Atlantis of the sands of Rub’ Al Khali”. Journal of The Royal Central Asian Society, 20(2), 259–265. https://doi.org/10.1080/03068379308725252

Webb, P. A. (2019). Iram. In K. Fleet, G. Krämer, D. Matringe, J. Nawas, & E.

Rowson (Eds.), Encyclopaedia of Islam 3 (pp. 117-121). Brill.

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How did Abd al-Malik shape the development of Islam? This video explores the reign of the Umayyad caliph Abd al-Malik, including his reforms, the construction of the Dome of the Rock, and his role in shaping early Islamic identity. Was he the most important caliph in Islamic history?

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Donner, Fred (2012). "Muhammad and the Believers: At the Origins of Islam". Harvard University Press.

Dov Goitein, Shelomo (1950). "The Historical Background of the Erection of the Dome of the Rock". In Journal of the American Oriental Society , Apr. - Jun., 1950, Vol. 70, No. 2, pp. 104-108.

Elad, Amikam (2008). "֒ABD AL-MALIK AND THE DOME OF THE ROCK: A FURTHER EXAMINATION OF THEMUSLIM SOURCES". In JERUSALEM STUDIES IN ARABIC AND ISLAM 35 (2008).

Marsham, Andrew (2023). "The Umayyad Empire". Edinburgh University Press.

Robinson, Chase F. (2012). "'Abd al-Malik". Makers of the Muslim World. Oneworld Academic.

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Was the great Sufi thinker Ibn 'Arabi actually a kind of idealist philosopher? In this video we explore the metaphysics of the Akbari tradition and the famous doctrine of Wahdat al-Wujud (Oneness of Being).

I examine Ibn ‘Arabi’s view that God (al-Haqq) is the only true Reality, while the universe is a divine self-disclosure within Being. Along the way we look at concepts like wujūd (Being), imagination (khayāl), the immutable entities (a‘yān thābita), and the idea that the world is a reflection of the divine attributes.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Abdel-Hadi, Faris (2025). "Ibn 'Arabi's Religious Pluralism: Levels of Inclusivity". Routledge.

Addas, Claude (1993). "Quest for the Red Sulphur". The Islamic Texts Society.

Austin, R.W.J. (translated by) (1980). "The Bezels of Wisdom". Classics of Western Spirituality Series. Paulist Press.

Chittick, William (1989). "The Sufi Path of Knowledge: Ibn 'Arabi's Metaphysics of Imagination".

Chittick, William (1998). "The Self-Disclosure of God: Principles of Ibn al-'Arabi's Cosmology". State University of New York Press.

Chittick, William (2005). "Ibn Arabi: Heir to the Prophets". OneWorld Publications.

Chodkiewicz, Michel (1993). "Seal of the Saints: Prophethood and sainthood in the doctrine of Ibn 'Arabi". Translated by Liadain Sherrard. The Islamic Texts Society.

Caner Dagli (translated by) (2004). Ibn 'Arabi - "The Ringstones of Wisdom (Fusus al-Hikam)". Great Books of the Islamic World. Kazi Pubns Inc.

Dyczkowski, Mark S.G. (1987). "The Doctrine of Vibration: An Analysis of the Doctrines and Practices of Kashmir Shaivism". SUNY Press.

https://hareesh.org/blogpage

Ibn Arabi - "The Universal Tree and the Four Birds (al-ittihad al-kawni). Translated by Angela Jaffray. Oxford: Anqa Publishing.

Ibn 'Arabi - "The Openings Revealed in Makkah: al-futuhat al-makkiyya". Translated by Eric Winkel. Volumes 1-7. Pir Press.

Kastrup, Bernardo (2019). "Idea of the World, The: A multi-disciplinary argument for the mental nature of reality". Iff Books.

Kastrup, Bernardo (2024). "Analytic Idealism in a Nutshell: A straightforward summary of the 21st century’s only plausible metaphysics". Iff Books.

Muller-Ortega, Paul (1988). "The Triadic Heart of Siva: Kaula Tantricism of Abhinavagupta in the Non-Dual Shaivism of Kashmir". SUNY Press.

Rory Dickson, William (2024). "Dissolving into Being: The Wisdom of Sufi Philosophy". Anqa Publishing.

Singh, Jaideva (Translated by) (1990). "The Doctrine of Recognition: A Translation of the Pratyabhijnahrdayam with an Introduction and Notes, by Ksemaraja". SUNY Press.

Torella, Raffaele & Bettina Bäumer (2016). "Utpaladeva: Philosopher of Recognition". D.K. Printworld.

Torella, Rafaele (Translated by) (2013). "The Isvarapratyabhijnakarika of Utpaladeva: Critical edition and annoted translation". Motilal Banarsidass Publishers.

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Find Omid here:

Instagram: brotheromid

And Illuminated Tours/Courses:

https://www.illuminatedcourses.com

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What is the “School of Love” in Sufism? In this video, we explore Madhhab-e Ishq — the Sufi path centered on divine love (ishq) as the highest way to know God. From the poetry of Rumi to the teachings of Ahmad Ghazali, discover how love became a spiritual methodology, a theology, and a transformative path within Islamic mysticism.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Caner Dagli (translated by) (2004). Ibn 'Arabi - "The Ringstones of Wisdom (Fusus al-Hikam)". Great Books of the Islamic World. Kazi Pubns Inc.

Chittick, William & Peter Lamborn Wilson (translated by) (1982) "Fakhruddin Iraqi: Divine Flashes". Classics of Western Spirituality Series. Paulist Press.

Ernst, Carl W. & Bruce B. Lawrence (2003). "Sufi Martyrs of Love: The Chishti Order in South Asia and beyond". Palgrave Macmillan.

Ernst, Carl W (translated by) (2018). "Hallaj: Poems of a Sufi Martyr". Northwestern University Press.

Inayat Khan, Pir Zia (ed.) (2001). "A Pearl in Wine: Essays on the Life, Music & Sufism of Hazrat Inayat Khan". Omega Publications.

Knysh, Alexander (2000). "Islamic Mysticism: A Short History". Brill.

Lewis, Franklin D. (2000). "Rumi: Past and Present, East and West". Oneworld publications.

Lumbard, Joseph E.B. (2016). "Ahmad al-Ghazālī, Remembrance, and the Metaphysics of Love". SUNY Press.

Pourjavady, Nasrollah (translated by) (2015). "Sawanih: Inspirations from the World of Pure Spirits". Routledge.

Rustom, Muhammed (translated and edited by) (2022). "The Essence of Reality: A Defense of Philosophical Sufism". New York University Press.

Rustom, Muhammed (2024). "Inrushes of the Heart: The Sufi Philosophy of Ayn al-Qudat". State University of New York Press.

Safi, Omid (2019). "Radical Love: Teachings from the Islamic Mystical Tradition". Yale University Press.

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Zurvanism is a lesser-known feature of ancient Zoroastrianism that centers on Zurvan, the god of infinite time, and the cosmic struggle between Ahura Mazda and Angra Mainyu. In this video, we explore the origins, beliefs, and historical influence of Zurvanism, what it is and isn't, and why it matters for understanding ancient Persian religion and dualism.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Boyce, Mary (1957). "Some Reflections on Zurvanism". Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London , 1957, Vol. 19, No. 2 (1957), pp. 304-316. Cambridge University Press.

Boyce, Mary (2000). "Zoroastrians: Their Their Religious Beliefs and Practices". Routledge; 2nd edition.

Boyce, Mary (1996). "On the Orthodoxy of Sasanian Zoroastrianism". Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, 1996, Vol. 59, No. 1 (1996), pp. 11-28. Cambridge University Press.

Boyce, Mary (1990). "Some Some Further Reflections on Zurvanism". Iranica Varia: Papers in Honor of Professor Ehsan Yarshater. Brill.

Dahlén, Ashk (transl.) (2023). "Zarathustra: Sånger". h:ström.

Humbach, Helmut & Pallan Ichaporia (transl.) (1994). "The Heritage of Zarathushtra: A New Translation of His Gathas. Universitatsverlag Winter.

Moazami, Mahnaz (ed.) (2016). "Zoroastrianism: A collection of Articles from the Encyclopedia Iranica". ENCYCLOPAEDIA IRANICA FOUNDATION. 2 Volumes.

Rose, Jenny (2019). "Zoroastrianism: An Introduction". I.B. Tauris Introduction to Religions. Bloomsbury Academic.

Strausberg, Michael; & Yuhan Sohrab-Dinshaw Vevaina (ed.) (2015). "The Wiley-Blackwell Companion to Zoroastrianism". Wiley-Blackwell.

Zaehner, R.C. (1955). "Zurvan: A Zoroastrian Dilemma". Oxford.

https://www.iranicaonline.org/articles/zurvanism/

https://www.iranicaonline.org/articles/zurvan-deity/

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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often seen as a modern invention—but its core ideas were explored over 1,100 years ago by the 9th-century scholar Abu Zayd al-Balkhi.

