The concept of deities demanding blood sacrifices has been a focal point of religious practices and beliefs across various cultures. This inquiry delves into whether these rituals are solely for appeasing malevolent entities or if they have any beneficial aspects.
Paul commences by asserting his belief that there are no positive aspects to blood sacrifices. Reflecting on his journey, which began with an exploration of the Bible, Paul notes that certain beings in the scriptures demand cattle and sheep, requiring them to be bled dry and then burned.
The rationale behind these demands remains ambiguous—whether the entities regard these offerings as sustenance or derive pleasure from the smoke of the burning sacrifices is unclear.
Examining global narratives of animal sacrifice, Paul suggests that nonhuman beings desiring food are often at the core of these rituals. He references the Apocryphal story of Bel and the Dragon, where Babylonians claimed their sacrifices were consumed by a powerful entity, only to reveal it was the priests who were benefiting from these offerings. This story, Paul posits, indicates that the understanding was that powerful beings, or Elohim, consumed these sacrifices.
Blood sacrifices, Paul explains, create artificial scarcity, significantly impacting agrarian societies. In ancient Israel, the best livestock had to be offered to Yahweh, leading to increased insecurity for the farmers who relied on their livestock for sustenance and economic stability. This practice not only deprived them of their prime resources but also imposed a heavier burden on their livelihoods, as they had to give their best livestock to the priests for sacrifice, which prevented them from using these animals to strengthen their herds.
Furthermore, Paul delves into the darker aspects of blood sacrifices, including human sacrifices observed in various cultures worldwide. He shares insights from his book “The Invasion of Eden,” which parallels narratives from different cultures depicting entities feeding off the terror and essence of humans.
He likens this to scenes from Jim Henson’s movie “The Dark Crystal,” where bird-like creatures rejuvenate by consuming the essence of innocent beings. This analogy serves to illustrate how these ancient practices of sacrifice and control have been portrayed in modern media, reflecting a deep-seated and pervasive theme in human history.
Paul’s exploration reveals that these ancient stories are not merely historical relics but offer a lens to understand contemporary societal structures. These narratives of sacrifice and control have persisted, suggesting an ongoing, albeit covert, influence on modern civilization.
Prophets – enter a trance state
Transitioning to the topic of prophets in the Hebrew scriptures, Paul clarifies that the term “prophet” in its original context often meant a “seer” or someone who could enter a trance state to receive visions. This aligns with practices in other cultures where dance, music, and aromatic oils induce altered states of consciousness for prophetic experiences.
Paul references two Hebrew terms for prophets—one meaning a “seer” and another implying trance-induced vision—highlighting how these roles were integrated into the religious fabric of ancient societies.
Reincarnation
On the subject of reincarnation, Paul reflects on his transition from traditional Christian teachings, which largely dismiss reincarnation, to a broader perspective influenced by compelling testimonies and ancient philosophies.
He acknowledges the presence of reincarnation concepts in early Christian thought, influenced by Greek philosophy and figures like Plato, who argued for the continuity of consciousness beyond physical life. Paul notes that early Church Fathers such as Origen and Clement of Alexandria entertained the possibility of reincarnation, seeing it as compatible with the teachings of Jesus.
Paul’s narrative on Sodom and Gomorrah presents an unconventional interpretation. He suggests that the destruction of these cities, as described in Genesis, might have involved advanced technology rather than divine punishment.
The presence of beings with extraordinary abilities and weaponry hints at a narrative of colonization and control by powerful entities. Paul notes that the term “El Shaddai,” often translated as “the Almighty,” is more accurately rendered as “the Powerful One of the Mountain” or “the Destroyer,” reflecting the destructive capabilities attributed to this being.
The translation of “El Shaddai” remains uncertain, with some scholars suggesting it may also mean “the Powerful One of the Plains.”
In closing, Paul touches on the concept of spiritual helpers, a belief shared by many cultures worldwide. He recalls a biblical passage from Hebrews that speaks of spiritual ancestors surrounding and supporting individuals, a view echoed in various shamanic traditions.
Paul emphasizes that such experiences of guidance and support are universal, transcending cultural boundaries and providing a profound connection to the spiritual realm.
