Watch The Serpent Cult: Origins of Sacred Religion

The Serpent Cult: Origins of Sacred Religion is a fascinating documentary film that delves deep into the roots and connections between ancient cultures and religions. Starring Philip Gardiner as both host and expert, the film takes viewers on a gripping journey through some of the most significant ancient sites, exploring the symbols and beliefs that have been passed down to us from these foundational cultures.

The documentary begins with an exploration of the concept of serpent worship. The serpent is a symbol that appears in virtually every religion and culture throughout history, from the ancient Egyptians to the Greeks, to the Hindu tradition and beyond. The film investigates the origins and meaning of this powerful ancient symbol, unveiling its multifaceted meanings, and the networks of connection that bind cultures and religions together.

As the narrative unfolds, we learn how the serpent has been used as a symbol of spiritual awakening and enlightenment and the different interpretations it has carried through the centuries. The film also explores the role the serpent has played in mythology, as well as some of the more grounded associations such as agriculture and fertility. Gardiner takes us through some of the different snake cults and snake gods originating from Mesopotamia and Persia, which bear similarities to the Greek and Egyptian serpent gods.

Through interviews with various experts, The Serpent Cult provides a deep exploration of the connections between various religions and cultures from around the world. We are introduced to concepts such as the Kundalini serpent, which is deeply connected to the practice of yoga and spiritual development in Hinduism. In this way, the film provides viewers with a unique understanding of how ancient cultures shared ideas and beliefs, and how the serpent served as a unifying symbol across different continents and cultures.

One of the highlights of the film is the exploration of the links between serpent and Sun worship. Gardiner examines the significance of the serpent's association with the Sun, and how believers viewed the serpent as a conduit between the world of the living and the gods, with the Sun serving as a symbol for both warmth and life-giving energy.

As the documentary approaches its conclusion, Gardiner explores the ways in which the ideas and symbols of ancient cultures have continued to influence beliefs and practices today. He examines the modern practice of the snake-handling churches of the southern United States, which can be traced directly back to early Gnostic belief. By the end of the film, viewers are left with a newfound appreciation of the complex interconnections between seemingly disparate cultures and religions.

Overall, The Serpent Cult provides a thrilling exploration of ancient cultures, beliefs, and symbols. Gardiner's deep knowledge and engaging presenting style makes the film both informative and entertaining, and the stunning visuals and cinematography allow the viewer to experience the awe-inspiring locations in which these ancient beliefs and symbols originated.

If you are interested in ancient cultures, mythology, and the history of religion, then The Serpent Cult: Origins of Sacred Religion is definitely a film you should not miss. It provides a deeper understanding of the universal themes that connect all of humanity, and the ways in which our past continues to shape the world we live in today.

The Serpent Cult: Origins of Sacred Religion is a 2018 science fiction movie with a runtime of 52 minutes.