In this video, we explore al-Balkhi’s groundbreaking writings on mental health, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and the connection between thoughts and behavior—ideas that closely resemble modern psychology and CBT.

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Nicholas of Cusa was a 15th-century philosopher, theologian, and mathematician whose ideas anticipated modern science and philosophy. In this video, we explore his life, key works, and radical concept of “learned ignorance,” as well as his views on infinity, knowledge and religious diversity. Discover why this forgotten medieval thinker still matters today.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Bond. H. Lawrence (edited and translated by) (1997). "Nicholas of Cusa: Selected Spiritual Writings". Classics of Western Spirituality Series. Paulist Press.

Hopkins, Jasper (translated by) (1986). "NICHOLAS OF CUSA’S DE PACE

FIDEI AND CRIBRATIO ALKORANI". Second edition. THE ARTHUR J. BANNING PRESS MINNEAPOLIS.

McGinn, Bernard. "The Presence of God" Series, in several volumes. Perhaps the best and most comprehensive introduction to Christian mysticism. Published by Crossroad Publishing Co.

Valkenberg, Pim (2011). "Sifting the Qur’an: Two Forms of Interreligious Hermeneutics in Nicholas of Cusa". In "Interreligious Hermeneutics in Pluralistic Europe", Currents of Encounter Online, Volume: 40. Brill.

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In this video, I explain the meaning of taqiyya in Islamic tradition & where it comes from. We look at its historical context, what scholars actually say about it historically and today.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Hallaq, Wael (2004). "The Origins and Evolution of Islamic Law". Cambridge University Press.

Hallaq, Wael (2009). "Sharia: Theory, Practice, Transformations". Cambridge University Press.

Stewart, Devin (2013). "Dissimulation in Sunni Islam and Morisco Taqiyya*". AL-QANTARA, XXXIV 2, 2013, pp. 439-490.

https://islamqa.org/hanafi/askimam/81133/?utm

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What is Sharia law, really? In this video, we break down the meaning of Sharia, explain where it comes from, and discuss some of the most misunderstandings you’ve probably heard online.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Hallaq, Wael (2004). "The Origins and Evolution of Islamic Law". Cambridge University Press.

Hallaq, Wael (2009). "Sharia: Theory, Practice, Transformations". Cambridge University Press.

Kamali, Mohammad Hashim, 'Shariah: Meaning, Definition, History, and Sources', Shariah and the Halal Industry (New York, 2021; online edn, Oxford Academic, 19 Aug. 2021).

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The Qadiriyya is often called the most widespread Sufi order in the world — but how did one 12th-century mystic in Baghdad inspire a global movement that still thrives today?

This episode explores the life and legacy of Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani, the saint revered across the Muslim world as Ghaus al-A‘zam — “the greatest helper.”

From medieval Baghdad to North Africa, Turkey, South Asia, and beyond, we trace how his teachings spread across continents, shaping Islamic spirituality for nearly 900 years.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Abun-Nasr, Jamil M. (2007). "Muslim Communities of Grace: The Sufi Brotherhoods in Islamic Religious Life". C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd.

Knysh, Alexander (2012). "Islamic Mysticism: A Short History". BRILL.

Malik, Hamza (2018). "The Grey Falcon: The Life and Teaching of Shaykh 'Abd Al-Qadir Al-Jilani". BRILL.

Trimingham, John Spencer (1971). "Sufi Orders in Islam". Oxford University Press.

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Discover the fascinating history of alchemy — the ancient art that aimed to turn base metals into gold. From mystical experiments to the birth of modern chemistry, this video explores how alchemists shaped science, philosophy, and the human quest for knowledge.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Abt, Theodore (ed.) (2007). "Corpus Alchemicum Arabicum: Book of the Explanation of the Symbols Kitab Hall Ar-Rumuz". Psychological Commentary by Marie-Louise Von Franz. Living Human Heritage Publications.

Adamson, Peter (2021). "Al-Rāzī". Great Medieval Thinkers. OUP USA.

Corriente, Federico & Ed Emery (translated by) (2004). "Twenty-seven Muwashshashaat and One Zajal by Ibn al-'Arabi of Murcia (1165-1240)".

Dodge, Bayard (translated by) (1998). "The Fihrist: A 10th Century Ad Survey of Islamic Culture". Kazi Pubns Inc.

Grimes, Shannon (2018). "Becoming Gold: Zosimos of Panopolis and the Alchemical Arts in Roman Egypt". Rubedo Press.

Hirtenstein, Stephen (translated by) (2018). "The Alchemy of Human Happiness (Mystical Treatises of Muhyiddin Ibn 'Arabi)". Anqa Publishing.

Principe, Lawrence (2013). "The Secrets of Alchemy". University of Chicago Press.

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Long before modern horror imagined zombies or demons, ancient Arabic folklore spoke of the Ghoul (غول) — a terrifying shape-shifting creature haunting deserts, ruins, and graveyards. In this video, we uncover the true origins of the Ghoul: its roots in pre-Islamic Arabian mythology, its transformation through Islamic tradition, and its lasting influence on global horror culture.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Al-Rawi, Ahmed (2009). "The Mythical Ghoul in Arabic Culture". Article. The University of California.

Al-Rawi, Ahmed (2009). "The Arabic Ghoul and its Western Transformation". Folklore 120 (December 2009): 291–306.

Lebling, Robert & Tahir Shah (2014). "Legends of the Fire Spirits: Jinn and Genies from Arabia to Zanzibar. I.B. Tauris.

Henninger, Joseph (2004). "Beliefs in Spirits among the Pre-Islamic Arabs". In "Magic and Divination in Early Islam". Edited by Emile Savage-Smith. Ashgate Publishing Company.

Rašić, Dunja (2024). "Bedeviled: Jinn Doppelgangers in Islam and Akbarian Sufism". State University of New York Press.

"The Annotated Arabian Nights: Tales from 1001 Nights". Edited by Paulo Lemos Horta. Translated by Yasmine Seale. Liveright Publishing Corporation.

Online version of Qazwini's "Wonders of Creation": https://shamela.ws/book/30006/310?utm_source=chatgpt.com

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Who were the mysterious Sabians of Harran? This forgotten group of ancient star-worshippers left behind one of history’s most fascinating mysteries. We look at the contemporary sources to (try to) find out what these ancient peoples actually believed and practiced.

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Also check out the Let's Talk Religion Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ih4sqtWv0wRIhS6HFgerb?si=95b07d83d0254b

Sources/Recommended Reading:

Dodge, Bayard (translated by) (1970). "The Fihrist of al-Nadim: A Tenth Century Survey of Muslim Culture". Columbia University Press.

Gunduz, Sinasi (1994). "The Knowledge of Life: The Origins and Early History of the Mandaeans and Their Relation to the Sabians of the Qur'an and to the Harranians". Oxford University Press.

Hjärpe, Jan (1972). "Analyse critique des traditions arabes sur les Sabéens Harraniens". Doctoral thesis. University of Uppsala.

Moses Maimonides - "The Guide for the Perplexed - A New Translation". Translated with commentary by Lenn E. Goodman & Philip I. Lieberman.

Stanford University Press.

Tardieu, Michel (1986). "Sabiens coraniques et Sabiens' de Harran'. Journal Asiatique 274, 1-44.

Tardieu, Michel (1987). "Les calandriers en usage a Harran d'aprés les sources arabes et le commentaire de Simplicius a la physique d'Aristotle". In Ilsetraut Hadot, ed., "Simplicius: Sa vie, son aevre, sa survie. Acted du colloque international de Paris (28 Sept.-1 Oct. 1985)". Berlin, de Gruyter, 40-57).

Van Bladel, Kevin (2009). "The Arabic Hermes: From Pagan Sage to Prophet of Science". OUP USA.

Van Bladel, Kevin (2017). "From Sasanian Mandaeans to Sabians of the Marshes". Brill.

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Who were the Sabians (Ṣābi’ūn) mentioned in the Quran? Were they a mysterious religious community, early monotheists, Mandaeans, star-worshippers, or something else entirely? In this video, we explore the fascinating question of the identity of the Sabians, drawing on Islamic sources, Quranic references, historical accounts, and scholarly debates.

Music by Filip Holm (me)

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Gunduz, Sinasi (1994). "The Knowledge of Life: The Origins and Early History of the Mandaeans and Their Relation to the Sabians of the Qur'an and to the Harranians". Oxford University Press.

Van Bladel, Kevin (2009). "The Arabic Hermes: From Pagan Sage to Prophet of Science". OUP USA.

Van Bladel, Kevin (2017). "From Sasanian Mandaeans to Sabians of the Marshes". Brill.

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Who are the Druze? In this video, we explore the history, culture, and beliefs of the Druze people — a small but influential religious community mainly found in Lebanon, Syria and Jordan.

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Sources/Recommended Reading:

Betts, Robert Brenton (2009). "The Druze". Yale University Press.

Daftary, Farhad (2007). "The Isma'ilis: Their history and doctrines". Cambridge University Press.

