Summary

In this episode, Julian explores the difference between religion and spirituality, particularly in the context of queer spirituality. He shares their personal experience of encountering a social media post that claimed religion and spirituality are the same. He discusses the dictionary definitions of religion and spirituality, highlighting the distinction between belief in a superhuman power and concern for the human spirit. Julian emphasizes that spirituality allows for a more direct and personal approach to the soul, while religion often involves rigid systems and exclusionary practices. He also discusses the role of queerness as a spiritual attribute and the importance of compassion in queer spirituality. The episode concludes with a reflection on the power of spirituality to build cohesive communities and celebrate diversity.

Takeaways

• Religion and spirituality are distinct concepts, with religion often involving belief in a superhuman power and adherence to a particular system of faith and worship, while spirituality focuses on the human spirit and soul.
• Spirituality allows for a more direct and personal approach to the soul, while religion can be rigid and exclusionary.
• Queerness can be seen as a spiritual attribute, providing a different perspective and facilitating access to spiritual realms.
• Compassion is a spiritual gift often associated with queerness, leading to acts of care and support for others.
• Religious trauma can hinder individuals from exploring their spirituality, but it is possible to find or create beliefs and practices that nourish the soul outside of organized religion.

Resources

The Queer Spirituality Website

Summary

Thumper Forge, a Gardnerian high priest, and Discordian Episkopos discusses the intersection of queer spirituality, leather and fetish culture, and chaos magic. Thumper shares their journey of becoming who they were meant to be through 12-step recovery and exploring different spiritual traditions. They emphasize the importance of community and finding acceptance within the queer community. Thumper also talks about their book 'Virgo Witch: Divining the Details' and the significance of embracing one's astrological sign. They encourage listeners to reject limitations imposed by others and to explore their own potential.

Takeaways

• Queer spirituality is about embracing the specialness and magic of queerness and becoming who we are meant to be as queer individuals.
• Community is essential for queer people, as it provides acceptance and support that may not be found in mainstream society.
• Embracing an eclectic spiritual path allows for exploration and personal growth, combining different traditions and practices that resonate with the individual.
• The history and origins of spiritual practices are important, but personal gnosis and individual experiences should also be valued.
• Comparison and self-doubt can hinder personal growth and potential. Embrace your own journey, and don't let others define your limitations.

Resources
Thumper's Website
Instagram
Facebook

Queer Spirituality Website

About The Guest(s):

Mawiyah Kai EL-Jamah Bomani is an award-winning writer, educator, and spirit woman. She is an 8th generation witch, Egun medium, and priestess of Oya in the Yoruba system of spirituality. Mawiyah is the editor-in-chief of the culture in Afrikan traditional spirituality e-zine Oya N'Soro. She is also the host of FishHeadsinRedGravy, a podcast dedicated to celebrating marginalized people of the esoteric occult world. Mawiyah's writings have appeared in numerous magazines, and she has won several awards for her plays and literary work. She currently lives in Louisiana, where she conducts rituals, consultations, workshops, and divinations.

Summary:

Mawiyah Kai EL-Jamah Bomani is a writer, educator, and spirit woman who practices Hoodoo, a form of African American folk magic. In this episode, she discusses the inclusive nature of Hoodoo and its acceptance of all sexual orientations and gender identities. She emphasizes the importance of embracing queer spirituality and creating a safe and inclusive space for all individuals. Mawiyah also talks about her book, "Conjuring the Calabash," which empowers women with hoodoo spells and magic. She shares her advice for navigating the current social and political climate, the significance of community, and the importance of listening and learning from different cultures and perspectives.

Key Takeaways:

• Queer spirituality should be inclusive and embrace all sexual orientations and gender identities.
• Hoodoo is a form of African American folk magic that is open to everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
• It is important to be grounded and connected to nature to navigate challenging times.
• Community plays a vital role in queer spirituality and provides support and understanding.
• It is essential to listen and learn from different cultures and perspectives to foster inclusivity and understanding.

Quotes:

• "Queer spirituality means to be inclusive, to have magic that includes everyone, so no one feels left out." - Mawiyah Kai EL-Jamah Bomani
• "The practice of Hoodoo is about including everyone and does not factor in a person's sexual orientation or their love." - Mawiyah Kai EL-Jamah Bomani
• "We have to keep talking about race relations, homophobia, and other issues to address and overcome them." - Mawiyah Kai EL-Jamah Bomani

Resources
Mawiyah's Website

Queer Spirituality Website