Way of the Hermit
Way of the Hermit explores the Western Esoteric Tradition, covering topics such as Gnosticism, alchemy, Freemasonry, mysticism, and Hermetic lore. The podcast is hosted by Dr. David Brown and Gene Lawson, who delve into ancient wisdom and spiritual teachings. Listeners can expect discussions on esoteric philosophies and practices from a scholarly perspective.
Episodes
S2E21: Gnosticism Epilogue
In this Season 2 finale, David and Gene synthesize their entire journey through Gnosticism, revealing how the four texts they covered create a complete initiatory system for spiritual awakening.After exploring the Perennial Philosophy through Freemasonry's "Key to the Mysteries" in Season 1, they discovered what that key unlocks: the suppressed wisdom of Gnosticism - teachings so da
S2E20: The Thunder, Perfect Mind - Part 2 of 2
In this concluding episode on "The Thunder, Perfect Mind," Gene and David navigate the profound paradoxes of one of Gnosticism's most enigmatic texts. The voice of Barbelo - divine consciousness itself - speaks through declarations that shatter conventional understanding: "I am godless, and I am the one whose God is great," "I am control and the uncontrollable,"
S2E19: The Thunder, Perfect Mind - Part 1 of 2
In this episode, Gene and David begin their exploration of “The Thunder, Perfect Mind,” one of the most enigmatic and paradoxical texts from the Nag Hammadi library. This mysterious Gnostic revelation presents the divine feminine Voice (Barbelo) speaking in riddles and contradictions that deliberately shake the foundations of dualistic thinking. "I am the first and the last. I am the honored
S2E18: The Trimorphic Protennoia - Part 4 of 4
In the conclusion to their exploration of the Trimorphic Protennoia, David and Gene delve into the third and final descent of divine consciousness - the emergence of the Son, the Word, from the Voice of the Mother. In this episode we unpack the full expression of the Gnostic trinity, and discuss how reality itself is structured like a mind. We explore the "seed pattern" of consciousness,
S2E17: The Trimorphic Protennoia - Part 3 of 4
In this episode, David and Gene journey into the heart of one of Gnosticism's most profound and transformative myths - the second descent of the Trimorphic Protennoia. This stage represents the "pregnancy" phase in the evolution of consciousness, following the implantation of the seed idea of Unity, during the first descent.What follows is a psychic apocalypse, an inner "Dark N
S2E16: The Trimorphic Protennoia - Part 2 of 4
In this episode, Gene and David continue their deep dive into the Gnostic text, "The Trimorphic Protennoia," completing their discussion of the first of three descents of the divine feminine principle. They review how consciousness unfolds through the archetypes of Father (unmanifest thought), Mother (the threshold of voice), and Son (the manifest word), revealing the recursive and myste
S2E15: The Trimorphic Protennoia - Part 1 of 4
In this episode of the “Way of the Hermit” podcast, Gene and David embark on a 4-part exploration of the Trimorphic Protennoia (”Three Forms of the First Thought") - a cornerstone text from the Nag Hammadi library. This episode builds on their previous journeys through the "Secret Gospel of John" and the "Gospel of Thomas," tracing the descent and return of the soul throug
S2E14: The Gospel of Thomas - Part 5 of 5
In this concluding episode of their five-part series, David and Gene explore the final 22 sayings of the Gospel of Thomas (93-114), revealing the text's most profound mysteries about spiritual transformation and divine realization.These culminating teachings address the protection of sacred wisdom ("pearls before swine"), the gradual process of inner transformation symbolized by yea
S2E13: The Gospel of Thomas - Part 4 of 5
In this episode, David and Gene continue their exploration of the Gospel of Thomas, examining sayings 70-92. These sayings focus on navigating the duality between spiritual and material worlds and the constant choices we must make between them.The esoteric meaning behind the sayings of Jesus in the Gospel are discussed, starting with the call to activate the latent "divine spark" within
S2E12: The Gospel of Thomas - Part 3 of 5
In this episode, David and Gene continue their discussion of the Gospel of Thomas, exploring sayings 47-69 of this profound and mysterious Gnostic text. The sayings it contains offer timeless insights into the spiritual path, providing guidance for those striving to transcend material attachments and awaken to higher consciousness.Building on their previous discussions, they delve deeper into the
S2E11: The Gospel of Thomas - Part 2 of 5
In this episode, David and Gene continue their exploration of the Gospel of Thomas, examining sayings 24-46 of this enigmatic Gnostic text. Building on their previous discussion, they delve deeper into the three-world Gnostic cosmology: the unity of the spiritual Pleroma, the duality of the realm of Soul/Mind (Heaven), and the unity in multiplicity of the physical world (Earth).They begin by discu
S2E10: The Gospel of Thomas - Part 1 of 5
In this episode of the Way of the Hermit Podcast, David and Gene begin their exploration of the Gospel of Thomas, a collection of 114 enigmatic sayings attributed to the “Living Jesus,” that, like the other Gnostic texts discovered in the cache at Nag Hammadi, Egypt - challenges conventional religious notions.Unlike the cosmological narrative of the Secret Gospel of John, the teachings in the Gosp
S2E9: The Secret Gospel of John - Part 4 of 4
In this episode of Way of the Hermit, David and Gene conclude their deep dive into The Secret Gospel of John, uncovering its profound esoteric teachings on self-awareness, spiritual awakening, and the cosmic struggle between light and darkness.Picking up where the last episode left off, they explore how the creation of Eve symbolizes a division within Adam’s unified self, representing the separati