Firro, Kais M. (2011). "The Druze Faith: Origin, Development and Interpretation". Arabica 58 (2011) 76-99. Brill.

Hirschberg, H.Z. (1981). "The Druzes". In "Religion in the Middle East: Three Religions in Concord and conflict (ed. Arberry, A.J. & Beckingham, C.F.), vol 2. Cambridge University Press.

Hitti, Philip K. (2007). "The Origins of the Druze People and Religion: With Extracts from their Sacred Writings." Saqi Books.

Hodgson, Marshall G.S. (1962). "Al-Darazi and Hamza in the Origins of the Druze Religion". Journal of the American Oriental Society, Vol 82, No. 1.

Walker, Paul E. (2010). "Caliph of Cairo: Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah, 996-1021". The American University in Cairo Press.

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The Jesuits, officially known as the Society of Jesus, are one of the most influential religious orders in the Catholic Church. Founded in 1540 by St. Ignatius of Loyola, they have played a central role in education, missionary work, science, and global history. This video explores who the Jesuits are, their origins, their impact on the Counter-Reformation, and their lasting influence on culture, politics, and spirituality.

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Freidrich, Markus (2023). "The Jesuits: A History". Princeton University Press.Rowman & Littlefield Publishers.

O'Malley, John W. (2014). "The Jesuits: A History from Ignatius to the Present".

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Discover the life, works, and enduring influence of Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274), the Dominican friar whose synthesis of faith and reason transformed philosophy and theology.

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Aquinas, Thomas (1998). "Selected Writings". Penguin Classics.

Davies, Brian & Elenore Stump (ed.) (2012). "The Oxford Handbook of Aquinas". OUP USA.

Kretzmann, Norman & Eleonore Stump (ed.) (2010). "The Cambridge Companion to Aquinas". Cambridge University Press.

The Summa Theologica Translation by Ave Maria Press (1981).

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Dive into the forgotten history of the Amalricians, a radical medieval sect branded heretical by the Catholic Church. Followers of philosopher Amalric of Bena, the Amalricians believed in a mystical union with God and a controversial idea: that God was not separate from creation. Discover how their daring pantheistic beliefs challenged Church orthodoxy — and led to their dramatic suppression in the early 13th century.

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Angus Braid's Website "The Amalrician Heresy" is an excellent source on the Amalricians in particular: https://theamalricianheresy.wordpress.com

Cohn, Norman (1970). "The Pursuit of the Millennium: Revolutionary Millenarians and Mystical Anarchists of the Middle Ages". Oxford University Press.

McGinn, Bernard. "The Presence of God" Series, in several volumes. Perhaps the best and most comprehensive introduction to Christian mysticism. Published by Crossroad Publishing Co.

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In this episode, we explore the powerful philosophy of Pantheism—the belief that God is identical with the universe and everything in it. From ancient roots to modern interpretations, we dive deep into how Pantheism connects spirituality, science, and nature in a unified vision of reality.

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Also check out the Let's Talk Religion Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ih4sqtWv0wRIhS6HFgerb?si=95b07d83d0254b

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Chittick, William (1989). "The Sufi Path of Knowledge: Ibn 'Arabi's Metaphysics of Imagination".

Chittick, William (1998). "The Self-Disclosure of God: Principles of Ibn al-'Arabi's Cosmology". State University of New York Press.

Chittick, William (2005). "Ibn Arabi: Heir to the Prophets". OneWorld Publications.

Garrett, Don (1996). "The Cambridge Companion to Spinoza". Cambridge University Press.

Gatti, Hilary (ed.) (2002). "Giordano Bruno: Philosopher of the Renaissance". Routledge.

Idel, Moshe (1990). "Kabbalah: New Perspectives". Yale University Press.

Inwood, Brad (ed.) (2003). "The Cambridge Companion to the Stoics". Cambridge University Press.

Levine, Michael P.P. (2014). "Pantheism: A Non-Theistic Concept of Deity". Routledge.

McGinn, Bernard. "The Presence of God" Series, in several volumes. Perhaps the best and most comprehensive introduction to Christian mysticism. Published by Crossroad Publishing Co.

Scholem, Gershom (1995). "Major Trends in Jewish Mysticism". Schocken Books; Revised edition.

Rubenstein, Mary-Jane (2018). "Pantheologies: Gods, Worlds, Monsters". Columbia University Press.

Wolfson, Harry Austryn (2014). "The Philosophy of Spinoza: Unfolding the Latent Processes of His Reasoning". Harvard University Press.

"The Ethics" by Spinoza

"Cause, Principle & Unity" by Giordano Bruno

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In this episode, we given an academic, historical overview of the concept of Jihad in Islam, dispelling some misconceptions and nuancing an otherwise thorny topic.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Al-Dawoody, Ahmed Mohsen (2009). "War in Islamic Law: Justifications and Regulations". PhD Thesis. University of Birmingham.

Bashir, Khaled Ramadan (2018). "Islamic International Law: Historical Foundations and Al-Shaybani's Siyar". Edward Elgar Publishing Limited.

Bonner, Michael (2008). “Jihad in Islamic History: Doctrines and Practice”. Princeton University Press.

Brown, Jonathan A.C. (2019). "Slavery and Islam". Oneworld.

Ghazi, Mahmood Ahmad (translated by) (1998). "Kitab al-Siyar al-Saghir" by Muhammad al-Shaybani. Islamic Research Institute.

Hallaq, Wael (2004). "The Origins and Evolution of Islamic Law". Cambridge University Press.

Hallaq, Wael (2009). "Sharia: Theory, Practice, Transformations". Cambridge University Press.

Judd, Steven C. (2009). "al-Awza'i and Sufyan al-Thawri: The Umayyad Madhhab". In Bearman, Peri; Rudolph Peters & Frank E. Vogel (ed.), "The Islamic School of Law: Evolution, Devolution & Progress". Brill.

Judd, Steven C. (2019). "'Abd al-Rahman b. Amr al-Awza'i". In the "Makers of the Muslim World" Series. Oneworld.

Khan Nyazee, Imran Ahsan (translated by) (2000). "The Distinguished Jurist's Primer: Bidayat Al-Mujtahid Wa Nihayat Al-Muqtasid." Vol. 1-2. Garnet Publishing.

Kimball, Michelle R. (2018). "Shaykh Ahmadou Bamba: A Peacemaker for Our Time". The Other Press Sdn. Bhd.

Kiser, John W (2015). "Commander of the Faithful: The Life and Times of Emir Abd El-Kader". Monkfish Book Publishing Company.

Urban, Elizabeth (2020). "Conquered Populations in Early Islam: Non-Arabs, Slaves and the Sons of Slave Mothers". Edinburgh University Press.

Zawati, Hilmi M. (2015). "Theory of War in Islamic and Public International Law". In "Is Jihad Just War? War, Peace and Human Rights under Islamic and Public International Law", (Lewiston, NY: Edwin Mellen Press, 2001) 9-47, reprinted in Niaz A. Shah, ed., Islam and the Law of Armed Conflict (Cheltenham, UK: Edward Elgar,

2015) 249-287.

Zemmali, Ameur (1990). "Imam al-Awza'i and his humanitarian ideas". In International Review of the Red Cross (1961 - 1997) , Volume 30 , Issue 275 , April 1990 , pp. 115 - 123. International Committee of the Red Cross.

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Gutierrez, David (1984). "The Augustinians in The Middle Ages 1256-1356". In "History of The Order of Saint Augustine. Volume 1 - Part 1.". Augustinian Historical Institute. Villanova University.

McGinn, Bernard. "The Presence of God" Series, in several volumes.

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Find me and my music here:

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Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon:

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https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonate

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Clarke, Abdussamad (translated by) (2021). "The Kitab al-Athar of Abu Hanifah". Turath Publishing.

El Shamsy, Ahmed (2013). "The Canonization of Islamic Law: A Social and Intellectual History". Cambridge University Press.

Gohlman, William E. (translated by) (1974). "The Life of Ibn Sina: A Critical Edition and Annotated Translation". State University of New York Press.

Haider, Najam (2012). "The Origins of the Shi'a: Identity, Ritual and Sacred Space in Eighth Century Kufa". Cambridge University Press.

Haider, Najam (2013). "Contesting Intoxication: Early Juristic Debates over the Lawfulness of Alcoholic Beverages". In Islamic Law and Society 20 (2013) 48-89. Brill.

Hallaq, Wael (2004). "The Origins and Evolution of Islamic Law". Cambridge University Press.

Hallaq, Wael (2009). "Sharia: Theory, Practice, Transformations". Cambridge University Press.

Wyman-Landgraf, Umar F. Abd-Allah (2013). "Malik and Medina: Islamic Reasoning in the Formative Period". Brill.

al-Tahawi's "al-Mukhtasar". Arabic version.

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Badakhchani, S.J. (translated by) (1999). “Contemplation and Action: The Spiritual Autobiography of a Muslim Scholar”. I.B. Tauris.

Badakhchani, S.J. (translated by) (2004). “The Paradise of Submission: A Medieval Treatise on Ismaili Thought”. Ismaili Texts and Translations. I.B. Tauris.

