Let's Talk Religion
This podcast aims to educate on the subject of religion from an academic perspective and to open up for informed discussions on the subject. You will find episodes discussing the big religions of the world and historical overviews of important figures from different religious traditions.
Episodes
Satan in Sufism
Iblis (Satan) refused to bow to Adam, and the Qur’an condemns him for it. But some of the most daring Sufi mystics read that refusal very differently: as the act of a perfect monotheist and a tragic lover who would not bow to anything but God, even at the cost of eternal separation. In this video we explore how Iblis was reinterpreted in Islamic mysticism, from Mansur al-Hallaj’s Kitab al-Tawasin
Anqa - Arabic Folklore's Most Elusive Creature
What is the Anqa? In this episode we explore the Anqa (عنقاء), the elusive, legendary bird of Arabic and Islamic tradition, often compared to the phoenix and the Persian Simurgh. We look at its origins in pre-Islamic Arabian lore, the story of how it vanished from the world, and how "the Anqa of the West" (ʿanqāʾ mughrib) became a proverb for something that exists in name but can never b
Alchemy in the Islamic World
In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of alchemy in the Islamic(ate) world, from the writings of Jabir ibn Hayyan, to the Emerald Tablet, Abu Bakr al-Razi & the Sufis. Music by: Filip Holm Find me and my music here: https://linktr.ee/filipholm Support Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/tal
'The Religion of Love' - Ibn 'Arabi's Most Famous Poem
Ibn 'Arabi's famous "Religion of Love" verses are some of the most striking lines in Islamic mysticism - a declaration that the heart can take the form of every temple, church, and shrine. In this episode, we do a deep dive into the poem itself, its context in the Tarjuman al-Ashwaq, and what it reveals about Ibn 'Arabi's views on love, God, and universality in Sufi thoug
The House of Wisdom (Bayt al-Hikma) in Baghdad
The House of Wisdom (Bayt al-Hikma) is one of the most mythologized institutions in history, but what do the actual medieval sources say? In this video, we separate legend from evidence, tracing what the House of Wisdom really was in Abbasid Baghdad & what role it played in the translation movement.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: ht
Women in the Life and Thought of Ibn Arabi
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.
John Scotus Eriugena & The Division of Nature
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 C
The Talmud Explained (w. Zevi Slavin)
In this episode, Zevi and I explore what the Talmud is, what it is not, and the role it plays in the Jewish religion.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Porphyry On The Cave of the Nymphs in Homer's Odyssey
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, it
The History of "Hare Krishna" (Gaudiya Vaishnavism)
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 theo
Rabi'a - Mystic, Saint, and the Mother of Sufi Love
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 a
Religion in Ancient Greece
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondon
The Lost Suras of the Quran?
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donati
Mazdak & Mazdakism - Ancient Persian Communism?
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal
Atlantis of the Sands - The Legend of the Lost City of Arabia
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 HolmFind me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's
Abd al-Malik - The Caliph Who Shaped Islam?
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?Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com
The Islamic Idealism of Ibn 'Arabi
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), imagin
al-Ghazali, Ibn 'Arabi & The Sufi School of Love | w. Omid Safi
Find Omid here:Instagram: brotheromidAnd Illuminated Tours/Courses:https://www.illuminatedcourses.comFind me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: letstalkreligionOr through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateAlso check out the 'Let's Talk Religion' Youtube channel: Let's Talk Religion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for m
The Sufi School of Love
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's T
Zurvanism - The Zoroastrian Heresy?
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.Check out Soul Roots:https://www.youtube.co
Abu Zayd al-Balkhi - The Man Who Discovered Mental Health 1,000 Years Too Early
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.Fin
Nicholas of Cusa: Life & Philosophy
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.
What is Taqqiyya?
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/
What is Sharia Law, Really?
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/Recom
Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani & The Qadiri Sufi Order
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
What is Alchemy?
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or th
What Is a Ghoul? (The Terrifying Monster of Arabian Myth)
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.Find me and my musi
The Sabians of Harran: A Lost Religion
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion O
Who were the Sabians? - The Lost Religion of the Quran
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)Find me and my music here:h
Who are the Druze?
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/Rec
Who are the Jesuits?
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,
Thomas Aquinas - the Greatest Christian Philosopher?
