This essay, the Charlatan and the Magus is phenomenal. I have a few different things I want to post from it, but let’s start with this:

I am sure that, in terms of sheer numbers, the majority of mankind probably subscribes to some religion that insists that the world is an illusion; even our own scientists are increasingly making it seem like an illusion. And yet, when we want to find out about the world, so many of us still choose to seek the answers among those who search for absolute truth. Might you not find out more about the nature of an illusion by following those who deal with illusions? Might not the spiritual path lead through the world of mountebanks and charlatans, rather than away from it?

Great insights. From the gnostic perspective, this would make the archons into the good guys. There are a million and one other ways to talk about this in addition to that. I’ll try to sift through some different angles as the day goes on. [Thanks hebrides for the link]