Chittick, William (1981). “Mysticism versus Philosophy in Earlier Islamic History: The Al-Ṭūsī, Al-Qūnawī Correspondence”. In Religious Studies

Vol. 17, No. 1 (Mar., 1981). Cambridge University Press.

Daftary, Farhad (2007). "The Isma'ilis: Their history and doctrines". Cambridge University Press.

Meisami, Sayeh (2019). “Nasir al-Din Tusi: A Philosopher for All Seasons”. The Islamic Texts Society.

Qara’i, Ali Quli (translated by) (?) “Awsaf al-Ashraf: Attributes of the Noble”. In al-Tawhid Islamic Journal, Vol.11, No.3, No.4.

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Also check out the Let's Talk Religion Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ih4sqtWv0wRIhS6HFgerb?si=95b07d83d0254b

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Elsie, Robert (2019). "The Albanian Bektashi: History and Culture of a Dervish Order in the Balkans". I.B. Tauris.

Kingsley Birge, John (1937). "The Bektashi Order of Dervishes". Hartford Seminary Press.

Smith, Grace Martin (1993). "The Poetry of Yunus Emre: A Turkish Sufi Poet". University of California Press.

Soileau, Mark (2018). "Humanist Mystics: Nationalism and the Commemoration of Saints in Turkey". The University of Utah Press.

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Ahmed, Shahab (2017). "What is Islam?: The Importance of Being Islamic". Princeton University Press.

Bulliet, Richard (2004) "The Case for Islamo-Christian Civilization". Columbia University Press.

Melvin-Koushki, Matthew (2017). "Powers of One: The Mathematicalization of the Occult Sciences in the High Persianate Tradition". Intellectual History of the Islamicate World 5, no. 1: 127-99.

Ragep, F. Jamil (2004). "Copernicus and His Islamic Predecessors: An Aspect of Islamic Influence on Science". Osiris 16 n.s.: 49-71.

SHWEP episodes:

https://shwep.net/podcast/matthew-melvin-koushki-on-islam-the-west-and-western-esotericism/

https://shwep.net/podcast/matthew-melvin-koushki-on-the-west/

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We explore one of the most influential and significant Hindu figures in modern times.

Written by Anmol Kohli

Co-written by myself (Filip Holm)

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Swami Saradananda, Sri Ramakrishna and His Divine Play (translated by Swami Chetanananda) - the "Leelaprasanga". Vedanta Society of St. Louis.

Mahendranath Gupta, The Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna (translated by Swami Nikhilananda) - the "Kathamrita". Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Center,N.Y.

Ayon Maharaj, Infinite Paths to Infinite Reality: Sri Ramakrishna and Cross-Cultural Philosophy of Religion. OUP USA.

The Life of Swami Vivekananda, by his Eastern and Western Disciples. Vedanta Pr.

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In this episode, we talk about the so-called "Book of the Holy Hierotheos", a Syriac work that contains some of the most radical and shocking mystical teachings from the corpus of early Christian writings.

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Chatonnet, Francoise Briquel & Muriel Debié (2023). "The Syriac World: In Search of a Forgotten Christianity".

Darling Young, Robin; Joel Kalvesmaki; Columba Stewart; Charles M. Stang & Fr. Luke Dysinger (Translated by) (2024). "Evagrius of Pontus: The Gnostic Trilogy". OUP USA.

King, Daniel (2018). "The Syriac World". Routledge.

Luibheid, Colm (Translated by) (1987). "Pseudo-Dionysius: The Complete Works". Classics of Western Spirituality. Paulist Press International.

Marsh, F.S. (Translated by) (1927). "The Book Which is Called The Book of the Holy Hierotheos". Williams & Norgate.

Also check out more info about Evagrius on Luke Dysinger's website: http://www.ldysinger.com/Evagrius/

#hierotheos #mysticism #christianity

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In this episode, we try to get a basic overview of the religion that was practiced in Ancient Egypt.

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Assmann, Jan (2001). "The Search for God in Ancient Egypt". Translated by David Lorton. Cornell University Press.

Dunand, Françoise & Christiane Zivie-Coche (2005). "Gods and Men in Egypt: 3000 BCE to 395 CE". Translated by David Lorton. Cornell University Press.

Hornung, Erik (1996). "Conceptions of God in Ancient Egypt: The One and the Many". Translated by John Baines. Cornell University Press.

Hornung, Erik (1999). "Akhenaten and the Religion of Light". Translated by David Lorton. Cornell University Press.

Meeks, D., & Favard-Meeks, C. (1997). Daily Life of the Egyptian Gods (G. M. Goshgarian, Trans.; Pimilco).

Pinch, G. (2002). Handbook of Egyptian Mythology.

Quirke, Stephen (1992). "Ancient Egyptian Religion". British Museum Press.

Teeter, Emily (2011). "Religion and Ritual in Ancient Egypt". Cambridge University Press.

Wilkinson, R. H. (2003). The Complete Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt.

Wilkinson, R. H. (2000). The Complete Temples of Ancient Egypt.

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In this episode, we tackle one of the most important figures in the history of religion, philosophy, mysticism & the esoteric - the writer calling himself Dionysios, and who would create a synthesis between Neoplatonic philosophy and Christianity in ways the echoed down the centuries.

Check out the Secret History of Western Esotericism Podcast (SHWEP) for more Dionysius content: https://shwep.net

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Lossky, Vladimir (1944). "The Mystical Theology of the Eastern Church". James Clarke & Co.

Luibheid, Colm (Translated by) (1987). "Pseudo-Dionysius: The Complete Works". Classics of Western Spirituality. Paulist Press International.

McGinn, Bernard. "The Presence of God" Series, in several volumes. Perhaps the best and most comprehensive introduction to Christian mysticism. Published by Crossroad Publishing Co.

McGinn, Bernard (2001). "The Mystical Thought of Meister Eckhart: The Man From Whom God Hid Nothing". Crossroad Publishing Co.

The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy Entry on Pseudo-Dionysius: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/pseudo-dionysius-areopagite/

Earl's section:

Human and celestial hierarchies compared: EH 373AB, 376BC; CH 208BCD; EH 501A-D.

Angelic triads: CH 200D: 3 threefold groups of angels, as taught by Pseudo-D's sacred initiator (i.e. Hierotheos); CH 257C: each angelic triad has Iamblichean-style first and last terms with a necessary median term. Cf. Iamb. De myst. V.8.225.5-8; CH 273C ditto; EH 501A: triads au go-go.

Angelic mediation between humans and god: CH 180A. God never appears without intermendiaries, even to the saints: m180C. Even to Jesus: 181C. Long discussion of Isaiah and the Seraphim: 300B ff.

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A long awaited episode, in which we finally talk about the important and controverisal 20th century sufi Inayat Khan and the Sufi Movement that he started in the West.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Gandhi, Supriya (2020). "The Emperor who never was: Dara Shukoh in Mughal India". Belknap Press.

Inayat Khan, Pir Zia (ed.) (2001). "A Pearl in Wine: Essays on the Life, Music & Sufism of Hazrat Inayat Khan". Omega Publications.

Inayat Khan Zia (2006). "A Hybrid Sufi Order At the Crossroads of Modernity: The Sufi Order and Sufi Movement of Pir-o-Murshid Inayat Khan". Doctoral Thesis. Duke University.

Khan, Inayat (1996). "The Mysticism of Sound & Music". Shambala.

Khan, Inayat (2003). "The Sufi Message: Spiritual Liberty" (Vol. 5). Motilal Banarsidass Publications.

Miner, Allyn (translated by) (2016). "The Minqar-i Musiqar: Hazrat Inayat Khan's classic 1912 work on Indian musical theory & practice". Suluk Press.

Nair, Shankar (2020). "Translating Wisdom: Hindu-Muslim Intellectual Interactions in Early Modern South Asia". University of California Press.

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Discover the mysteries of Picatrix (Ghayat al-Hakim), one of the most influential books of magic ever written. This ancient Arabic text has fascinated mystics, scholars, and occultists for centuries with its unique blend of astrology, alchemy, and Hermetic philosophy. In this episode, we explore its origins, history, and the themes it contains.

Thank you to Dr. Saif for appearing in, and helping out with, this video. Check out her excellent work (some of which is listed in the sources below).

Find me and my music here:

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Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon:

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Attrell, Dan & David Porreca (translated by) (2019). “Picatrix: A Medieval Treatise on Astral Magic”. Pennsylvania State University Press.

Fierro, Maribel (1996). “Batinism in al-Andalus: Maslama b. Qasim al-Qurtubi, author of the Rutbat al-Hakim and the Ghayat al-Hakim (Picatrix)”. In “Studia Islamica, 1996/2, 84”. Brill.

Melvin-Koushki, Matthew & Noah Gardner (2017). "Islamicate Occultism: New Perspectives". Brill.

Pingree, David (1981). “Between the Ghaya and the Pixatrix”. In “Journal of the Warburg and Courtauld Institutes, Volume 44, 1981”. University of Chicago Press.