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/Recomended Reading
The Amalricians - Pantheist Christianity?
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 th
What is Pantheism?
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patre
What is Jihad?
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
Who are the Augustinians?
Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/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 Institut
Was Alcohol Always Forbidden in Islam?
Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/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
Nasir al-din al-Tusi: The Greatest Islamic Astronomer?
Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/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)
What is the Bektashi Order?
Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateAlso check out the Let's Talk Religion Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ih4sqtWv0wRIhS6HFgerb?si=95b07d83d0254bSources/Recomended Reading:Elsie, Robert (2019). "The Albanian Bektashi: History
Is Islam a Western Religion?
Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/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".
Sri Ramakrishna & Universal Vedanta
We explore one of the most influential and significant Hindu figures in modern times.Written by Anmol KohliCo-written by myself (Filip Holm)Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/Recomended Reading:Swami Saradananda, Sri Ramakris
The Book of the Holy Hierotheos
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.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligio
Religion in Ancient Egypt
In this episode, we try to get a basic overview of the religion that was practiced in Ancient Egypt.Find me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/talkreligiondonateSources/Recomended Reading:Assmann, Jan (2001). "The Search for God in Ancient Egypt". Translated
Pseudo-Dionysius: The Father of Mysticism?
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.n
Inayat Khan & Universal Sufism
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 K
Picatrix (Ghayat al-Hakim): The World's Most Famous Book of Magic?
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 ou
Satanism, Feminism & The Occult | Per Faxneld
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/PerFaxneldFind me and my music here:https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: https://paypal.m
The History of Halloween
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".
What is Satanism?
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 publicat
The History of Vampires
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/Recomen
Yurei - Japanese Ghosts & Hauntings
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 i
The Spooky History of Ghosts
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
Zar: Spirit Possession Rituals in Egypt
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
Jinn Possession in the Islamic World
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 Sp
The Ethiopian Orthodox (Tewahedo) Church
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
al-Hallaj: Mystic Martyr of Sufism
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
Porphyry, Vegetarianism & Animal Sacrifice in Antiquity
Check out my linktree to find our new song, socials & more: https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion 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=95b07d83d0254bSources/Recomended Reading:Cl
Xuanzang & The Journey to the West
Check out my linktree to find our new song, socials & more: https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion 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=95b07d83d0254bSources/Recomended Reading:Br
Yoga & Islam
Check out my linktree to find our new singe, socials & more: https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-time donation: 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 ". N
Seidr - Norse Mystical Practice?
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/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstalkreligion Or through a one-t
What is Yoga?
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".
Fusus al-Hikam (The Bezels of Wisdom) - Ibn Arabi's Controversial Masterpiece
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
Hypatia & The Death of Classical Antiquity
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.Check out my linktree for socials, music & more: https://linktr.ee/filipholmSupport Let's Talk Religion on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/letstal
Fazlallah Astarabadi & Islamic Lettrism
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 Gruyte
Ibn Sina (Avicenna) - The Greatest Muslim Philosopher?
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 o
Dune, Islam & Religion
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: Belief
Qalandariyya - The Muslim Hippies Who Drank Wine?
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 Ara
Who are the Zaydis?
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. Stat
Emir Abd el-Kader - The Sufi Muslim Warrior Who Protected Christians
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: Bo
What is Zoroastrianism?
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.Sour
Mysticism in Ancient Greece?
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 imagin
What is Jewish Mysticism?
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
Christmas with Meister Eckhart: Sermon 3
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Christmas with Meister Eckhart: Sermon 2
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Christmas with Meister Eckhart: Sermon 4
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Arianism, Heresy & The Council of Nicea
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 (201
What is the Gospel of Philip?
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 Christ
What is Christian Mysticism?
Sources/Recomended Reading: Gendle, Nicholas (translated by) (1982). "Gregory Palamas: The Triads". In the "Classics of Western Spirituality Series". Paulist Press. Greer, Rowan A. (1979). "Origen: Selected Writings". Classics of Western Spirituality. Paulist Press. Hart, Columba (translated by) (1980). "Hadewijch: Complete Works". Classics of Western Spirituality Series. Paulist Press. Laird, Mar
The Nordic Religion of Nature
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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Rumi - The Most Famous Sufi Poet in the World
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/@safamirrorSources/Rec
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