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The twenty-second saying of Jesus in the Gospel of Thomas is the clearest example of Christian nonduality that we have in any gospel. Some of these metaphors in this passage are familiar to us from other sayings in the Gospel of Thomas, as well as similar sayings in the canonical gospels. Others we have not come across before. Jesus saw some babies nursing. He said to his disciples, "These nursing babies are like those who enter the kingdom." They said to him, "Then shall we enter the kingdom as babies?" Jesus said to them, "When you make the two into one, and when you make the inner like the outer and the outer like the inner, and the upper like the lower, and when you make male and female into a single one, so that the male will not be male nor the female be female, when you make eyes in place of an eye, a hand in place of a hand, a foot in place of a foot, an image in place of an image, then you will enter the kingdom."View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU
This episode is on the 21st saying in the Gospel of Thomas. I will read it for you: Mary said to Jesus, "Whom are your disciples like?" He said, "They are like children who have settled in a field which is not theirs. When the owners of the field come, they will say, 'Let us have back our field.' They (will) undress in their presence in order to let them have back their field and to give it back to them. Therefore I say, if the owner of a house knows that the thief is coming, he will begin his vigil before he comes and will not let him dig through into his house of his domain to carry away his goods. You, then, be on your guard against the world. Arm yourselves with great strength lest the robbers find a way to come to you, for the difficulty which you expect will (surely) materialize. Let there be among you a man of understanding. When the grain ripened, he came quickly with his sickle in his hand and reaped it. Whoever has ears to hear, let him hear." View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU
The twentieth saying of Jesus in the Gospel of Thomas is one that is familiar to Christians who have read the canonical gospels. It is known as the parable of the Mustard Seed. Thomas' version goes like this:The disciples said to Jesus, "Tell us what the kingdom of Heaven is like." He said to them, "It's like a mustard seed, the smallest of all seeds, but when it falls on prepared soil, it produces a large plant and becomes a shelter for birds of heaven."At first hearing it may sound identical to the New Testament parable. But listen again. Here is the version found in the Gospel of Luke. Pay attention to the differences.Then Jesus asked, “What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to? It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds perched in its branches.”They sound similar, but the small differences make a big difference. Let's look at the differences and what they teach us about the Kingdom of Heaven, which is Jesus' term for Divine Awareness.View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU
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 us - a spiritual conception or “virgin birth” (Saying 70). They interpret Jesus' saying about the destruction of the "house" (Saying 71) as referring to a personal apocalypse of Gnosis, an irreversible transformation of one's worldview. Jesus's refusal to be a "divider" of possessions (Saying 72) highlights the spiritual realm's inherent unity and the need to integrate the divided aspects of the self.Further discussion touches on the rarity of those undertaking the spiritual harvest (Saying 73) and the tendency to seek fulfillment externally in "empty wells" instead of looking within (Saying 74). The "solitary ones" who are allowed entry to the "wedding hall" (Saying 75) are presented as those who have achieved inner wholeness, akin to the "Chemical Wedding" in alchemy.David and Gene explore Jesus speaking as the omnipresent Logos ("I am the All," Saying 77), touching upon pan-psychism and the need to look beyond the surface of reality. They contrast seeking external validation (Saying 78, 91) with the necessity of internal realization and trusting inner authority.The hosts delve into the hidden nature of consciousness (Saying 83) and the profound challenge of confronting our divine archetypal "likeness" - “our original face before we were born.” (Saying 84). They discuss how the divine pattern must be tried through the fire of earthly life (Saying 85), and how the "Son of Man" finding "no place to rest" (Saying 86) as symbolic of humanity's hybrid nature, caught between two worlds.The episode concludes by examining the spiral nature of spiritual seeking, where readiness dictates understanding (Saying 92), and how reflecting on, and engaging with these profound sayings is itself a transformative process.Deep Dive:The Gospel of ThomasChapters:01:15 Introduction01:41 Review03:10 Sayings 70-7207:25 Sayings 73-7512:18 Sayings 76-7816:39 Sayings 79-8118:54 Sayings 82-8423:50 Sayings 85-8728:23 Sayings 88-9031:34 Sayings 91-9234:34 ConclusionsResources:The Gospel of Thomas (history and various translations - Gnosis.org)Gospel of Thomas (Patterson and Robinson translation)Gnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesJesus and the Lost Goddess: The Secret Teachings of the Original Christians by Freke and GandyYou're Not the Observer—You're the Observed (YouTube)Lateralus - Tool (Spotify)
In the latest episode of GoT Presents, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Akira Kwon, the current holder of the MLW Middleweight Championship. Fresh off the excitement of WrestleMania, the conversation flowed seamlessly from the highs and lows of wrestling to personal growth and the journey that brought Akira to where he is today.Akira's story is one of resilience and determination. He shared how he fell in love with wrestling at a young age and how life experiences, including challenges and setbacks, shaped his path. After promising his mother he would complete his education, he took the plunge into wrestling training, a decision that would lead him to the ring.Throughout the episode, Akira opened up about the rigorous training process he underwent, including the unique environment of training in an MMA gym. This setting not only honed his wrestling skills but also instilled a deep respect for the craft. His journey has not been without its struggles; he candidly discussed the injuries he faced and how they affected his career trajectory.As a new father, Akira reflected on how fatherhood has changed his perspective on life and wrestling. He emphasized the importance of balancing personal life with professional aspirations and how his experiences have made him more empathetic towards others in similar situations.Listeners will also find valuable insights into the wrestling industry, including the significance of maintaining authenticity and the importance of quality over quantity in matches. Akira's advice on navigating the wrestling world is both inspiring and practical, making this episode a must-listen for fans and aspiring wrestlers alike.