S2E8: The Secret Gospel of John - Part 3 of 4
In this episode of Way of the Hermit, David and Gene continue their exploration of the “Secret Gospel of John,” delving deeper into the text’s esoteric description of the evolution of consciousness.The primary story arc of this episode concerns the awakening of self-consciousness and awareness, and also the accompanying feeling of being “not whole.” The narrative follows how Sophia, representing d
S2E7: The Secret Gospel of John - Part 2 of 4
In this episode, David and Gene continue their exploration of the Secret Gospel of John, delving into its complex cosmology and comparing it with Neoplatonic philosophy. They review the discussion from the previous episode that detailed the first phases the evolution of consciousness through the emanations of (1) the Monad (pure undifferentiated consciousness - will), (2) Barbelo (first reflection
S2E6: The Secret Gospel of John - Part 1 of 4
In this episode, David and Gene begin their exploration of "The Secret Gospel of John," also known as the "Apocryphon of John," a pivotal text in the Sethian Gnostic tradition. They discuss the text's history, its multiple versions, and its significance as a comprehensive presentation of Gnostic cosmology and theology.The discussion delves into the concept of the Monad, th
S2E5: Gnostic Christianity
In this episode, David and Gene delve into the fascinating world of Gnostic Christianity, exploring its origins, philosophical concepts, and enduring influence.The episode explores the historical and philosophical landscape that gave birth to Gnostic Christianity, focusing on Alexandria's crucial role as a melting pot of Eastern and Western thought. David and Gene also discuss the significanc
S2E4: Gnosis Reborn
In this episode of "Way of the Hermit," David and Gene dive down the rabbit hole, into the world of Gnosticism and its connection to Freemasonry. They explore how Gnostic teachings, once considered heretical, were driven underground and lay buried for centuries until their rediscovery in the 20th century. They discuss the core principles of Gnosticism, emphasizing its focus on direct inn
S2E3: Introducing Gnosis
In this episode, David and Gene begin their deep dive into Gnosticism and its intimate connection to Freemasonry. They explore the key concepts that form the foundation of Gnostic thought, including the Monad, Emanations, Duality, and the pursuit of Gnosis, and discuss how these ideas are woven into the fabric of Masonic philosophy, particularly within the Scottish Rite system. The Way of the Her
S2E2: A Path to Providence - Part 2 of 2
In this episode, David and Gene delve into the world of esoteric Freemasonry with their esteemed guests, Worshipful Brother Ben Wallace and Most Worshipful Brother Shaun Bradshaw. As authors of the book "A Path to Providence", Shaun and Ben share their inspiring journey in reviving the mystery school roots of Freemasonry through the establishment of groundbreaking esoteric education prog
S2E1: A Path to Providence - Part 1 of 2
In this first episode of the second season of the “Way of the Hermit” podcast we are “tying up loose ends” left over from last season. In this first part of our two-part season opener, we are looking at the book “A Path to Providence: The Creation of the Middle Chamber Program.”The Way of the Hermit Podcast: https://www.wayofthehermit.comIn "A Path to Providence", authors Shaun Bradshaw
Scottish Rite: Epilogue
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In the podcast, the evolution of the Square and Compass, the primary symbol of the "Blue Lodge," is examined after the hosts' journey through the Scottish Rite degrees. It is now seen as a more profound representation, with the Compass over the Square symbolizing Spirit r
32nd Degree: Master of the Royal Secret
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In this episode, the intricate details of the Degree Ritual and its profound symbolism are explored, shedding light on the culmination of Masonic teachings. The ritual, set against the backdrop of the Vernal Equinox, serves as a symbolic journey through the Scottish Rite degrees, leadin
31st Degree: Inspector Inquisitor
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In the heart of the episode, the mythological setting of the Egyptian "Hall of Judgment" from the Book of the Dead is explored, serving as the backdrop for the degree ritual. This setting is not just a mere stage but a profound allegory for the final judgment, a theme resonant
30th Degree: Knight Kadosh
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In the episode, the historical context of the Knights Templar's fall and the execution of their Grandmaster, Jacques de Molay, is examined, revealing the financial might that led to their downfall by King Philip IV of France and Pope Clement V. The degree ritual is described as a s
29th Degree: Knight of Saint Andrew
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In this episode, the rich symbolism and rituals of the "Scottish Knight of Saint Andrew" degree in Freemasonry are explored in depth. The Saint Andrew’s Cross, an equal-armed x-shaped cross, is identified as the main symbol of the degree, with its presence in the ritual space
28th Degree: Knight of the Sun - Part 3 of 3
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In the episode, the exploration of light and darkness as primary metaphors in "The Mysteries" is revisited, with a deep dive into the symbolic significance of these elements across various religious and mythological contexts. The unity underlying apparent dualities is emphasiz
