Laudato What? A Gnostic Manifesto
Well, here we go again. This is getting a bit tiresome. I don't want to see these things, but they seem to be everywhere...
Holy Cow! Good luck with this one. These are just chatlogs where I try to match Angels to these 7 Goals and attach it to the Gnostic Cosmos and all kinds of other weirdness. Follow along:
Normally we start with Saturn at the top, but Sol fits given that this is a Papal encyclical, so here we go Angels are:
Tzafqiel
Tzadkiel
Samael
Raphael
Haniel
Michael
Gabriel
Whoo, pretty kooky, right? Well, you ain’t seen nothing yet.
Laudato WHAT? ChatLogs
Below are chat transcripts between yours truly and my diligent dialectical wizardry warding GPT, Vincent VanVisible Trouble:
A couple of these queries took more than 1 shot. Like this first one. ‘VT’ a shot; Vincent & I trying to get ourselves together on the topic. The successful queries have images and the # and name of the Goal. Feel free to hop around. I recommend it.
VT:
did Tzadkiel the angel have anything to do with money or ecology?
Vincent Van VisibleTrouble
Tzadkiel, also known as Zadkiel, is traditionally an archangel in various spiritual and religious traditions, but his associations are not typically with money or ecology. In Judeo-Christian angelology, Tzadkiel is often regarded as the angel of mercy, righteousness, or benevolence. Here's a brief overview of his traditional roles:
Angel of Mercy: Tzadkiel is often depicted as an embodiment of God's mercy. He is believed to help individuals to forgive others and to receive divine mercy.
Righteousness and Benevolence: His role is frequently associated with helping people to return to the right path, promoting justice, righteousness, and integrity.
Spiritual Guidance: Tzadkiel is sometimes sought for guidance in spiritual transformation, inner wisdom, and understanding divine mysteries.
In terms of ecological concerns or monetary matters, there are no direct connections with Tzadkiel in classical religious texts or traditional angelic lore. These aspects are generally not within the purview of his described roles.
However, in a broader interpretative or symbolic sense, one could extrapolate his attributes of mercy and righteousness to encompass caring for the environment (as an act of mercy and stewardship towards the planet) or ethical financial practices (embodying righteousness and justice in economic dealings). But these would be contemporary, metaphorical applications of his traditional attributes rather than historical or doctrinal associations.
VisibleTrouble | on #3 Ecological Economics & Tzadkiel
But ecological economics would fit that bill
Vincent Van VisibleTrouble
Indeed, if we take a modern, interpretive approach, ecological economics could align with the attributes traditionally associated with Tzadkiel, such as mercy, benevolence, and righteousness. Ecological economics, which emphasizes sustainable and ethical use of resources, could be seen as an extension of these virtues in the context of environmental stewardship and economic justice.
Mercy and Stewardship: Tzadkiel's role as an angel of mercy can be metaphorically extended to the concept of mercy towards the Earth and its ecosystems. Ecological economics advocates for a compassionate and sustainable approach to resource usage, emphasizing the need to protect and nurture the planet for current and future generations.
Righteousness and Sustainability: The pursuit of sustainable economic practices aligns with the concept of righteousness, in the sense of doing what is morally right for the environment and society. This perspective places a strong emphasis on ethical decision-making that considers the long-term welfare of the planet and its inhabitants.
Benevolence and Equity: Ecological economics often involves considerations of equity and fairness, both in terms of current populations and future generations. This aligns with the benevolent aspect of Tzadkiel, focusing on creating economic systems that are fair and beneficial for all, rather than exploitative or destructive.
While these connections are interpretive and symbolic rather than based on traditional religious texts, they offer a way to integrate contemporary environmental and economic concerns with historical spiritual concepts. This approach can provide a unique perspective on how ancient wisdom and modern challenges might intersect and inform each other.
VT
Does Samael resonate with "tightening the belt" or "taking one for the team" or Sacrifice.