Today I am looking at the nineteenth saying of Jesus in the Gospel of Thomas. Jesus said, "Blessed is he who came into being before he came into being. If you become my disciples and listen to my words, these stones will minister to you. For there are five trees in paradise for you. Summer or winter they do not change and their leaves do not fall. Whoever knows them will not taste death." This saying naturally breaks down into the segments. First is a beatitude. Then there is the statement about the stones. And third is the enigmatic saying about the Trees of Paradise. All three have echoes in the canonical gospels. Once again the Gospel of Thomas gives us new insights into the New Testament sayings. View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU
In this episode we look at the 18th saying of Jesus in the Gospel of Thomas. “The disciples said to Jesus, ‘Tell us how our end will be.' Jesus said, ‘Have you discovered the beginning, that you look for the end? For where the beginning is, there will the end be. Blessed is he who will take his place in the beginning; he will know the end and will not experience death.'" View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU
In this engaging episode of GOT Presents the Gospel of Thomas, hosts Thomas and Jeff welcome the charismatic Steve Off to discuss his journey in the wrestling world and beyond. From his experiences in the ring to his upcoming documentary project "Heavy Healing," Steve shares insights into how heavy music can be a source of strength for those facing mental and physical challenges. The conversation delves into the nuances of wrestling promotions, the significance of character development, and the humor found in the wrestling community. With anecdotes about celebrity encounters and discussions on pop culture, including the complexities of horror films and the nuances of music genres, this episode is a delightful blend of wrestling talk and personal stories. Don't miss Steve's unique perspective on the wrestling scene and his passion for creativity in all forms!00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:15 Meet Steve Off03:30 Wrestling Journey and Promotions10:00 Heavy Healing Documentary Discussion15:45 Celebrity Encounters and Hollywood Stories20:30 The Wrestling Community and Humor25:00 Music Genres Explained30:15 Horror Films and Their Impact35:00 Insights on Character Development in Wrestling40:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans45:00 How to Follow Steve Off and Pro Wrestling Magic
In this episode we look at Easter through the eyes of the apostle Thomas as found in the Gospel of Thomas. I contrast it with the canonical view of this apostle as “Doubting Thomas” as depicted in the famous story in the Gospel of John. We find that Thomas – like the apostle Paul - had an understanding of the resurrection of Jesus as a spiritual experience that is beyond the physical senses and beyond the human mind to understand. In this episode I mention my book “The Evolution of Easter: How the Historical Jesus Became the Risen Christ.” Here is the link: https://www.amazon.com/EVOLUTION-EASTER-Historical-Became-Christ/dp/1983077143/ View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU
In this episode, we welcome the larger-than-life Ben Bishop, who brings his unique perspective on the world of wrestling and sports. Join us as we dive into everything from college basketball to the intricacies of independent wrestling, all while sharing laughs and insights on the wrestling community. Ben shares his experiences and thoughts on the current state of the industry, while also reflecting on his journey through the wrestling world. Don't miss this entertaining and insightful conversation!Chapters:(00:00) Thomas will be the new MLW world heavyweight champion(03:42) People say I'm getting cooked because I disagreed with Dave Meltzer(04:19) Haku's wrestling connection right now is Rad Pro Wrestling(16:08) With nil and transfer portal, there is no way John Morant stayed at Murray State(17:36) Billy only bets every day on baseball exclusively. Baseball is one of the most frustrating sports to gamble on(20:20) Do you think someone will eventually break Barry Bonds home run record(23:56) The Yankees used torpedo bats in spring training, but no one noticed(25:55) Vermont is quirky. (28:42) Akron Zips are the only D1 basketball team with female mascots(36:12) Why is Vermont always the safety zone in dystopian apocalyptic films(38:41) Is Vermont really an actual place? People say it's not(41:20) MLW makes every episode in six days. I learned that from South Park(44:50) Not many people do this. Let's just put it in wrestling terms, right(48:12) There's some wrestlers that pander to the IWC a little too much(48:51) What's your favorite console and why is it PlayStation 2(49:05) Thomas: I judge consoles by how they made me feel at that time(52:07) You are actually bigger than Thomas. And you are doing indies. How do you get around when traveling(54:47) Are there promotions which you're sort of your regulars at every month(57:53) Riddle says wrestlers should respect each other in locker rooms(58:48) A.J. francis is rehabilitating his public image(01:02:43) What's your masters in? Industrial Organizational Psychology(01:08:40) You know, Gravedigger's gonna win, brother. You know it. And what was the other thing on Spike or TNN(01:14:29) I'm always looking for someone to squash in about 15 seconds
In this episode we are looking at the sixteenth saying of Jesus in the Gospel of Thomas. Jesus said, “People think, perhaps, that I have come to throw peace upon the world. They don't know that I have come to throw disagreement upon the world, and fire, and sword, and struggle. There will be five in one house. Three will oppose two. Two will oppose three. The father will oppose his son and the son oppose his father. And they will stand up and they will be alone.” This saying has a parallel in the Gospel of Matthew. By comparing the two we can see differences and discover the uniqueness of Thomas' version, which teaches Christian nonduality.View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU
In this episode of Garden of Thought, we welcome the dynamic April Hunter, who shares her unique experiences and thoughts on a variety of intriguing topics. From her adventures in wrestling to her insights on psychedelics and the current state of the world, this episode is packed with engaging conversations. Join us as we explore the intersection of entertainment, personal growth, and the complexities of modern life!Chapters:(00:00) Garden of Thought presents the Gospel of Thomas with April Hunter(03:21) Thomas: I love doing mushrooms and going to Monster Jam(05:54) April: I think words can actually create our realities(10:16) Asked me about medicinal mushrooms and alternate medicine(18:56) A First Amendment constitutional protection to do it(19:25) There was a show called Carmen Alexa's Naked Wrestling(24:44) You gave up modeling to work for WCW or WWE(30:18) Favorite gyms in Tampa and then favorite gyms nationwide(36:44) Flash mobs were created when social media was used to bring people together(38:24) I think there's a globalist agenda behind climate change and other issues(52:57) Let's talk about best, worst restaurants in Tampa(56:35) Are you involved with any wrestling stuff these days? (01:03:09) Bringing back commercials into streaming is a disservice(01:07:55) Where can we find you outside of the A show
Today we look at the fifteenth saying in the Gospel of Thomas. It is a short, but important saying. Jesus says, "When you see one who was not born of woman, fall on your faces and worship. That one is your Father." I look at both the “not born of woman” part, and the use of the word Father. Father is one of Jesus' favorite words for Nondual Reality. View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU
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 themes of spiritual unity, overcoming duality, and the transformative nature of self-realization.Their discussion begins with Saying 47, which uses a variety of vivid metaphors to illustrate the need for overcoming the dualities within ourselves and the means by which we can reconcile old cognitive frameworks with new spiritual truths. Sayings 48-49 emphasize achieving harmony within oneself and creating an internal sacred space for introspection. David and Gene interpret these teachings as a call to overcome internal duality and embrace wholeness, drawing parallels to esoteric traditions like the "Sacred Marriage" and Jungian individuation.Sayings 50-52 delve into the origins of light in the Gnostic tradition, the cyclical nature of existence, and esoteric meaning of "death" and "resurrection." The hosts unpack these teachings with references to Gnostic cosmology, emphasizing the importance of inner awareness over external rituals or authorities.The discussion continues with Sayings 53-55, which contrast external religious practices with inner spiritual work. Themes of detachment from societal conditioning and cultivating spiritual poverty emerge as essential steps toward true enlightenment.Sayings 56-58 explore the transient nature of the material world, the value of struggle in spiritual growth, and the importance of discernment in timing one's personal transformation. The episode concludes with Sayings 59-69, which address the urgency of seeking truth, protecting one's spiritual vitality from lower distractions, recognizing true authority, and maintaining connection with divine wisdom despite worldly persecution. Throughout their discussion, David and Gene attempt to bring clarity to these ancient teachings, revealing how they speak directly to the modern seeker's quest for self-knowledge. Deep Dive:The Gospel of ThomasChapters:01:15 Introduction01:41 Review03:06 Saying 4707:02 Sayings 48-4910:09 Sayings 50-5213:22 Sayings 53-5517:02 Sayings 56-5820:14 Sayings 59-6124:22 Sayings 62-6428:03 Sayings 65-6732:00 Sayings 68-6935:07 ConclusionsResources:The Gospel of Thomas (history and various translations - Gnosis.org)Gospel of Thomas (Patterson and Robinson translation)Gnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesThe Red Book: A Reader's Edition by Carl JungJesus and the Lost Goddess: The Secret Teachings of the Original Christians by Freke and Gandy
In this episode, we journey through the fascinating world of professional wrestling with veteran wrestler and podcaster Casey Thompson. Join us as Casey shares his experiences from the ring, his insights on the wrestling business, and his journey into podcasting. We also discuss the importance of enhancement talent, the evolution of wrestling promotions, and the behind-the-scenes dynamics that shape the industry. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with stories, wisdom, and a touch of humor!Chapters:(01:48) We also have, co host Lufisto(02:46) Tell us a little bit about your wrestling career and obviously about the podcast(08:42) In ring Wrestling podcast was created by (13:19) You said you're a promoter too and then you switch to podcasting(18:33) You take Jerry Lynn. His stuff's real. I mean, it's basically the same thing(21:39) To this day, I still get confused between Sheikh Adnan (22:49) What's the best breakfast joint in Philly? (27:33) There's such a gap between being a wrestler and being a promoter(32:15) I had confidence in my ability, so I didn't care, and I did it(33:15) You said you bought a promotion in Canada and moved it to Florida(35:50) How is it about getting a wrestling license in Florida?(42:01) You said WWE paid for the car (48:10) I reformatted everything and used local guys that I didn't have to bring in(49:22) You say you think you're an insider, but you're not an insider(50:40) How much did they say they made?(59:07) The main event's the most important match on the card,(01:01:10) As time went by, people started to fly themselves there and hoping for bookings(01:07:46) Like every matches needs to be different. You need to bring a product that's different(01:11:35) Is your promotion still going? (01:18:32) Script King rx. com offers discounts on prescription drugs(01:22:13) Yingling podcast features guest Casey Thompson from In Ring Wrestling podcast