28th Degree: Knight of the Sun - Part 2 of 3
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In the episode, the depth and complexity of the 28th Degree - Knight of the Sun are explored, revealing its position as a distillation of the entire Scottish Rite system. The discussion begins with Albert Pike's Christian interpretation of the Blue Lodge Degrees, which symbolizes t
28th Degree: Knight of the Sun - Part 1 of 3
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In the episode, a comprehensive examination of the "Knight of the Sun" degree's Ritual, both in its original and revised forms, is undertaken, revealing significant philosophical and symbolic depth. The revised Ritual, simplified for modern practice, is described as featu
27th Degree: Knight Commander of the Temple
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In the episode, the intricate rituals and profound symbolism of the "Knight Commander of the Temple" degree are explored, revealing a ceremony steeped in historical reverence and moral testing. The degree, originating from the siege of St. Jean d'Acre, is depicted as a tr
26th Degree: Prince of Mercy
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In the exploration of the third and final Degree dedicated to the Greater Mysteries, a profound journey through the symbolism and progression of the Mystery Degrees is undertaken. The discussion delves into the intricate teachings and secrets reserved for the final degree, where the gra
25th Degree: Knight of the Brazen Serpent
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This episode marks a significant shift from the previous degree's focus on Jewish Mysteries, in that it delves into the teachings and traditions of Islamic mysticism, emphasizing the importance of inward purification and personal sacrifice to establish a covenant with God. The ritu
24th Degree: Prince of the Tabernacle
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This degree is associated with the Greater Mysteries, following the "Chief of the Tabernacle" degree, and its timing is linked to the Jewish festival of Sukkot, also known as the "Feast of Tabernacles."David and Gene discuss the ritualistic aspects of the degree, and
23rd Degree: Chief of the Tabernacle
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This degree begins with a journey back to the biblical era of Moses and the construction of the Tabernacle in the wilderness, a structure that symbolizes the universe and reflects the Hermetic principle of "As Above, So Below." This allegorical representation serves as a found
22nd Degree: Knight Royal Axe
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In this episode, Gene and David first discuss the Degree Ritual, a ceremony with roots tracing back to the Crusaders' interactions with the Druze, a mystical Islamic sect from Lebanon. This ritual, set in the Middle Ages, involves a candidate assuming the role of a Prussian Knight,
21st Degree: Prussian Knight
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In this episode, Gene and David delve into the 21st Degree’s dark and strange Degree Ritual, which is based on the secret medieval German tribunal, the Vehmgericht or "Holy Vehm".The Vehmgericht was an extra-legal but efficient criminal tribunal that emerged in Westphalia near
20th Degree: Master of the Symbolic Lodge
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This degree is characterized by its simplicity and focus on the fundamental principles of Masonry. The ritual involves a straightforward lecture on symbols, with an emphasis on personal interpretation rather than elaborate drama. The degree uses classic Masonic symbols such as squares,
19th Degree: Grand Pontiff
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This degree is the first in the "Council of Kadosh," a series of "Chivalric" degrees, and discuss the mystical and philosophical nature of these degrees, as well as the meaning of the term "Kadosh," a Hebrew word often translated as "holy" but mor
18th Degree: Knight Rose Croix
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This episode delves into the capstone Degree of the "Chapter of Rose Croix", which reveals the "Secret of the Reconciliation of Opposites". David and Gene discuss the three "apartments" or scenes that the candidate is taken through in the "Ritual of t
17th Degree: Knight of the East and West
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.The ritual of the degree involves a narrative drawn from the New Testament, featuring a confrontation between King Herod II and John the Baptist, symbolizing the dangers of pride and sin, and emphasizing spiritual aspirations over worldly gains. The purpose of the degree is highlighted
16th Degree: Prince of Jerusalem
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This episode explores the mythological and historical context of the "Prince of Jerusalem" degree, which begins with the story of Zerubbabel, a direct descendant of David and Solomon, who is entrusted by God to return the "holy fire" to the new temple in Jerusalem,
15th Degree: Knight of the East
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com. This is the first degree of the "Chapter of Rose Croix," which is composed of the 15th through the 18th degrees. The goal of these degrees is to reveal the solution of one of the great enigmas of Nature and the manifested world - the "Secret of the Reconciliation of Oppo
14th Degree: Perfect Elu
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This episode explores the 14th Degree of the "Lodge of Perfection" - "Perfect Elu." The episode begins with a brief recap of the Royal Arch of Solomon Degree, highlighting Enoch's efforts to preserve the "True Name of God" amidst a forewarned calamity.
