Podcast Summary: Occult Confessions - Episode 15.6: Sex Worship

Release Date: November 26, 2021
Host/Author: The Alchemical Actors (Rob C. Thompson)

Introduction to Sex Worship

The episode delves into the intricate relationship between sexuality and spirituality, guided by the insights of 19th-century writer and Rosicrucian enthusiast Hargrave Jennings. Rob C. Thompson introduces the theme by questioning whether the foundation of all religions lies in the worship of penises and vaginas. Jennings posits that prehistoric reproductive worship is the secret origin of global religions, aligning with philosophies like yin and yang and Hermeticism.

Rob C. Thompson [00:00]: "Is the root of all religions the worship of penises and vaginas?"

Guest Introductions and the Pledge

Rob is joined by Jacob Wheatley, Knight of the Dangling Serpent, and Anna Pavon, a returning member from earlier seasons. The trio engages in a light-hearted moment reciting their unique pledge, emphasizing their commitment to uncovering the occult history.

Jacob Wheatley [02:24]: "It's my penis intuition."

Hargrave Jennings: The Phallic Scholar

Rob provides a biography of Hargrave Jennings, highlighting his work on Rosicrucianism and ancient religious history. Jennings challenges the notion of absolute truth in religions, suggesting that all major religious traditions share superficial similarities rooted in male and female generative principles.

Rob C. Thompson [08:07]: "Jennings likes Krishna because he's partial to India. He believes that all religions have their root in Central Asia."

Symbolism in Religious Architecture

The discussion moves to various symbols that represent phallic and yonic worship across cultures. Jennings interprets obelisks, poles, and other architectural elements as manifestations of the male and female principles. The conversation touches upon ancient structures like Stonehenge and the use of serpents and tridents as symbols of life and regeneration.

Rob C. Thompson [18:01]: "Obelisk towers and steeples represent in figure fourth, the male principle."

Rituals and Festivals: A Sexual Undertone

Rob and his guests explore ancient Roman festivals such as Bacchanalia and Liberalia, highlighting their explicit sexual elements. Jennings associates these rituals with genital worship, emphasizing activities like parades featuring phallic floats and orgiastic rites intended to promote fertility and divine favor.

Rob C. Thompson [36:36]: "The Liberalia featured a parade in which a giant penis was led through the town and women ran through the forests half naked."

Ritual Prostitution and Sacred Symbols

The episode delves into the controversial topic of ritual prostitution in ancient temples, where women acted as divine symbols for fertility and worship. Jennings connects these practices to broader themes of sexual symbolism in religious worship, suggesting that objects like the lotus and lingam hold deep spiritual significance.

Rob C. Thompson [47:23]: "In Hebrew tradition, the first book of Samuel says that the sons of Eli lay with the women who assembled at the tabernacle of the congregation, suggesting a similar form of sex worship."

Modern Reflections on Sexuality and Spirituality

Transitioning to contemporary times, Rob reflects on how ancient sexual rituals influence modern perceptions of sex and spirituality. The discussion highlights the ongoing struggle to balance sexual desire with societal norms, especially concerning women’s sexuality.

Rob C. Thompson [60:06]: "Sex is kind of in everything. And it continues to be tough to be sexually active and tough to be a virgin and particularly tough to be a woman."

Social Dynamics and the Expression of Desire

The conversation shifts to current social dynamics, particularly how digital interactions have transformed the way desire is expressed and perceived. The guests lament the loss of face-to-face interactions and the complexities introduced by online communications.

Rob C. Thompson [67:02]: "Maybe the Internet and the phone is taking away our ability to look each other in the eye and say, oh, yeah, this person's honest."

Conclusion: The Mystery of Sexuality in Spirituality

Rob concludes by acknowledging the enduring mysteries and contradictions surrounding sex in both historical and modern contexts. He emphasizes Jennings' humility in grappling with these complexities and suggests that understanding and respecting sexual desire is crucial for spiritual and personal growth.

Rob C. Thompson [73:29]: "We just kept all that pagan stuff. Halloween."

Notable Quotes

• Rob C. Thompson [00:00]: "Is the root of all religions the worship of penises and vaginas?"
• Jacob Wheatley [02:24]: "It's my penis intuition."
• Rob C. Thompson [08:07]: "Jennings likes Krishna because he's partial to India. He believes that all religions have their root in Central Asia."
• Rob C. Thompson [18:01]: "Obelisk towers and steeples represent in figure fourth, the male principle."
• Rob C. Thompson [36:36]: "The Liberalia featured a parade in which a giant penis was led through the town and women ran through the forests half naked."
• Rob C. Thompson [47:23]: "In Hebrew tradition, the first book of Samuel says that the sons of Eli lay with the women who assembled at the tabernacle of the congregation, suggesting a similar form of sex worship."
• Rob C. Thompson [60:06]: "Sex is kind of in everything. And it continues to be tough to be sexually active and tough to be a virgin and particularly tough to be a woman."
• Rob C. Thompson [67:02]: "Maybe the Internet and the phone is taking away our ability to look each other in the eye and say, oh, yeah, this person's honest."
• Rob C. Thompson [73:29]: "We just kept all that pagan stuff. Halloween."

This episode of Occult Confessions offers a provocative exploration of the intertwined nature of sexuality and spirituality throughout history. By examining ancient rituals, symbols, and modern social dynamics, Rob C. Thompson and his guests invite listeners to reconsider the foundational elements of religious worship and the persistent mysteries surrounding human sexuality.