A Study Of "Individualization" Of "Seven Sermons To The Dead"

The In the scholarly research on Gnosticism and Jungian analytical psychology,the two fields are often treated with clear boundaries,with few researchers delving into the connection between them.In fact,Gnosticism has played a significant role in the development of Jung’s psychological theories,providing historical support for his theories of the unconscious.Jung’s 1916 work,The Seven Sermons to the Dead is a prime example of the integration of Gnosticism and Jungian psychology,with the text’s vocabulary and structure revealing distinct Gnostic characteristics.Jung attributes the authorship of The Seven Sermons to the Dead to Basilides,a Gnostic figure from 2nd-century Alexandria,and sets the writing’s backdrop in Alexandria,indicating the Gnostic roots of the work.Jung connects Gnostic concepts with psychological theories,using the Pleroma to symbolize the Unconscious,the creatura to symbolize the Ego,and Abraxas to symbolize the Self.The conclusion of the text focuses on the ultimate goals of humanity,the innate nature of men and women,and proposes a path to individuation—the union of humans and stars.The first mandala that Jung created after completing The Seven Sermons to the Dead presents a psychological landscape similar to the Gnostic mythological cosmos,showcasing the early form of Jung’s theory of individuation.Jung’s interpretation of Gnosticism and his expression of individuation in The Seven Sermons to the Dead demonstrate the theoretical direction of analytical psychology,offering a fresh perspective on the interpretation of ancient Gnosticism and providing spiritual insights for modern people:focusing on mental health and maintaining one’s wholeness.