Saif, Liana (2015). "The Arabic Influences on Early Modern Occult Philosophy". Palgrave Macmillan.

Saif, Liana; Francesca Leoni; Matthew Melvin-Koushki & Farouk Yahya (2021). "Islamicate Occult Sciences in Theory and Practice". Brill.

Savage-Smith, Emily (ed.) (2004). "Magic & Divination in Early Islam". Ashgate Publishing.

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In this interview, I speak with Dr. Per Faxneld about Satanism and its different historical and contemporary features & connections.

Check out Dr. Faxneld's Academia page for more: https://sh.academia.edu/PerFaxneld

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We're celebrating this years Halloween by talking about... Halloween. Join me as we explore the history and development of this fascinating holiday, from ancient Celtic roots, to Catholic celebrations and modern pop culture.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Morton, Lisa (2019). "Trick or Treat: A History of Halloween". Reaktion Books.

Rogers, Nicholas (2002). "Halloween: From Pagan Ritual to Party Night". Oxford University Press USA.

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In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of Satanism, its history and different manifestations in the contemporary world. From the ancient history of the devil to the modern Satanic temple, the story of satanism is an intriguing one that touches on everything from religion, occultism, socialism and feminism.

Thank you to Dr. Per Faxneld for appearing in the episode. Check out his publications for more occultism and esotericism!

Find me and my music here:

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Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon:

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Or through a one-time donation:

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Barber, Malcolm, The Cathars: Dualist heretics in Languedoc in the High Middle Ages, Second edition (Harlow, United Kingdom: Pearson, 2013).

Broedel, Hans Peter (2003). "The Malleus Maleficarum and the construction of witchcraft: Theology and popular belief". Manchester University Press.

Faxneld, Per (2017). "Satanic Feminism: Lucifer as the Liberator of Woman in Nineteenth-Century Culture". OUP USA.

Faxneld, Per & Johan Nilsson (2023). "Satanism: A Reader". OUP USA.

Massignon, Louis (1979). "The Passion of Hallaj: Mystic and Martyr of Islam". Vol. 1-4. Translated by Herbert Mason. Princeton University Press.

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Dive into the captivating world of vampire lore as we unravel the centuries-old history of these immortal creatures. From ancient myths to modern pop culture, join us on a mesmerizing journey through the evolution of vampire legends. Discover the origins, folklore, and enduring fascination surrounding these mythical beings & their influence on culture, religion & philosophy.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Adams, Paul (2014). "Written in Blood: A Cultural History of the British Vampire". The History Press.

Barber, Paul (2010). "Vampires, Burial, and Death". Yale University Press.

Groom, Nick (2020). "The Vampire: A New History". Yale University Press.

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Explore the chilling world of Yurei, the vengeful ghosts of Japanese folklore. In this episode, we delve into the origins, stories, and legends surrounding Yurei spirits, from their connection to death and unresolved grudges to their portrayal in popular Japanese horror. Discover the famous tales of Onryo (vengeful ghosts), the haunting role of Yurei in traditional Japanese culture, and how they inspire modern movies like The Ring and The Grudge.

Find me and my music here:

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Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon:

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Or through a one-time donation:

https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonate

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Davisson, Zach (2020). "Yurei: The Japanese Ghost". Chin Music Press Inc.

Morton, Lisa (2017). "Ghosts: A Haunted History". Reaktion Books.

Yoda, Hiroko & Matt Alt (2012). "Yurei Attack!: The Japanese Ghost Survival Guide". Tuttle Publishing.

"A History of Ghosts, Spirits and the Supernatural." 2024. DK.

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Explore the fascinating history of ghosts and uncover the ancient origins of ghost stories from around the world! In this episode, we dive deep into the myths and legends that have shaped our beliefs in the paranormal for centuries. From ancient Egypt to modern Europe, and beyond, we'll investigate how cultures across the globe have described spirits, hauntings, and supernatural phenomena.

Find me and my music here:

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Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon:

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Or through a one-time donation:

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Also check out the Let's Talk Religion Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ih4sqtWv0wRIhS6HFgerb?si=95b07d83d0254b

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Bottéro, Jean (2004). "Religion in Ancient Mesopotamia". Translated by Teresa Lavender Fagan. University of Chicago Press.

Davisson, Zach (2020). "Yurei: The Japanese Ghost". Chin Music Press Inc.

Lebling, Robert & Tahir Shah (2014). "Legends of the Fire Spirits: Jinn and Genies from Arabia to Zanzibar. I.B. Tauris.

Morton, Lisa (2017). "Ghosts: A Haunted History". Reaktion Books.

"A History of Ghosts, Spirits and the Supernatural." 2024. DK.

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Explore the world of Zar spirit possession rituals in Northeast Africa. Join us on a captivating journey as we delve into the rich cultural tapestry of this old tradition, shedding light on the captivating ceremonies, beliefs, and the deep connection between Zar spirits and the practitioners. Discover the mesmerizing dance, powerful music, and the profound significance of Zar in the lives of those who practice it.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

El Hadidi, Hager (2016). "Zar: Spirit Possession, Music, and Healing Rituals in Egypt". The American University in Cairo Press.

Henkesh, Yasmin (2017). "Trance Dancing with the Jinn: The Ancient Art of Contacting Spirits Through Ecstatic Dance". Llewellyn Publications.

Wood, Connor; Saikou Diallo; Ross Gore and Christopher J. Lynch (2018). "Trance, Dissociation, and Shamanism: A Cross-Cultural Model". In "Journal of Cognition and Culture", 18 (5):508-536. Brill.

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We begin this years Shocktober season with another video about jinn - specifically about jinn possession and exorcism in the Islamic world.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Al-Buni, Ahmad ibn ‘Ali. “The Sun of Knowledge (Shams al-Ma’arif): An Arabic Grimoire in Selected Translation”. Translated by Amina Inloes & Illustrated by J.M. Hamade. Revelore Press, 2021.

Henninger, Joseph (2004). "Beliefs in Spirits among the Pre-Islamic Arabs". In "Magic and Divination in Early Islam". Edited by Emile Savage-Smith. Ashgate Publishing Company.

Lebling, Robert & Tahir Shah (2014). "Legends of the Fire Spirits: Jinn and Genies from Arabia to Zanzibar. I.B. Tauris.

Melvin-Koushki, Matthew & Noah Gardner (2017). "Islamicate Occultism: New Perspectives". Brill.

Philips, Bilal (2008). "The Exorcist Tradition in Islam". Al-Hidaayah Publishing & Distribution.

Savage-Smith, Emily (ed.) (2004). "Magic & Divination in Early Islam". Ashgate Publishing.

“Shams al-Ma’arif al-Kubra”. Arabic Printed Edition by Dar al-Mizan.

"The Annotated Arabian Nights: Tales from 1001 Nights". Edited by Paulo Lemos Horta. Translated by Yasmine Seale. Liveright Publishing Corporation.

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Discover the fascinating history, unique traditions, and spiritual significance of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church (Tewahedo Church), one of the oldest Christian denominations in the world. From its roots in the 4th century to its deep cultural and religious influence in Ethiopia, this video explores the church's ancient rituals, sacred texts, and its role in shaping Ethiopian identity. Learn about the significance of the Ark of the Covenant, the role of fasting, and the importance of religious festivals like Timkat and Meskel.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Binns, John (2016). "The Orthodox Church of Ethiopia: A History". I.B. Tauris.

Samuelson, Calum (2023). "Theosis in the Ethiopian Tradition: A Preliminary Assessment". In "Transformation: An International Journal of Holistic Mission Studies", Volume 40, Issue 1.

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We explore the life and profound teachings of Husayn Ibn Mansur al-Hallaj, the 9th-century Sufi mystic known for his controversial declaration, “Ana al-Haqq” (I am the Truth) & the factors which led to his martyrdom. In this video, we delve into al-Hallaj’s spiritual journey, his poetry, role in Sufism, and the lasting impact of his philosophy on Islamic mysticism.

Visit my linktree to find our new song, socials & more: https://linktr.ee/filipholm

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Ernst, Carl W. (translated by) (2018). "Hallaj: Poems of a Sufi Martyr". Northwestern University Press.

Karamustafa, Ahmet T. (2007). "Sufism - the formative period". Edinburgh University Press.

Knysh, Alexander (2012). "Islamic Mysticism: A Short History". Brill.

Losensky, Paul (translated by) (2009). "Farid ad-Din Attrs Memorial of God's Friends: Lives and Sayings of Sufis". Paulist Press.

Massignon, Louis (1979). "The Passion of Hallaj: Mystic and Martyr of Islam". Vol. 1-4. Translated by Herbert Mason. Princeton University Press.

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Check out my linktree to find our new song, socials & more: https://linktr.ee/filipholm

Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon:

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https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/letstalkreligion

Also check out the Let's Talk Religion Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ih4sqtWv0wRIhS6HFgerb?si=95b07d83d0254b

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Clark, Gillian (translated by) (2000). "Porphyry: On Abstinence from Killing Animals". Bristol Classical Press.