In this episode we look at the fourteenth saying in the Gospel of Thomas.Jesus said to them, "If you fast, you will give rise to sin for yourselves; and if you pray, you will be condemned; and if you give alms, you will do harm to your spirits. When you go into any land and walk about in the districts, if they receive you, eat what they will set before you, and heal the sick among them. For what goes into your mouth will not defile you, but that which issues from your mouth - it is that which will defile you."This saying deals with the issue of religion, and in particular religious practices or disciplines. Jesus previously dealt with this subject in part in the sixth saying. Here in the fourteenth saying, Jesus goes deeper into the topic of spiritual practices. He mentions the same four practices of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving and diet. But in this saying he emphasizes the dangers inherent in religious practices. View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU
Outlandish Conversations with Zicky Dice | The Gospel of ThomasIn this episode of Garden of Thought, hosts Thomas and Jeff interview the outlandish Zicky Dice. Discussions range from Dice's upcoming charity event at MomoCon to his love for Korean BBQ and Marvel rivals. Dice also shares hilarious and intense stories of his gambling experiences and his life as a professional wrestler. The episode takes a deeper dive into Dice's dogs, his past as a musician, plans for more wrestling events, and the unique crowd at MomoCon. With anecdotes about rivalries, wrestling rumors, and wild fan interactions, this episode is packed with insightful and entertaining content.00:00 Introduction and Previous Episode Recap00:14 Meet the Outlandish Zicky Dice01:41 Gambling Stories and Confessions09:03 Big Event Announcement: Outlandish Paradise at Momo Con11:35 Wrestling at Momo Con: Highlights and Challenges16:40 The Evolution of Wrestling Shows20:00 The Essence of Championship Wrestling21:16 The Bulldog Chronicles23:07 Wrestling Adventures in the Dominican Republic24:31 The Infamous Black Craft Wrestling Match26:54 Musical Journeys and Wrestling Dreams31:22 Food Talk and Korean Barbecue Confessions33:21 Shakespeare, Occult, and Wrestling Connections34:53 Band and Wrestling Crossover Ideas
Today we look at the thirteenth saying in the Gospel of Thomas. “Jesus said to his disciples, "Compare me to someone and tell me whom I am like." Simon Peter said to him, "You are like a righteous angel." Matthew said to him, "You are like a wise philosopher." Thomas said to him, "Master, my mouth is wholly incapable of saying whom you are like." Jesus said, "I am not your master. Because you have drunk, you have become intoxicated from the bubbling spring which I have measured out." And he took him and withdrew and told him three things. When Thomas returned to his companions, they asked him, "What did Jesus say to you?" Thomas said to them, "If I tell you one of the things which he told me, you will pick up stones and throw them at me; a fire will come out of the stones and burn you up." This saying in the Gospel of Thomas stands in clear contrast with the famous passage in the canonical gospels where Peter gives his famous confession of faith. The Gospel of Mark says: “Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked them, “Who do people say I am?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.” Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.”In Matthew's gospel Peter gives a longer and more famous answer: “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.”The difference between the canonical and noncanonical accounts is the difference between traditional Christianity and Christian nonduality. View Marshall's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Marshall-Davis/author/B001K8Y0RU
Should we learn about Heaven from the GOSPEL OF THOMAS?
In this episode, we welcome Shazza McKenzie, a professional wrestler who shares her journey from Australia to America. She discusses the challenges of adjusting to life in a new country, the quirks of the American dating scene, and her experiences in the wrestling industry. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of Shazza's adventures, from navigating immigration issues to the joys of discovering St. Louis cuisine. It's a lively conversation filled with laughter, insights, and a touch of nostalgia!Chapters:(00:00) This show always gets its own intro thanks to our friend at Wrestling Soup(00:22) Our special guest this week is Shazza McKenzie from Australia(01:32) Jeff Michaels: We met in America one time 13 years ago(03:02) Where were you two wrestling when you first met(07:30) Shazza shares her experience of moving from Australia to America(16:41) Being a tenant in America is different than being in a tenant Australia(22:53) What's the difference between the dating scenes in America and Australia(26:45) Under no circumstances do you date anyone that buys a ticket to the show(29:08) Have you heard of Australians buying their way into America for a green card(34:12) Your life is consumed by professional wrestling, which is a blessing and a curse(38:54) Who's your support system?(45:47) St. Louis is known for toasted rams and barbecue(48:45) Let's do a little dating show for shaza(50:13) You came up through Ring of Honor dojo in 2009(52:21) You can come up with minimum criteria for contestants, including hygiene(59:03) Thomas: I think it'd be a fun idea to get married in Vegas(59:51) Shazza, what's your schedule? Right. What do you have? What's coming up(01:04:27) Shaza will be promoting MLW Wrestling's Battle Riot 40 on April 5
Today I look at the twelfth saying in the Gospel of Thomas. This saying is different from all the previous ones in that it deals with leadership in the early church. But it also contains some spiritual truth, which we will see in a moment. It reads: “The disciples said to Jesus, ‘We know that you are going to leave us. Who will be our leader?' Jesus said to them, ‘No matter where you are you are to go to James the Just, for whose sake heaven and earth came into being.'"