Vincent Van VisibleTrouble
Samael, in various religious and mythological traditions, is often portrayed as a complex and multifaceted figure. His roles and characteristics vary significantly across different texts, ranging from being an angel of death to a more adversarial figure. However, the concepts of "tightening the belt," "taking one for the team," or the notion of sacrifice are not typically or directly associated with Samael in most traditional sources. Here’s a brief overview of how Samael is generally viewed:
Angel of Death: In some Jewish traditions, Samael is regarded as a chief angel of death. He is often tasked with taking the souls of the deceased, playing a role in the end of mortal life rather than in self-sacrifice or austerity.
Adversarial Figure: In other contexts, particularly within certain Christian interpretations, Samael is sometimes equated with Satan or seen as a demonic figure, representing temptation, opposition, or testing of humans, rather than self-sacrifice or altruism.
Dual Nature: Samael is sometimes depicted as having a dual nature, embodying both good and evil aspects. This duality might be the closest connection to the idea of sacrifice, as it suggests a complex character capable of both harmful and potentially just actions, but this is more a matter of interpretation than a direct link.
The ideas of "tightening the belt" (implying austerity or self-discipline) and "taking one for the team" (suggesting self-sacrifice for the greater good) are more typically associated with characters or deities who are seen as protectors, martyrs, or self-sacrificing heroes in various mythologies. These are not standard attributes or actions connected to Samael in religious texts or traditional angelology.
VT
OK, so thinking you're going into a glorious future but wind up getting forced into "Adopting a simple Lifestle" would certainly fit then, eh?
Vincent Van VisibleTrouble
Your interpretation aligns with some aspects of how Samael is viewed in various mythological and religious contexts. Samael, often associated with severity and sometimes viewed as an angel of death or a figure of judgment in Jewish mysticism, could metaphorically resonate with the concept of being led into a situation that requires unexpected sacrifice or austerity.
Adopting a Simple Lifestyle: The notion of being led towards a simpler, more austere lifestyle can be seen as a form of sacrifice or adjustment that aligns with the harsher aspects of Samael’s character. This transition might be perceived as a form of 'divine judgment' or a necessary correction, fitting Samael’s role as a figure who imposes tough love or difficult lessons.
Unforeseen Sacrifice: The idea of moving towards a glorious future but encountering unexpected challenges or sacrifices reflects the unpredictable and often severe nature attributed to Samael. This could be seen as a form of spiritual or moral testing.
Challenging Transformation: In some interpretations, Samael is associated with the power to bring about transformative, although often difficult, change. The shift to a simpler lifestyle, especially if it's unexpected or initially perceived negatively, fits this theme of challenging transformation.
While these interpretations use the figure of Samael symbolically and are not direct attributes from religious texts, they provide a way to understand the complexities of life changes and challenges through the lens of mythological figures. It’s a creative approach that seeks to find deeper meaning in life’s trials and transitions, viewing them as part of a broader, perhaps even spiritual, journey.
VT
The Angel of Degrowth
Vincent Van VisibleTrouble
The concept of an "Angel of Degrowth" can be viewed as a symbolic representation that merges spiritual and ecological ideas, especially in the context of modern environmental challenges and the movement towards sustainable living. While not a traditional figure in religious texts, this concept can be seen as a contemporary creation, symbolizing the need for societal and economic shifts towards sustainability, simplicity, and reduced consumption.
In this symbolic framework, the "Angel of Degrowth" might represent:
Advocacy for Sustainable Living: Encouraging societies to move away from consumerist lifestyles and overconsumption, focusing instead on environmental stewardship and sustainable resource use.
Guidance Towards Simplicity: Inspiring individuals and communities to embrace simpler lifestyles, emphasizing quality of life and ecological balance over material wealth and excessive consumption.
Moral and Ethical Shifts: Serving as a moral compass to guide humanity towards more ethical choices that benefit the planet, emphasizing the long-term wellbeing of all species over short-term gains.