Gerson, Loyd P. (ed.) (2019). "Plotinus: The Enneads". Cambridge University Press.

Gerson, Loyd P (2008). "Cambridge Companion to Plotinus". Cambridge University Press.

Huffman, Carl A. (ed.) (2017). "A History of Pythagoreanism". Cambridge University Press.

Iamblichus "On the Mysteries". Tranlsated by Emma C. Clarke, John M. Dillon & Jackson P. Hershell. Writings from the Graeco-Roman World. Society of Biblical Literature.

Kirk, G.S., J.E. Raven & M. Schofield (1983). "The Presocratic Philosophers". Second Edition. Cambridge University Press.

Shaw, Gregory (2014). "Theurgy and the Soul: The Neoplatonism of Iamblichus". Angelico Press/Sophia Perennis.

Wallis, R.T. (1998). "Neoplatonism". Second Edition. Bristol Classical Paperbacks. Hackett Publishing Company.

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Check out my linktree to find our new song, socials & more: https://linktr.ee/filipholm

Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon:

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Or through a one-time donation:

https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/letstalkreligion

Also check out the Let's Talk Religion Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ih4sqtWv0wRIhS6HFgerb?si=95b07d83d0254b

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Brose, Benjamin (2021). "Xuanzang: China's Legendary Pilgrim and Translator". Shambhala Publications.

Westerhoff, Jan (2009). "Nagarjuna's Madhyamaka: A Philosophical Introduction". Oxford University Press.

Wriggins, Sally Hovey (1996). "Xuanzang: A Buddhist Pilgrim On The Silk Road". Routledge.

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Check out my linktree to find our new singe, socials & more: https://linktr.ee/filipholm

Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon:

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https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/letstalkreligion

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Bryant, Edwin F. (translated by) (2009). "The Yoga Sutras of Patañjali: A New Edition, Translation, and Commentary ". North Point Press.

Beck, Guy L. (2009). "Sonic Theology: Hinduism and Sacred Sound". University of South Carolina Press.

Eaton, Richard M. (2020). "India in the Persianate Age: 1000-1765". Penguin.

Ernst, Carl W. (1996). "Sufism and Yoga according to Muhammad Ghawth". University of North Carolina.

Ernst, Carl W. (2016). "Refractions of Islam in India: Situating Sufism and Yoga". SAGE YODA Press; First Edition.

Gandhi, Supriya (2020). "The Emperor who never was: Dara Shukoh in Mughal India". Belknap Press.

Kugle, Scott (ed.) (2012). "Sufi Meditation and Contemplation: Timeless Wisdom from Mughal India". Omega Publications. (Includes a translation of the "Risala-i Haqqnuma"/Compass of Truth.

Mallinson, James & Mark Singleton (2017). "Roots of Yoga". Penguin Classics.

Moovsi, Shireen (2002). "The Mughal Encounter with Vedanta: Recovering the biography of 'Jadrup'". Social scientist, Vol. 30, Nos. 7-8.

Nair, Shankar (2020). "Translating Wisdom: Hindu-Muslim Intellectual Interactions in Early Modern South Asia". University of California Press.

Samuel, Geoffrey (2008). "The Origins of Yoga and Tantra: Indic Religions to the Thirteenth Century". Cambridge University Press.

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In this episode, we explore the world of Seidr in old Norse culture. Can it be called mysticism? Or perhaps a part of the wider phenomenon of "shamanism"? These are questions and topics we explore in this one.

Check out my linktree to find our new singe, socials & more: https://linktr.ee/filipholm

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Also check out the Let's Talk Religion Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ih4sqtWv0wRIhS6HFgerb?si=95b07d83d0254b

Music by:

Filip Holm

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Lindow, John (2002). "Norse Mythology: A Guide to Gods, Heroes, Rituals, and Beliefs". Oxford University Press.

Näsström, Britt-Mari (1995). "Freyja - the great goddess of the north". Almqvist & Wiksell International.

Price, Neil (2019). "The Viking Way: Magic and Mind in Late Iron Age Scandinavia". Oxbow Books; 2nd ed. edition.

Stensland, Gro (2007). "Fornnordisk Religion". Natur Kultur Akademisk.

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Bharati, Agehananda (1965). "The Tantric Tradition". B.I. Publications.

Bhattacharyya, N.N. (2005). "History of the Tantric Religion". Second Revised Edition. Manohar.

Bryant, Edwin F. (translated by) (2009). "The Yoga Sutras of Patañjali: A New Edition, Translation, and Commentary ". North Point Press.

Ernst, Carl W. (1996). "Sufism and Yoga according to Muhammad Ghawth". University of North Carolina.

Mallinson, James & Mark Singleton (2017). "Roots of Yoga". Penguin Classics.

Olivelle, Patrick (translated by) (2008). "Upanisads". Oxford University Press.

Samuel, Geoffrey (2008). "The Origins of Yoga and Tantra: Indic Religions to the Thirteenth Century". Cambridge University Press.

Wallis, Christopher D. (2013). "Tantra Illuminated: The Philosophy, History and Practice of a Timeless Tradition". Mattamayura.

White, David Gordon (2000). "Tantra in Practice". Princeton University Press.

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Addas, Claude (1993). "Quest for the Red Sulphur". The Islamic Texts Society.

Austin, R.W.J. (translated by) (1980). "The Bezels of Wisdom". Classics of Western Spirituality Series. Paulist Press.

Chittick, William (1989). "The Sufi Path of Knowledge: Ibn 'Arabi's Metaphysics of Imagination".

Chittick, William (1998). "The Self-Disclosure of God: Principles of Ibn al-'Arabi's Cosmology". State University of New York Press.

Chittick, William (2005). "Ibn Arabi: Heir to the Prophets". OneWorld Publications.

Chodkiewicz, Michel (1993). "Seal of the Saints: Prophethood and sainthood in the doctrine of Ibn 'Arabi". Translated by Liadain Sherrard. The Islamic Texts Society.

Caner Dagli (translated by) (2004). Ibn 'Arabi - "The Ringstones of Wisdom (Fusus al-Hikam)". Great Books of the Islamic World. Kazi Pubns Inc.

Ibn Arabi - "The Universal Tree and the Four Birds (al-ittihad al-kawni). Translated by Angela Jaffray. Oxford: Anqa Publishing.

Ibn 'Arabi - "The Openings Revealed in Makkah: al-futuhat al-makkiyya". Translated by Eric Winkel. Volumes 1-4. Pir Press.

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In this video we explore the life, death and legacy of the 5th century Alexandrian philosopher Hypatia, the very dramatic events that led to her brutal murder and what this can tell us (or not) about the transition from antiquity to the middle ages.

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Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon:

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Athanassiadi, Polymnia (ed.) (1999). "Damascius: The Philosophical History: text with translation and notes". Apamea Cultural Association.

Gerson, Loyd P (2008). "Cambridge Companion to Plotinus". Cambridge University Press.

Gregory, John (ed.) (1998). "The Neoplatonists: a reader". Routledge.

Shaw, Gregory (2014). "Theurgy and the Soul: The Neoplatonism of Iamblichus". Angelico Press/Sophia Perennis.

Wallis, R.T. (1998). "Neoplatonism". Second Edition. Bristol Classical Paperbacks. Hackett Publishing Company.

Watts, Edward J. (2018). "Hypatia: The Life and Legend of an Ancient Philosopher". Academic.

Socrates Scholasticus: https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/26017.htm

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In this episode, we explore the fascinating character of Fazlallah Astarabadi and his Hurufi (Lettrist) movement, as we dive into the world of Occultism and Esotericism in medieval Iran.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Bashir, Shahzad (2005). "Fazlallah Astarabadi and the Hurufis". Oneworld Publications.

Burrill, Kathleen R. F. (1972). "The Quatrains of Nesimî Fourteenth-Century Turkic Hurufi". De Gruyter.

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Dive into the timeless wisdom of Ibn Sina, also known as Avicenna, and his philosophy. Explore the profound teachings and contributions of this influential Islamic philosopher, physician, and polymath. From his groundbreaking philosophical works to his advancements in medicine and even a famous "proof" for the existence of God. In this episode, we explore the historical context and legacy of one of history's greatest minds.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Adamson, Peter (ed.) (2011). "The Cambridge Companion to Arabic Philosophy". Cambridge University Press.

Gohlman, William E. (translated by) (1974). "The Life of Ibn Sina: A Critical Edition and Annotated Translation". State University of New York Press.

Inati, Shams (translated by) (1984). "Remarks and Admonitions: Part One - Logic". Pontifical Institute of Mediaeval Studies.

Inati, Shams (1996). "Ibn Sina & Mysticism: Remarks and Admonitions (Part 4 - Sufism)". Routledge.

Inati, Shams (translated by) (2014). "Ibn Sina's Remarks and Admonitions: Physics and Metaphysics: An Analysis and Annotated Translation". Columbia University Press.

Marmura, Michael E. (translated by) (2005). "Avicenna: The Metaphysics of The Healing". University of Chicago Press.