This is the eleventh saying in the Gospel of Thomas. Listen to what Jesus said: "This heaven will pass away, and the one above it will pass away. The dead are not alive, and the living will not die. In the days when you consumed what is dead, you made it what is alive. When you come to dwell in the light, what will you do? On the day when you were one you became two. But when you become two, what will you do?"This is really a collection of sayings. There are four pairs, but they are all connected. The first one is about two heavens. The second one is about life and death. The third is light and darkness. The fourth is about one and two. I will explore them in these segments.
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 discussing a listener comment about "combining all religions," noting that spiritual unity might indeed be the ultimate goal, as suggested in Ephesians 4:13, where the original Greek terms "Gnosis" (knowledge) and "Pleroma" (fullness) reveal deeper meaning about attaining wholeness through divine knowledge.This section of the Gospel contains powerful teachings about spiritual discernment and self-mastery:Sayings 24-26 emphasize finding inner light rather than seeking externally, loving others as manifestations of the divine, and addressing one's own spiritual blindness before criticizing others.Sayings 27-29 contrast spiritual awareness with material distraction, describing humanity as "drunk" with worldly concerns rather than "thirsty" for self-knowledge, while marveling at how consciousness (great wealth) resides within physical form (poverty).Sayings 30-32 outline the three stages of Gnostic initiation and the importance of consistent spiritual practice in establishing one's character as "a city on a high mountain."Sayings 33-35 explore spiritual discernment, warning against following blind guides while encouraging the sharing of inner wisdom.Sayings 36-41 address detachment from material concerns, the suppression of symbolic readings of sacred texts, and the principle that spiritual understanding multiplies when cultivated.Sayings 42-44 discuss becoming "passers-by" (detached observers), judging teachers by their fruits, and the consequences of acting against one's own experience of truth.Sayings 45-46 conclude with teachings on cultivating positive thoughts and transcending the ego, with John the Baptist representing the consciousness that can see Gnosis as the goal but requires the "final stroke" of ego death to achieve it.Throughout their analysis, David and Gene reveal how these ancient sayings speak to the modern seeker's journey toward self-realization, offering insights into overcoming material attachments, developing spiritual discernment, and achieving wholeness by overcoming the delusion of the false self.Deep Dive:The Gospel of ThomasChapters:01:15 Introduction03:41 Review04:57 Sayings 24-2608:01 Sayings 27-2911:32 Sayings 30-3214:38 Sayings 33-3517:43 Sayings 36-3819:51 Sayings 39-4122:42 Sayings 42-4425:16 Sayings 45-4628:26 ConclusionsResources:The Gospel of Thomas (history and various translations - Gnosis.org)Gospel of Thomas (Patterson and Robinson translation)Gnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesThe Red Book: A Reader's Edition by Carl JungJesus and the Lost Goddess: The Secret Teachings of the Original Christians by Freke and GandyFederico Faggin on Idealism, Quantum Mechanics, Free Will, and Identity
This is the tenth saying in the Gospel of Thomas. Jesus said, "I have cast fire upon the world, and look, I'm guarding it until it blazes." Another translation puts it slightly different: “I have thrown fire upon the world, and look, I am watching till it blazes.” What does this saying in the Gospel of Thomas mean? Spiritual awakening is fire. The world as we know it is consumed as if by fire.
This is the ninth saying in the Gospel of Thomas. Jesus said, "Look, the sower went out, took a handful of seeds, and scattered them. Some fell on the road, and the birds came and gathered them. Others fell on rock, and they didn't take root in the soil and didn't produce heads of grain. Others fell on thorns, and they choked the seeds and worms ate them. And others fell on good soil, and it produced a good crop: it yielded sixty per measure and one hundred twenty per measure."This doesn't mean what you think it means! Or what the church says it means!
The eighth saying in the Gospel of Thomas is a big fish story. Jesus said, "The man is like a wise fisherman who cast his net into the sea and drew it up from the sea full of little fish. Among them the wise fisherman discovered a fine large fish. He threw all the little fish back into the sea, and easily chose the large fish. Anyone here with two good ears had better listen!"
