Gregory Shaw joins Edge of Mind with a rare and insightful glimpse into the profound wisdom traditions of Western esotericism. Too often, spiritual seekers in the West feel they must look to the East to find depth and authenticity in their practices. However, this dialogue between Andrew and Gregory powerfully demonstrates the richness and relevance of the Neoplatonist and theurgic lineages that are foundational to the Western philosophical and mystical canon.
Listeners will be captivated by the scholar’s ability to draw parallels between these ancient Greek teachings and the transformative practices of Eastern tantra. Concepts like alignment, embodiment, and the role of the “daimon” or divine presence within the soul are explored with nuance and clarity. This cross-pollination of ideas not only expands one’s understanding of both traditions, but also points the way towards an integrative spirituality that can help address the fragmentation and disconnection so pervasive in the modern world.
Whether one is already steeped in Neoplatonism or new to this rich vein of Western esotericism, this podcast offers a rare opportunity to learn from two brilliant thinkers who are deeply immersed in these lineages. The discussion is sure to inspire listeners to delve deeper into the wisdom that has been present in their own cultural heritage all along, waiting to be rediscovered and brought to life.
About Gregory Shaw, PhD
Gregory Shaw is Professor of Religious Studies at Stonehill College, Massachusetts. He is the author of Theurgy and the Soul: The Neoplatonism of Iamblichus and a number of articles on the later Neoplatonists and on Iamblichus in particular. He is currently working on a manuscript that explores the embodied aspects of later Platonic philosophy and its similarity to the tantric traditions of South Asia. The theurgical Platonism of Iamblichus presents a radically non-dual vision of reality at odds with our usual way of understanding Platonism.
Inside the Podcast
Introduction to Gregory Shaw and his work
Understanding the concept of theogia (divine action) and its historical context
Alignment and misalignment in spiritual practices
The role of incubation and darkness in spiritual practices
Facing fear and embracing the darkness
The concept of the Socratic Daimon
The role of astrology in alignment
The importance of practical engagement in spiritual practices
The role of writing as a spiritual practice
The interconnectedness of expansion and contraction