McGinnis, Jon (translated by) (2010). "Avicenna: The Physics of The Healing – A Parallel English–Arabic Text". University of Chicago Press.

Morewedge, Parviz (1992). "Neoplatonism and Islamic Thought". State University of New York Press.

Suhrawardi (1187). "The Philosophy of Illumination". Translated by John Walbridge & Hossein Ziai. Islamic Translation Series. University of Chicago Press.

Winter, Tim (ed.) (2008). "The Cambridge Companion to Islamic Theology". Cambridge University Press.

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In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of Dune and the religious themes that we can find in the books and movies.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Amir-Moezzi, Mohammad Ali (1994). "The Divine Guide in Early Shi'ism: The Sources of Esotericism in Islam". Translated by David Streight. State University of New York Press.

Amir-Moezzi, Mohammad Ali (2011). "The Spirituality of Shi'i Islam: Beliefs and Practices". I.B. Tauris.

Chittick, William (1989). "The Sufi Path of Knowledge: Ibn 'Arabi's Metaphysics of Imagination".

Chittick, William (1998). "The Self-Disclosure of God: Principles of Ibn al-'Arabi's Cosmology". State University of New York Press.

Corbin, Henry (1998). "Alone with the Alone - Creative Imagination in the Sūfism of Ibn 'Arabī". Princeton University Press; Revised edition.

McNelly, Willis E. (1987). "The Dune Encyclopedia". Berkley.

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In this episode, we explore the fascinating and controversial Qalandariyya and similar movements like the Haydais & Shams-i Tabrizis. We also dive into the historical development of this movement, from the early Malamatis to the extreme ascetic dervishes in the Ottoman empire.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Dahlén, Ashk (2004). "The Holy Fool in Medieval Islam: The Qalandariyat of Fakhr al-din Araqi". Orientalia Suecana, vol.52.

De Bruijn, J.T.P (1999). "The Qalandariyyat in Persian Mystical Poetry, from Sana'i Onwards". In "The Heritage of Sufism, Vol. 2" (Edited by Leonard Lewisohn). Oneworld Publicaions.

Karamustafa, Ahmet T. (2006). "Gods Unruly Friends: Dervish Groups in the Islamic Later Middle Period, 1200-1550". Oneworld Publications.

Sviri, Sara (1999). "Hakim Tirmidhi and the Malamati Movement in Early Sufism". In The Heritage of Sufism, Vol. 1 (Edited by Leonard Lewisohn). Oneworld Publications.

Toussulis, Yannis (2011). "Sufism and the Way of Blame: Hidden Sources of a Sacred Psychology". Quest Books, U.S.

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In this third and final installment of the introductions to Shi'i Islam, we dive into the history and teachings of the Zaydis, the smallest but stillvery significant school that has been a significant part of the history of Yemen.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Amir-Moezzi, Mohammad Ali (1994). "The Divine Guide in Early Shi'ism: The Sources of Esotericism in Islam". Translated by David Streight. State University of New York Press.

Amir-Moezzi, Mohammad Ali (2011). "The Spirituality of Shi'i Islam: Beliefs and Practices". I.B. Tauris.

Daftary, Farhad (2007). "The Isma'ilis: Their history and doctrines". Cambridge University Press.

Haider, Najam (2012). "The Origins of the Shi'ia: Identity, Ritual, and Sacred Space in Eighth-Century Kufa". Cambridge University Press.

Haider, Najam (2014). "Shi'i Islam: An Introduction". Cambridge University Press.

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Discover the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Abd al-Qadir al-Jaza'iri. From his leadership during the Algerian resistance against French colonization to his commitment to his Islamic religious beliefs & sufi mysticism. Abd al-Qadir impact reverberates through history. Join us as we explore one of the most fascinating and inspiring figures of modern history.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Bouyerdene, Ahmed (2012). "Emir Abd El-Kader: Hero and Saint of Islam". World Wisdom Books.

Chittick, William (1989). "The Sufi Path of Knowledge: Ibn 'Arabi's Metaphysics of Imagination".

Chittick, William (1998). "The Self-Disclosure of God: Principles of Ibn al-'Arabi's Cosmology". State University of New York Press.

Chodkiewicz, Michel (ed.) (1995). "The Spiritual Writings of Amir ʿAbd al-Kader". State University of New York Press.

Caner Dagli (translated by) (2004). Ibn 'Arabi - "The Ringstones of Wisdom (Fusus al-Hikam)". Great Books of the Islamic World. Kazi Pubns Inc.

Kiser, John W (2015). "Commander of the Faithful: The Life and Times of Emir Abd El-Kader". Monkfish Book Publishing Company.

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Dive into the fascinating world of Zoroastrianism, its ancient hsitory and ethical teachings, from its origins with the prophet Zarathushtra through the Achaemenid, Parthian and Sasanian empires and all the way until today. Discover how Zoroastrianism might be one of the most important religions in history, influencing some of the most famous and popular religons and philosophies in the world.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Boyce, Mary (2000). "Zoroastrians: Their Their Religious Beliefs and Practices". Routledge; 2nd edition.

Dahlén, Ashk (transl.) (2023). "Zarathustra: Sånger". h:ström.

Humbach, Helmut & Pallan Ichaporia (transl.) (1994). "The Heritage of Zarathushtra: A New Translation of His Gathas. Universitatsverlag Winter.

Moazami, Mahnaz (ed.) (2016). "Zoroastrianism: A collection of Articles from the Encyclopedia Iranica". ENCYCLOPAEDIA IRANICA FOUNDATION. 2 Volumes. Rose, Jenny (2019). "Zoroastrianism: An Introduction". I.B. Tauris Introduction to Religions. Bloomsbury Academic.

Strausberg, Michael; & Yuhan Sohrab-Dinshaw Vevaina (ed.) (2015). "The Wiley-Blackwell Companion to Zoroastrianism". Wiley-Blackwell.

A second translation of the Gathas: http://avesta.org/dastur/Dinshaw_J_Irani_The_Gathas.pdf

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Delve into the enigmatic practices, sacred rituals, and esoteric beliefs that shaped the spiritual & philosophical landscape of the ancient Hellenic world. From the Eleusinian Mysteries to the Oracle at Delphi, Pythagoreans and the writings of Plato, join us as we unravel the mysticism that infused every aspect of ancient Greek life, exploring the aspects that continues to captivate our imaginations today.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Bowden, Hugh (2010). "Mystery cults in the Ancient World". Thames and Hudson Ltd.

Burkert, William (1982). "Greek Religion". Harvard University Press.

Burkert, William (1988). "Ancient Mystery Cults". Harvard University Press.

Cooper, John M. et. al (translated by) (1997). "Plato: Complete Works". Hackett Publishing.

Dodds, E.R. (2004). "The Greeks & The Irrational". University of California Press.

Evans, Nancy A. “Sanctuaries, Sacrifices, and the Eleusinian Mysteries.” Numen, Vol. 49, No. 3 (2002): 227-254.

Mylonas, George E. “Eleusis and the Eleusinian Mysteries.” The Classical Journal, Vol. 43, No. 3 (1947): 130-146.

Ustinova, Yulia (2017). "Divine Mania: Alterations of Consciousness in Ancient Greece". Routledge.

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We continue our series on mysticism by exploring Judaism and its mystical tradition, including the famous Kabbalah but also going beyond it.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Dan, Joseph (1986). "The Early Kabbalah". Classics of Western Spirituality Series. Paulist Press.

Fine, Lawrence (2003). "Physician of the Soul, Healer of the Cosmos: Isaac Luria and His Kabbalistic Fellowship". Stanford University Press.

Idel, Moshe (1987). "The Mystical Experience in Abraham Abulafia". State University of New York Press.

Idel, Moshe (1988). "Studies in Ecstatic Kabbalah". State University of New York Press.

Idel, Moshe (1990). "Kabbalah: New Perspectives". Yale University Press.

Idel, Moshe (1995). "Hasidism: Between Ecstacy and Magic". SUNY Press.

Kaplan, Aryeh (translated by) (1990). "The Bahir: Illumination". Red Wheel/Weiser; Revised ed. edition.

Kraemer, Joel L. (2010). "Maimonides: The Life and World of one of Civilization's Greatest Minds". Doubleday & Co Inc.

Krassen, Mosheh Aaron. “Introduction: Rabbi Israel Ba’al Shem Tov: Prophet of a New Paradigm.” In Israel ben Eliezer. Pillar of Prayer. Translated by Menachem Kallus. Louisville, KY: Fons Vitae, 2010.

Lobel, Diana (2021). "Moses and Abraham Maimonides: Encountering the Divine". Academic Studies Press.

Miller, Moshe (translated by) (1994). "The Palm Tree of Devorah". Targum.

Russ-Fishbane, Elisha (2015). "Judaism, Sufism, and the Pietists of Medieval Egypt: A study of Abraham Maimonides and his times". Oxford University Press. Scholem, Gershom (1995). "Major Trends in Jewish Mysticism". Schocken Books; Revised edition.