In this episode, we take a captivating journey into the world of professional wrestling with Max Smashmaster, a veteran wrestler and owner of the New England Pro Wrestling Academy. Max shares his origin story, recounting his early days in wrestling, his time with Chikara, and the lessons he learned along the way. We also explore the importance of branding in wrestling promotions, the creative process behind character development, and the challenges of running a wrestling school. Join us for an engaging conversation filled with insights, humor, and a touch of nostalgia!Chapters:(00:00) The Got, uh, PJ will be back, allegedly, next week(00:18) Max Smashmaster chats with our guest, Mr. Thomas. We will happily do so(02:08) Tell us your origin story in professional wrestling(05:12) Max Massmasters: The Eagles beat the Chiefs yesterday in the Super Bowl(09:02) Max Smashmaster's name was thrust upon him at a Chikara event(12:14) What do you learn as a small business owner and how do you transition(17:42) Cara: You have a brand. And your brand is different than everything else there(23:26) Thomas Ciccar: A lot of my learning from wrestling came from characters(25:46) How do you incorporate appearance talent into the ongoing stories of Rad Pro Wrestling(30:51) M Still my bud. I'm a Baltimore guy, so I saw a lot of Ringo(31:13) Someone put it on Twitter that you were on the Sentai Death Squad(32:47) Thomas Max: Did you see any of the Super Bowl commercials(33:16) Jeff Probst: Mayonnaise is not a thing in Jewish deli(36:29) I have two questions about cooking competitions and the bear series(41:31) I bought her the Top Chef cookbook. I thought that would be a good gift(42:21) The Menu is more of a psychological thriller than a horror movie(43:59) Did any of the super bowl commercials appeal to you at all(44:24) What do you like right now in wrestling? What storylines are you here for(46:50) Thomas: Kendrick Lamar dissed Drake at the Super Bowl(48:56) What is your favorite video game system and why is it PlayStation 2(50:20) Rad Pro Wrestling has a big event coming up on February 15th(54:28) Devastation Corporation is always open for business, Jeff(56:06) Tell Jeff about the fantasy camps that sell out very quickly(58:01) Mr. M. Thomas is a certified chef(58:21) Next MLW M show will be is the Battle Riot in Los Angeles(59:58) Thomas: If you subscribe to Garden of Doom, you get three shows(01:01:10) Is Baba Thunder still part of Contra? Or is he working with
Dr. Adam Francisco, author, “One Word, Many Writings” One Word, Many Writings The post The Bible and Other Religious Writings: The Gospel of Thomas and Dianetics – Dr. Adam Francisco, 2/12/25 (0433) first appeared on Issues, Etc..
Today we look at the seventh saying in the Gospel of Thomas, which is the Parable of the Lion and the Man. Jesus said, “Blessed is a lion that a man eats, because that lion will become human. Cursed is a man that a lion eats, because that lion will become human.”
In this episode I look at the sixth saying in the Gospel of Thomas. It reads: “His disciples asked him and said to him, "Do you want us to fast? How should we pray? Should we give to charity? What diet should we observe?" Jesus said, "Don't lie, and don't do what you hate, because all things are disclosed before heaven. After all, there is nothing hidden that will not be revealed, and there is nothing covered up that will remain undisclosed."The topic is spiritual practice. I briefly mention the four spiritual disciplines that the disciples ask Jesus about in the gospel of Thomas. Then I look at the parallels in the New Testament gospels. Then we look at what Jesus says in the Gospel of Thomas about these and how that is alike and different from the other gospels.
What is the Nag Hammadi Library? An Interview with Dr. Dylan Burns Dr. Dylan Burns, a leading scholar on the “Nag Hammadi Library” and related texts, describes the significance of the 1945 archaeological discovery in Nag Hammadi, Egypt. It is not only of great importance for a better understanding of Christian origins, but many of the texts also reveal a great beauty and probing inquiry into the meaning of the divine in human experience. Their great diversity and welcome for women leadership were among the greatest surprises. Dr. Dylan M. Burns is Assistant Professor of the History of Esotericism in Late Antiquity at the University of Amsterdam. He earned his doctorate in Ancient Christianity at Yale University in 2011, before holding research positions in Copenhagen, Leipzig, and Berlin. Among his books are Apocalypse of the Alien God: Platonism and the Exile of Sethian Gnosticism (2014), Did God Care? Providence, Dualism, and Will in Later Greek and Early Christian Philosophy (2020), and The Dead Sea Scrolls and the Nag Hammadi Codices (2022). Transcript available on the Early Christian Texts website: https://earlychristiantexts.com/what-is-the-nag-hammadi-library/