13th Degree: Royal Arch of Solomon
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In this episode, Gene and David, delve into the myth of the Royal Arch of Solomon degree, focusing on the Biblical Patriarch Enoch. In Enoch's dream, God reveals his "True Name" and shows him a vault of nine arched chambers, with the last one containing a triangular plate
12th Degree: Master Architect
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This episode discusses the 12th Degree of the Scottish Rite, exploring themes of leadership, morality, and the philosophical underpinnings of Masonic teachings. The degree ritual centers around the promotion of Adoniram to Chief Architect, symbolizing the elevation of the wise and able
11th Degree: Elu of the Twelve
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This episode delves into the 11th Degree of the Scottish Rite, "Elu of the Twelve." It explores the symbolism of the trial and judgment of the Ruffians, highlighting the themes of truth, fidelity, and moral virtues as outlined in Freemasonic teachings. The discussion also cove
10th Degree: Elu of the Fifteen
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This episode explores the 10th Degree of the Scottish Rite, "Elu of the Fifteen". The episode begins with a discussion of the mythological setting, where Solomon forms a group of fifteen men to bring justice to the murderers of Hiram Abiff. The episode delves into the teaching
9th Degree: Elu of the Nine
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In this episode, we explore the 9th Degree of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry - "Elu of the Nine", and discuss its ceremonial narrative, the capture of the ruffians involved in Hiram Abiff's murder. This degree addresses the need for personal self-control, for rebuking
8th Degree: Intendant of the Building
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This episode provides an in-depth analysis of the 8th Degree in the Scottish Rite, "Intendant of the Building." Set in the period after Hiram's death, the narrative of the degree revolves around the challenges faced in continuing the construction of King Solomon's Te
7th Degree: Provost and Judge
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This podcast episode explores the 7th Degree of the Scottish Rite, "Provost and Judge," focusing on themes of judgment, fairness, and self-reflection. The narrative of the degree is set in the time of King Solomon and revolves around the characters Uriah, Naboth, and Zabud. It
6th Degree: Intimate Secretary
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This episode delves into the symbolic and moral teachings of the 6th Degree - "Intimate Secretary" in the Scottish Rite system. It's story revolves around the characters King Solomon, King Hiram, and Zabud. The key themes of this degree are: peacemaking, disinterested ben
5th Degree: Perfect Master
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In this episode, the virtues of industry and honesty are explored through the lens of the Perfect Master degree, with a particular emphasis on moral conduct in both personal and business matters. The symbolism of bees is used to underscore the importance of staying busy and avoiding idl
4th Degree: Secret Master
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In the "Way of the Hermit" podcast episode, the Scottish Rite Degree System is dissected, revealing its structure of four bodies, each with distinct themes and teachings. The first body, "The Lodge of Perfection," is discussed, focusing on the 4th through the 14th de
3rd Degree: Master Mason
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In this podcast, the significance of symbols in religious expression is explored, with the assertion that all language is symbolic and that the true objects of religion are unseen. The discussion acknowledges that symbols are often confused with the things they represent, and it is sugg
2nd Degree: Fellowcraft
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In the episode, the symbolism inherent in the Fellowcraft Degree of Freemasonry is delved into, with a particular emphasis on the nature of symbolism itself. It is highlighted that symbols serve as a bridge to the unconscious mind, offering problems for contemplation rather than explici
1st Degree: Entered Apprentice
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.In the podcast episode, the moral lessons of the "Entered Apprentice" degree are explored, emphasizing that Freemasonry is not a religion but a system of morality and philosophy. It is highlighted that Masonry requires a belief in a higher power, and prayer is discussed as a f
Introduction to the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry
Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.This is the first episode of a series in which we discuss the 32 degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. This episode provides an introduction to the Blue Lodge of Freemasonry, the Scottish Rite and the author of "Morals and Dogma", Albert Pike. It
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