Scholem, Gershom (1996). "On the Kabbalah and its Symbolism". Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group; Revised ed. edition.

Wolfson, Elliot R. (1997). “Jewish mysticism: A Philosophical Overview,” in History of Jewish Philosophy, Daniel Frank, Oliver Leaman (eds.).

Wolfson, Eliot R. (2011). “Abraham ben Samuel Abulafia and the Prophetic Kabbalah”. In Jewish Mysticism & Kabbalah (ed. Frederick E. Greenspahn). New York University Press.

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We countinue or Christmas special this year by reading the third sermon by the catholic mystic Meister Eckhart.

The translation used here is by Maurice O'C Walshe in the volume "The Complete Mysical Works of Meister Eckhart", which is highly recomended.

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We countinue or Christmas special this year by reading the third sermon by the catholic mystic Meister Eckhart.

The translation used here is by Maurice O'C Walshe in the volume "The Complete Mysical Works of Meister Eckhart", which is highly recomended.

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Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays! We end our Christmas special this year by reading the fourth and last sermon by the catholic mystic Meister Eckhart.

The translation used here is by Maurice O'C Walshe in the volume "The Complete Mysical Works of Meister Eckhart", which is highly recomended.

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The Council of Nicea is probably one of the most misrepresented events in early Christianity, with a lot of misinformation being spread around on social media. The same goes for Arius, the Arians and what they actually believed. In this video, we tackle these topics and try to give a more proper overview of the complexities of early Christian theology.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Brakke, David (2012). "Gnostics: Myth, Ritual, and Diversity in Early Christianity". Harvard University Press.

King, Karen (2003). "What is Gnosticism?". Harvard University Press.

Williams, Rowan (2002). "Arius: Heresy & Tradition". Eerdmans.

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In this episode, we explore the fascinating spiritual and philosophical teachings of the non-canonical Gospel of Philip. Often termed a "gnostic" text, this incredible ancient document contains some truly interesting ideas, and a very controversial and famous account of Jesus and Mary Magdalene.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

Brakke, David (2012). "Gnostics: Myth, Ritual, and Diversity in Early Christianity". Harvard University Press.

King, Karen (2003). "What is Gnosticism?". Harvard University Press.

Meyer, Marvin (ed.) (2009). "The Nag Hammadi Scriptures: The Revised and Updated Translation of Sacred Gnostic Texts". HarperOne; International, Reprint, Revised, Updated edition. Smith, Geoffrey S. (2020). "Valentinian Christianity – Texts and Translations". University of California Press.

Van den Broek, Roelof (2013). "Gnostic Religion in Antiquity". Cambridge University Press.

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

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In this interview with the amazing Professor David Thurfjell, we talk about the contemporary phenomenon of nature spirituality in the Nordic countries. Has the concept of "nature" become a main source of meaning for Scandinavians, and maybe even replaced the function of religion?

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Finally, we're talking about the incredibly significant Persian sufi poet Jalal al-din Rumi. This video provides an in-depth analysis of Rumi's life, poetic themes, literary contributions, and their significance in the context of Sufism and Persian literature.

Thank you to Safa Mirror for the beautiful reading of the Song of the Reed! Link to channel: https://www.youtube.com/@safamirror

Sources/Recomended Reading:

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Embark on an intellectual journey into the realm of Sufism. Explore the intricate history, philosophical underpinnings, and mystical practices that have shaped this fascinating tradition. Join me as we delve into the topic of Sufi mysticism, shedding light on its profound impact on Islam & its history.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

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Embark on an intellectual odyssey as we delve into the depths of Stoicism, the profound philosophy that has captivated minds for centuries. In this video, we unravel the intricate principles of Stoicism and examine its relevance in history and today. Expand your understanding of Stoicism's enduring impact on the history of philosphy, religion and esotericism.

Sources/Suggested Reading:

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This year we are celebrating the Christmas season by reading the amazing advent sermons of the german mystic philosopher Meister Eckhart. There are three more sermons coming after this one.

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Delve into the philosophical and theological parallels that shaped the development of early Christian thought. From the influence of Plotinus and his concepts of the One and the emanation of divine beings, to the fusion of Platonic ideas with Christian theology, this video uncovers the intellectual interplay that helped shape the foundations of Western spirituality. Explore how Neoplatonic concepts, such as the nature of the soul, the hierarchy of being, and the pursuit of the divine, found resonance within Christian doctrines.

Sources/Suggested Reading:

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In this episode, we continue exploring the rich spiritual tradition of Buddhism through one of its most profound and important schools - Chan/Zen. We dive into the history and development of the school, as well as its characteristic teachings about meditation, koans, liberation and Buddha-nature.

Sources/Suggested Reading:

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Explore the mystical world of Sufi poetry with Ibn al-Farid, one of the greatest poets of the genre. In this episode, we delve into the life and works of this revered 13th-century poet, examining the spiritual and philosophical themes that make his poetry so enduring. From his famous ode "The Wine Ode" to the magnificent "Poem of the Sufi Way", as well as his spiritual musings on the path to divine union.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

#sufism #mysticism #poetry

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Join me on a journey through the life and poetry of Lal Ded, one of the most revered mystic poets of Kashmir. Lal Ded lived in the 14th century and her poetry has since inspired generations of people in the region and beyond. In this video, we explore Lal Ded's life, her poetry, and her impact on the culture of Kashmir.

Sources/Suggested Reading:

#shaivism #mysticism #kashmir

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In this episode, we delve into the diverse world of Islamic mysticism beyond just Sufism. Join us as we explore the various types of mysticism that have existed throughout the history of Islam. Discover the differences and similarities between them, and gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating aspect of Islamic spirituality.

Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon:

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Or through a one-time donation:

https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/letstalkreligion

Sources/Further Reading:

#sufism #mysticism #andalucia

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Finally it is time to talk about the tantric tradition of non-dual Kashmir Shaivism, as well as some of its representatives like the great Abhinavagupta.

Music by:

Filip Holm

Banaras Baba & Kolkata Kid

Pawan Krishna

Palace on Wheels

Sources/Suggested Reading:

#hinduism #kashmir #mysticism

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The concept of "jihad" in Islam is often oversimplified, and in this episode we explore one example of a "pacifist" tradition within Islam assoicated with Salim Suwari and the Suwarian tradition.

Sources/Suggested Reading:

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This episode is a sort of remake of an earlier one I did on al-Shushtari a few years back, with some added content. Join me as we explore on of the most fascinating Sufi poets in history.

Translations of poems and the Baghdad Treatise are from the works of Lourdes Maria Alvarez.

Translations from Risalat al-Qusariyya are by Yousef Casewit.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

#sufism #mysticism #islam

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We celebrate Easter by looking at one of the most interesting non-canonical texts from the early development of Christianity.

Sources/Suggested Reading:

#marymagdalene #gnosticism #christianity

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In this episode, I share some thoughts about the month of Ramdan, its basic features and some perspectives from scholars on the philosophy behind it.

#Ramdan #Islam #Fasting

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We continue our exploration of Pythagoreanism by diving into the music of the spheres, and how this idea has influenced thinkers across history.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

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It's time to talk about a few ways that Neoplatonic ideas have shown up in the history of Islamic thought.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

#neoplatonism #islam #philosophy

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

Also check out the excellent episodes about Plotinus on the "Secret History of Western Esotericism" pocast: https://shwep.net/

#neoplatonism #philosophy #plotinus

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

#gospelofjudas #gnosticism #christianity

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In this second part in our series about Shia Islam, we explore the esoteric Isma'ilis, their history and Neoplatonist-influenced theology.

Thanks to Dr. Khalil Andani for the help. Check out his channel here:

https://www.youtube.com/@KhalilAndani

Sources/Recomended Reading:

A good source for Isma'ilism is also Isma'ili Gnosis: https://ismailignosis.com/

#Islam #ismaili #esoteric

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Sources/Recomended Reading:

#gospelofthomas #gnosticism #christianity

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In this episode, we explore the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Qumran community and ask the question whether or not this group can be identified as the Essenes.

Sources/Recomended Reading:

#essenes #archeology #deadseascrolls

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In this episode, we explore the fascinating life of Apollonius of Tyana, a Neopythagorean philosopher whose life in many ways mirror that of Jesus.

Sources/Suggested Reading:

#Apollonius #jesus #ancient

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This has been one of the most requested subjects, it is finally time to talk about Mulla Sadra.

Sources/Recommended Reading:

#Philosophy #Islam #Mysicism

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We continue our exploration of Sufi poetry by looking at one of the greatest poets to write in the Turkish language.

Sources/Suggested Reading:

#yunusemre #sufism #poetry

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The translation of this sermon is taken from:

Walshe, Maurice O'C (ed.) (2009). "The Complete Mystical Works of Meister Eckhart". The Crossroad Publishing Company.

For more information about Eckhart, suggested reading includes the following:

You can also watch my previous video on the topic:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hg0c32KbA-g&t=1330s

#Christmas #Mysticism #Christianity

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