S4E38 - Critique of Mysticism with the Other Chris

In this episode we introduce a new friend of the show and have a thoughtful discussion on the origin of religion and just what rests at the historical beginning of organized faith. We discuss the work of Wilhelm Schmidt, E.J. Michael Witzel and Michael Heiser on the subject in addition to a whole host of interesting asides. We discuss the ideas of 'sympathetic magic' and 'archetypes of the mind' as potential answers to the origin of religion, but ultimately end on another possibility--that of personal, individual mystical experience. What follows is an exploration of where mysticism overlaps with Christian theology and where it varies. Agree or disagree, great fun was had by all! If you enjoyed our guest--Chris from YHWH's Janitor--you can take a deeper dive here: www.yhwhjanitor.com  Enjoy ;)