🔵Esoteric Explorer - Paul Smith : 324

This week we are joined by Paul Smith.

Paul runs two YouTube channels, one focusing on esoteric research and the other exploring health and wellness. Paul also owns a UK based herb and supplement company, Nutrient Nirvana.

Find Paul here:
Esoteric Explorer Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@PaulSmith-esotericexplorer/featured
Nutrient Nirvana Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@nutrientnirvanahistoryheal2009/featured
Nutrient Nirvana Website - https://www.nutrientnirvana.co.uk/

From the web:
Western esotericism, also known as esotericism or the Western mystery tradition, encompasses a diverse array of loosely related ideas and movements that emerged within Western society. Here are some key points:

Origins and Development:
The earliest roots of Western esotericism can be traced back to the Eastern Mediterranean during Late Antiquity. During this period, distinct schools of thought such as Hermeticism, Gnosticism, and Neoplatonism emerged, setting them apart from mainstream Christianity.
Renaissance Europe witnessed a revival of interest in these older ideas. Intellectuals combined pagan philosophies with Kabbalah and Christian thought, leading to the emergence of movements like Christian Kabbalah and Christian theosophy.
The 17th century saw the rise of initiatory societies like Rosicrucianism and Freemasonry, which professed esoteric knowledge.
The 18th century Age of Enlightenment gave birth to new forms of esoteric thought.
In the 19th century, occultism gained prominence, with groups like the Theosophical Society and the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn playing significant roles.

Defining Esotericism:
Scholars have debated various definitions of Western esotericism.
Some view it as a perennial hidden inner tradition, while others see it as a category of movements embracing an “enchanted” worldview in response to increasing disenchantment.
Another perspective considers it as “rejected knowledge”—ideas neither accepted by the scientific establishment nor o..