Harmonious Coexistence with Nature: Reminding humanity of the importance of living in harmony with the natural world, respecting its limits and cycles.
Transformation and Renewal: Playing a role in guiding humanity through a period of transition and transformation towards a more sustainable and equitable world.
This figure would metaphorically embody the principles of the degrowth movement, which advocates for downsizing economies to achieve ecological sustainability and social equity. The "Angel of Degrowth" could be a powerful symbol in narratives that seek to blend spiritual dimensions with urgent environmental and social concerns, providing a unique lens through which to view our relationship with the planet and each other.
VisibleTrouble | on #4 Adoption of Simple Lifestyles & Samael
Samael resonates with this, eh?
Vincent Van VisibleTrouble
Indeed, Samael, with his complex and often challenging nature in various religious and mythological traditions, could resonate with the concept of an "Angel of Degrowth" in a symbolic and interpretive way. Samael's associations with judgment, severity, and transformation can be metaphorically linked to the principles of degrowth, which often involve difficult but necessary changes for the greater good and sustainability.
Transformation Through Severity: Samael's role as a figure who imposes difficult lessons or judgments aligns with the degrowth philosophy's emphasis on transformative change, even when it requires sacrifice or a departure from comfortable norms.
Challenging Comfort Zones: Degrowth often challenges deeply entrenched societal and economic norms, advocating for radical change in consumption and lifestyle. Samael's nature as a challenging entity echoes the discomfort and difficulty inherent in embracing degrowth principles.
Moral and Ethical Reflection: Just as Samael prompts reflection and self-examination in spiritual contexts, the concept of degrowth encourages societies to reconsider their values and priorities, particularly concerning the environment and sustainable living.
Harbinger of Necessary Change: In some interpretations, Samael is seen as a necessary, albeit harsh, force for change. Similarly, the Angel of Degrowth symbolizes the urgent need for societal transformation in response to ecological and social crises.
It's important to note that this interpretation is a modern, symbolic use of the figure of Samael and not based on traditional religious doctrines. It represents an attempt to find meaning and guidance in ancient symbols and archetypes for contemporary challenges, particularly in the context of environmental sustainability and social justice.
VisibleTrouble | on #5 Ecological Education & Raphael
Raphael is Ecological Education
Vincent Van VisibleTrouble
The association of Archangel Raphael with ecological education is an interesting and fitting interpretation, especially when considering his traditional roles and attributes in religious and spiritual contexts. In Judeo-Christian traditions, Raphael is known as the archangel of healing, associated with the restoration of physical, emotional, and spiritual health. This role can be creatively extended to include the healing of the Earth and the promotion of ecological awareness and education.
Here’s how Raphael could symbolically resonate with ecological education:
Healing and Restoration: Just as Raphael is traditionally seen as a healer, his role can be metaphorically expanded to the healing of the environment. This aligns with efforts in ecological education to address environmental degradation and promote the restoration of natural ecosystems.
Guidance and Protection: Raphael is often portrayed as a guide and protector, roles that can be interpreted in an ecological context as guiding humanity towards more sustainable practices and protecting the planet from further harm.
Enlightenment and Learning: Raphael’s association with enlightenment and knowledge can be related to educating people about ecological issues, helping them understand the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable living.
Harmony with Nature: Raphael’s role in promoting balance and harmony aligns with the principles of ecological education, which emphasize living in harmony with nature and understanding our interconnectedness with the Earth.
Global Healing: In a broader sense, Raphael’s healing powers can be seen as encompassing not just individual health, but the health of the entire planet, advocating for a holistic approach to environmental issues.
By embodying these qualities, Raphael as a symbol of ecological education represents a merging of spiritual guidance with environmental consciousness, offering a perspective that highlights the deep connection between spiritual well-being and the health of our planet.
