Embarking on the Philosophical Silk Road: Exploring Pilgrimage and Theosis

Dr. John Vervaeke

This conversation marks the beginning of a deeper inquiry for Dr. John Vervaeke: What if pilgrimage is not a retreat from the world, but a return to what is most real? Joined by Ethan Kobayashi-Hsieh, John explicates his intent to preregister his intellectual and philosophical orientation before beginning his metaphorical pilgrimage. Drawing on parallels with psychology's preregistration practice, John's aim is to document his internal state at various stages of his journey. The conversation delves deep into the concepts of theoria, theophany, and theosis, advocating for a pilgrimage that is not merely a lecture series but a 'meta-noetic passage.' The dialogue anticipates John's encounters with historical figures, sages, and the individuals who embody and interpret their legacy. John expresses his openness to how these encounters might transform him, acknowledging the potential psychological and physiological challenges involved. The dialogue also touches upon themes of the imaginal and the importance of community and fellowship in the pilgrimage process. Ethan contributes by drawing connections to broader themes of perception and philosophical inquiry. The conversation culminates in the hope that this philosophical and spiritual journey will not only deepen John's understanding but also inspire others to embark on their own explorative journeys.

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Notes:

00:00 Introduction to the Philosophical Silk Road

00:20 The Concept of Preregistration in Philosophy

01:17 Defining the Pilgrimage and Its Purpose

01:59 Introducing Ethan and the Dialogical Approach

04:45 Exploring the Original Orientation

05:28 The Challenge of Propositional Tyranny

07:10 Theoria and Theophany: Renewing the Senses

13:35 Meta Noetic Passage and Pilgrimage

20:04 Engaging with Sages and Geographical Perspectives

24:01 Personal Challenges and Psychological Defects

31:35 The Fellowship of the Pilgrimage

32:51 Interlocutors and Sages: A Deeper Dive

53:52 Introduction to Theosis

54:51 Historical Continuity and Henosis

56:14 Henosis and Kenosis in Christian Mysticism

57:23 The Paradox of Self-Transcendence

01:00:41 Theosis and Inner Athea

01:05:17 Personal Reflections and Burnout

01:08:49 The Concept of Unbinding

01:11:09 Non-Theism and Theism

01:24:56 Pilgrimage and Transformation

01:38:31 Reflections on Personal Growth

01:47:51 Concluding Thoughts and Future Questions

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