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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 Gospel of Thomas are distilled into koan-like paradoxes and parables, designed to provoke self-realization. Labeled heretical by early church fathers, this primary text of the “Thomasine Tradition,” rejects dogma in favor of direct spiritual revelation, urging initiates to meditate on its riddles to awaken their divine nature, so as to “not taste death.”This episode discusses the first 23 sayings. Here are highlights from the sections:Sayings 1–3: immortality comes by transcending physicality and materiality through self-knowledge and identification with consciousness, while the path to sovereignty (“becoming king over the All”) demands confronting disturbing truths.Sayings 4–7: delve into Jungian shadow work, where innocence must be reclaimed consciously, and spiritual mastery requires “eating the lion” (integrating instinctual forces symbolized by the Demiurge).Sayings 8–11: contrast transient heavens with eternal unity, using metaphors like the fisherman's “large fish” (ultimate truth) and the disruptive “fire” that the teachings help kindle, to dismantle outdated paradigms.A pivotal moment arises in Saying 13, where Thomas receives three secret words - keys to spiritual, soul, and material realms - after recognizing Jesus's ineffable nature, also highlighting Peter's and Matthew's limited interpretations of Jesus as merely a prophet or a philosopher.Later sayings (14–23): critique performative piety, urging alignment with the “unborn” (bornless) divine essence within. These sayings include Kabbalistic references, and also refer to the alchemical unification of male/female polarities.The episode culminates in Saying 23's stark reminder that few attain full unity with the divine - a “spiritual alchemy” reserved for those willing to dissolve egoic barriers, to die to who they thought they were, in order to become a “Twin of Jesus,” a spiritual master.David and Gene contextualize Thomas' role as the archetypal Gnostic doubter, whose insistence on firsthand gnosis mirrors the text's radical claim: that we are all potential “twins” of Christ, tasked with resurrecting the reflection of the divine, in our mind, heart and hands.Deep Dive:The Gospel of ThomasChapters:01:15 Introduction02:45 History and Significance05:10 The Gospel of Thomas06:36 Sayings 1-309:24 Sayings 4-712:02 Sayings 8-1115:43 Sayings 12-1319:14 Sayings 14-1622:59 Sayings 17-1925:27 Sayings 20-2330:15 ConclusionsResources:The Gospel of Thomas (history and various translations - Gnosis.org)Gospel of Thomas (Patterson and Robinson translation)Gnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesThe Red Book: A Reader's Edition by Carl JungJesus and the Lost Goddess: The Secret Teachings of the Original Christians by Freke and Gandy
George Noory and author Keith Giles explore the lost Gospel of Thomas in the Bible, how its messages from Jesus are different from the other traditional Bible passages, and how the Gospel overlaps with what scientists say about quantum physics and the nature of reality.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today we look at the fifth saying in the Gospel of Thomas. Jesus said, "Recognize what is in your sight, and that which is hidden from you will become plain to you. For there is nothing hidden which will not become manifest." That is a translation of the Coptic text.The Greek version, which dated earlier, adds another line. Jesus said, “Know what is in front of your face and that which has been hidden from you will be revealed to you. For there is nothing hidden that will not become clear and nothing buried that will not be raised.” Greek Oxyrhynchus Papyri (200 AD)This talking about the revelation of the gospel of nonduality. It is saying it is both hidden and obvious at the same time.
This episode looks at the fourth saying in the Gospel of Thomas. Jesus says, “A person old in days will not hesitate to ask a little child seven days old about the place of life, and the person will live. For many of the first will be last and become a single one.” Anyone who is familiar with the New Testament gospels will hear similarities to the biblical sayings of Jesus that center on children. It is well-established that Jesus used children as examples of what it means to be in the Kingdom of Heaven – the Spiritual Realm, the Presence of God. The saying in the Gospel of Thomas adds a couple of details that bring us further into this teaching. Here he clearly teaches nonduality.This saying in the Gospel of Thomas is Jesus' equivalent to the famous Zen koan about your original face. “What is your original face before you were born?” Jesus is directing our attention to what Buddhists call the Buddha Nature. What we might call our divine nature or the image of God. He is saying that we all know this original nature. Every child knows this. The spiritual search is rediscovering what we used to know.
I have taken several trips to the Eastern Mediterranean countries to visit Biblical sites – Israel, Turkey, Jordan, Egypt. One year I took a trip to Greece that followed the journeys of the apostle Paul. One of my favorite sites was not a biblical one. It was Delphi on Mt. Parnassus. It was said that the maxim "Know thyself" was inscribed upon the Temple of Apollo there. Today it is called self-inquiry. These words are the teaching of Jesus, according to the third saying in the Gospel of Thomas. Jesus said, "If those who lead you say to you, 'See, the kingdom is in the sky,' then the birds of the sky will precede you. If they say to you, 'It is in the sea,' then the fish will precede you. Rather, the kingdom is inside of you, and it is outside of you. When you come to know yourselves, then you will become known, and you will realize that it is you who are the sons of the living father. But if you will not know yourselves, you dwell in poverty and it is you who are that poverty."
Start talking about the Gospels, and most people will have a rough idea of what you're talking about - a narrative account of Jesus' life. Today, however, we throw all of that familiarity out of the window and talk about one of the most non-Gospel Gospels I've ever read, the enigmatic apocryphal Gospel of Thomas!