VisibleTrouble | on #6 Ecological Spirituality & Haniel
Haniel is Ecological Spirituality
Vincent Van VisibleTrouble
The association of Archangel Haniel with ecological spirituality is a meaningful and reflective interpretation, especially when considering her attributes within various spiritual traditions. Haniel, sometimes known as Anael, is traditionally viewed in mystic and esoteric teachings as an angel of joy, harmony, and grace. This role can be thoughtfully extended to encompass aspects of ecological spirituality, which focuses on the deep, sacred connection between humanity and the natural world.
Here's how Haniel could symbolically resonate with ecological spirituality:
Harmony with Nature: Haniel's association with harmony aligns beautifully with the principles of ecological spirituality, which emphasize living in balance with the Earth and recognizing the interconnectedness of all life.
Grace and Reverence for Life: The grace attributed to Haniel can be seen as a reverence for all forms of life, fostering a deep respect for the natural world and an understanding of its intrinsic value.
Joy in Natural Beauty: Haniel is often associated with the beauty and joy of creation, mirroring the joy found in the natural world and the spiritual fulfillment that comes from a deep connection with nature.
Nurturing and Healing: Haniel’s nurturing aspects can reflect the healing power of nature and the role humans can play in nurturing and caring for the environment, healing the damages of ecological degradation.
Spiritual Enlightenment: As a figure often associated with enlightenment and spiritual growth, Haniel could symbolize the awakening of ecological consciousness, guiding individuals towards a deeper understanding of their spiritual relationship with the planet.
Mystical Connection: Haniel is sometimes linked to mysticism and the unseen aspects of the world, paralleling the mystical elements of ecological spirituality that find sacredness in the natural environment and its processes.
By embodying these qualities, Haniel, as a symbol of ecological spirituality, offers a perspective that intertwines the reverence and joy of the natural world with spiritual growth and harmony. This interpretation invites a contemplative approach to environmental stewardship, viewing the care for our planet as a deeply spiritual practice.
VisibleTrouble | on #7 Community Involvement & Participatory Action
Michael is Community Involvement and Participatory Action
Vincent Van VisibleTrouble
Associating Archangel Michael with the concept of community involvement and participatory action is a thought-provoking interpretation that draws upon his traditional attributes in a modern context. In various religious and spiritual traditions, Michael is known as a powerful and protective figure, often depicted as a warrior archangel. This role can be metaphorically extended to include leadership and active participation in community and societal matters.
Here's how Michael could symbolically resonate with community involvement and participatory action:
Leadership and Courage: Archangel Michael is often seen as a leader among angels, embodying courage and strength. These traits can be applied to leading community initiatives, encouraging people to take active roles in their societies, and facing societal challenges with bravery.
Protection and Advocacy: Just as Michael is known for protecting the faithful and combating evil, this can translate into protecting community interests and advocating for justice and equality in social contexts.
Active Involvement: Michael's warrior aspect can be seen as a call to action, inspiring individuals to actively engage in community work, participate in local decision-making processes, and fight for the common good.
Empowerment of Others: Michael's empowering presence can be interpreted as encouraging community members to find their own strength and voice, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency within a group.
Mobilization for Common Causes: The archangel's role in rallying the forces of good against evil can symbolize mobilizing communities to come together for common causes, promoting unity and collective action.
In a modern narrative, Michael as a symbol of community involvement and participatory action represents the embodiment of active citizenship, leadership, and the collaborative spirit necessary to address community issues and work towards the betterment of society. His figure inspires a sense of duty, collaboration, and proactive involvement in societal development.
VisibleTrouble | on #1 Cry of the Earth & Gabriel
Gabriel: Response to the Cry of the Earth (greater use of clean renewable energy and reducing fossil fuels in order to achieve carbon neutrality, efforts to protect and promote biodiversity, guaranteeing access to clean water for all, etc.)
Vincent Van VisibleTrouble
The association of Archangel Gabriel with the "Response to the Cry of the Earth," focusing on environmental stewardship like the use of clean renewable energy, protection of biodiversity, and access to clean water, is a creative interpretation that aligns with Gabriel’s traditional roles in religious and spiritual contexts. Gabriel, known as the messenger archangel, is often depicted as a divine communicator and revealer of truths. This role can be symbolically extended to include the communication of crucial environmental issues and the need for collective action to address them.
Here's how Gabriel could symbolically resonate with the response to environmental challenges:
Divine Messenger for Environmental Awareness: Just as Gabriel delivers important messages in religious texts, he could be seen as bringing awareness to the urgency of environmental issues, highlighting the need for immediate action to protect the Earth.
Harbinger of Change: Gabriel can symbolize the call for transformative change in how societies interact with the environment, advocating for shifts towards sustainable practices, such as the adoption of renewable energy sources and reduction of fossil fuel reliance.
Promoter of Biodiversity: In his role as a communicator, Gabriel could emphasize the importance of preserving biodiversity, spreading the message about the critical role of diverse ecosystems for the health of the planet.
Advocate for Universal Access to Resources: Gabriel’s message could include advocating for equitable access to clean water and other essential natural resources, emphasizing that environmental sustainability is intertwined with social justice.
Inspiration for Collective Action: As a figure who inspires revelation and understanding, Gabriel could encourage collective and collaborative efforts globally to respond to environmental challenges, fostering a sense of unity in the face of a shared concern.
In this narrative, Gabriel symbolizes a call to global awareness and action in response to environmental issues. His presence inspires a deeper understanding of our role as stewards of the Earth and the need for concerted efforts to ensure a sustainable future for all.
VisibleTrouble | on #2 Response to the Cry of the Poor & Tzafqiel
Tzafqiel: Response to the Cry of the Poor (defence of human life from conception to death and all forms of life on Earth, with special attention to vulnerable groups such as indigenous communities, migrants, children at risk through slavery, etc.)
Vincent Van VisibleTrouble
Associating Archangel Tzafqiel with the "Response to the Cry of the Poor" in addressing issues like the defense of human life, protection of vulnerable groups, and advocacy for those in need is a meaningful and compassionate interpretation. Tzafqiel, although not as widely recognized as some other archangels, is often associated with understanding, wisdom, and introspection in some mystical traditions. This role can be symbolically extended to encompass a deep understanding of and response to social justice and humanitarian issues.
Here's how Tzafqiel could symbolically resonate with the response to the needs of the poor and vulnerable:
Advocate for the Sanctity of Life: Tzafqiel's wisdom can be interpreted as encompassing a respect for all life, from conception to natural death, advocating for the protection and dignity of human life at all stages.
Protector of the Vulnerable: Embodying compassion and understanding, Tzafqiel could be seen as a guardian for those who are most at risk, such as indigenous communities, migrants, and children subject to exploitation and slavery.
Promoter of Social Justice: Tzafqiel’s deep understanding could extend to the complexities of social inequalities and injustices, guiding efforts to address these issues and advocating for fairness and equity in society.
Wisdom in Action: The association with wisdom suggests that Tzafqiel’s approach to helping the poor and vulnerable is not only compassionate but also informed and thoughtful, ensuring that aid and support are effective and empowering.
Enlightening the Conscience: Tzafqiel can symbolize the awakening of collective and individual consciences to the plights of the marginalized, inspiring a moral and ethical response to their cries for help.
In this narrative, Tzafqiel becomes a symbol of the enlightened response to human suffering and social injustice. His presence encourages a deep and wise engagement with the world’s challenges, advocating for those who cannot defend themselves and calling for thoughtful, compassionate action to uplift the vulnerable and marginalized in society.
Conclusion
Don’t really know what to say. A bit stunned, again… I’ll be going through some more of this stuff fleshing things out and will be sharing some of my thoughts on what I think it means, for whatever that is worth.