This is the third episode on the Gospel of Thomas, and I am looking at the second saying in the gospel. But as I mentioned in the last episode, this may actually be the first one spoken by Jesus. The previous saying may have been written by Thomas or the editor of the Gospel of Thomas. If this is the first saying spoken by Jesus, then it has greater significance. It sets the stage for all the other teachings. In this saying Jesus is teaching about six stages of spiritual awakening. I say stages, but I could just as easily use the words dimensions or aspects. But I have opted for the word stages because Jesus seems to be saying that one follows the other naturally. Jesus said, "Those who seek should not stop seeking until they find. When they find, they will be disturbed. When they are disturbed, they will marvel, and will reign over all. And after they have reigned they will rest."
Today I look at the first saying in the Gospel of Thomas. It says, “And he said, ‘Whoever finds the correct interpretation of these sayings will never die.'” Another translation says, "Whoever finds the interpretation of these sayings will not experience death." Another puts it, “Whoever discovers what these sayings mean will not taste death.”The theme is Life. Eternal life. It is about conquering death. This is the theme of the Gospel of Thomas. It is the Gospel of Life. The purpose of this gospel is knowing eternal life. In exploring this theme I look at the four ways of salvation in classic Indian thought: the devotional path called bhakti, the path of works called karma, and the path of knowledge called jnana, and the path of meditation called raja. I show how they are present in Christianity.
The text explores the possible Aramaic origins of the Gospel of Thomas, a non-canonical collection of Jesus' sayings. Evidence suggests an Aramaic influence due to the sayings' structure, vocabulary, and thematic similarities to known Aramaic writings and the Synoptic Gospels. While no Aramaic manuscript exists, linguistic analysis reveals stylistic features aligning with Semitic parallelism and aphorisms. This supports the theory that the Gospel of Thomas, initially transmitted orally in Aramaic, was later translated into Greek. The text's overall argument posits a strong connection between the Gospel's content and the historical Jesus' Aramaic teachings. Online courses: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com
This week we dive into an early christian book which cover's Jesus' childhood.
In this episode I begin exploring the Gospel of Thomas, focusing on the prologue of the gospel, which reads: “These are the hidden sayings that the living Jesus spoke and that Didymos Judas Thomas wrote down.” I give a little background, and then explain what it means to say that the gospel is hidden, using biblical examples of hiddenness from the parables of Jesus and the epistles of apostle Paul. It is not an esoteric gospel, but a gospel hidden in plain sight. It is an open secret, to use the phrase of nondual teacher Tony Parsons.
Kevin Donahue and Fletcher Neil join me to discuss Thich Nhat Hanh's Living Buddha, Living Christ and the Gospel of Thomas. Other references: Nietzsche's Thus Spoke Zarathustra, "On the Three Metamorphoses", "On the Gift-Giving Virtue" Suzuki's Mysticism: Christian and Buddhist My Novel: On Death and God Social Media: Instagram Substack YouTube Website Outro provided by Brock Tanya.
Join us in this enlightening episode as we delve into the profound concept of "Harvest" through the lens of the Gospel of Thomas and the Law of One. Our discussion begins with an opening prayer, inviting listeners to connect with the confederation of planets in service to the one infinite creator. We explore how these ancient texts can provide psycho-spiritual education and offer fresh perspectives on the harvest theme. The conversation introduces Rudy and Leon, with Leon being hailed as our resident plant medicine guru. Together, we unpack parables from the Gospel of Thomas, exploring themes of vulnerability, innocence, and spiritual maturity. The discussion touches on the metaphorical aspects of being "naked" and living as "children" in fields not our own, with participants sharing insights into spiritual growth and self-awareness. We then explore the two harvests mentioned in the Law of One, focusing on the transition from third to fourth density. Our discussion highlights the challenges of embracing love and light, addressing themes of worthiness, guilt, and forgiveness. Participants share personal experiences and insights into the journey toward spiritual maturity and the joy of fourth density living. Concluding with reflections on community, joy, and the unfolding of perfection, this episode invites listeners to view their lives as part of the divine process. Join us in this journey of understanding and embracing the harvest, as we walk each other home in the spirit of unity and love.
On today's show, Keith and Matthew sit down with Candida Moss and Libbie Schrader, two experts on the Gospel of Mary (Magdalene?). If you love the Gnostic texts, Christian history, and all that deliciously nerdy stuff, tune in for a deep dive into your favorite topics.If you want to call in to the Bonus Show, leave a voicemail at (530) 332-8020. We would love to get to your calls!To read the paper mentioned in the show: https://brill.com/downloadpdf/view/journals/nt/66/3/article-p382_8.pdfLINKSQuoirCast on PatreonQuoirCast on PatheosPANELCandida MossElizabeth Schrader
The Bonus Show rolls on and picks up where we left off during Tuesday's main show. Matthew and Keith reflect on what the Gospel of Thomas means to Christianity, and how an expanded canon would benefit Christianity.If you want to call in to the Bonus Show, leave a voicemail at (530) 332-8020. We would love to get to your calls!To pick up Keith's best-selling book on Thomas, click here.LINKSQuoirCast on PatreonQuoirCast on Patheos
Andrew Mark Henry is a scholar of religious studies. His research focus is early Christianity and late Roman religion. He earned his PhD at Boston University. His YouTube channel is "Religion for Breakfast".