The Chief Archon, the Papacy, and the Spirit of the Antichrist

The Chief Archon, the Papacy, and the Spirit of the Antichrist

In the Greek language, the word archon refers to a ruler, chief, or leader. In ancient Greek society, archons were principal magistrates, often holding significant political and judicial authority. The word archon carries the connotation of power and governance. In biblical and apocryphal texts, this term extends beyond just civil rulers, often being used metaphorically to describe spiritual leaders or figures that govern over belief systems. In the context of early Christianity, the archons also came to symbolize those who mislead or control the faithful, a role which would later be attributed to the Papacy.

"The rulers wanted to fool people, since they saw that people have a kinship with what is truly good. They took the names of the good and assigned them to what is not good, to fool people with names and link the names to what is not good. So, as if they were doing people a favor, they took names from what is not good and transferred them to the good, in their own way of thinking. For they wished to take free people and enslave them forever." (Gospel of Philip)

In this passage from the Gospel of Philip, the rulers (or archons) are described as those who deceive others by manipulating names and symbols. These rulers, referring here to the religious authorities, use names of goodness to create associations with what is inherently bad. They sought to lead the people away from true freedom and towards a false form of enslavement under their own control. This practice of deception through naming is a fundamental tool used by those in power to maintain control over others.

The rulers in this passage can be understood as the leaders of the Roman Catholic Church—the chief archon—who have used their positions to impose false doctrines and bind people to a distorted view of God. The Papacy and its system have historically represented the archons of Christianity, individuals who, by twisting the names of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, have established a false religious structure. They did not merely seek to deceive people with words; they used these names as masks to cover the truth of God’s unity and led many to worship a divided deity—an image of God distorted into three parts, which is not the true nature of God.

"They took the name of those that are good [holy] and gave it to those that are not good [false religious doctrines], so that through the names [the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—the false doctrine of the Trinity] they might deceive men and bind them to those that are not good." (Gospel of Philip)

Here, the archons are said to have taken the name of goodness—an essential part of the true God—and attributed it to false doctrines. The false doctrine of the Trinity, as taught by the Papacy, is the primary deception being referenced here. By baptizing individuals in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, the Papacy has essentially bound people to a false concept of God, obscuring the true, indivisible nature of God and replacing it with a divided and constructed "Trinitarian" deity. This false understanding of God, akin to a mask, has deceived countless followers into worshipping an image of God rather than the true, unified Creator.

The Papacy and its religious system have utilized this form of spiritual deception to gain power over individuals, ensuring that they remain bound to doctrines that mislead and oppress. These teachings, however, are not new—they have been part of the Antichrist spirit that works to lead people astray from the true knowledge of God. Just as the archons in the Gospel of Philip manipulated the names of the good for their own purposes, the Papacy has taken the names of holiness and used them to enforce its own teachings, thus keeping people enslaved to false beliefs.

"They created images or 'personas' of God in the form of the Trinity, using these false masks to deceive people. By assigning distinct 'faces' or 'roles' to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, they obscured the true, indivisible nature of God, leading people to believe in a divided deity."

The Trinity doctrine, a product of the Papacy and its religious influence, is an example of how these archons have used masks to deceive the faithful. By assigning different roles to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, they have created a distorted image of God. This deception binds people to a false understanding of God, leading them to worship a constructed persona rather than the true, unified Creator. The false image of God, represented by these masks, has been used to manipulate the faithful into serving an institution that seeks power and control, much like the archons in the Gospel of Philip.

The Papacy, as the chief archon, has perpetuated the spirit of the Antichrist by teaching doctrines that obscure the true nature of God. The Antichrist is not just a figure; it is a spirit of deception that denies the truth of God’s nature. By teaching the false doctrine of the Trinity, the Papacy has created a barrier between the people and the true God, leading them away from the path of salvation.

"These things they [the church leaders] knew, for they wanted to take the free man [ransomed, free from sin, born again, sanctified] and make him a slave to them forever."

The Papacy has continually sought to bind individuals to its system of control, using deception and false teachings to enslave them spiritually. The chief archon, the Papacy, has deceived people into believing in doctrines that lead them away from the truth of God and the freedom that comes from understanding His true nature. This manipulation of truth is the essence of the Antichrist spirit, which seeks to dominate and control, rather than liberate and reveal the truth of God’s love and freedom for His people.

The Papacy, with its false teachings and corrupt practices, embodies the spirit of the Antichrist. By distorting the image of God and deceiving the masses, the Papacy continues to fulfill its role as the chief archon, leading people away from the truth and into spiritual bondage. The false doctrine of the Trinity is just one example of how the Papacy has manipulated the names of the good to enslave people to a false understanding of God, binding them to a constructed image of the divine that is not true.

Yaldabaoth a Political Understanding

Yaldabaoth a Political Understanding 

An opening reading 


Ezekiel 28:1 The word of the Lord came to me again, saying, 2 “Son of man, say to the prince of Tyre, ‘Thus says the Lord God: “Because your heart is lifted up, And you say, ‘I am a god, I sit in the seat of gods, In the midst of the seas,’ Yet you are a man, and not a god, Though you set your heart as the heart of a god 3 (Behold, you are wiser than Daniel! There is no secret that can be hidden from you! 4 With your wisdom and your understanding You have gained riches for yourself, And gathered gold and silver into your treasuries; 5 By your great wisdom in trade you have increased your riches, And your heart is lifted up because of your riches),”

On account of the reality of the authorities, (inspired) by the spirit of the father of truth, the great apostle – referring to the "authorities of the darkness" – told us that "our contest is not against flesh and blood; rather, the authorities of the universe and the spirits of wickedness." I have sent this (to you) because you inquire about the reality of the authorities. The Hypostasis of the Archons

Since that day, the heaven has been consolidated along with its earth by means of Sophia, the daughter of Yaldabaoth, who is beneath them all. After the heavens and their powers and all of their government set themselves aright, the chief creator exalted himself and was glorified by the whole army of angels. And all the gods and their angels gave him praise and glory. On the Origin of the World

Gnostic Myths and Political Allegory in Light of Ezekiel 28

Introduction:

Gnostic scriptures, often conveyed through myths, delve into the complexities of power, rebellion, and the human psyche. The Gnostic scriptures carry layers of symbolic meanings that connect with socio-political realities, much like the allegorical dimensions found in Ezekiel 28. These myths, often misunderstood as mere fictitious tales, are detailed reflections of the social, political, and ideological landscapes of their times.

Myth as a Reflection of Mental Patterns: Myths are more than just stories; they reflect inherent patterns in human consciousness. These accounts often symbolize fixed mental structures, emphasizing contrasts like good versus evil or compassion versus cruelty, rather than unconscious feelings or desires.

Myths as Charters for Cultural Norms: Some myths, especially origin stories, serve as mythic charters that legitimize cultural norms and social institutions. They provide a foundational narrative that underpins the values and practices of a society.

Myths and Power Dynamics: Mythology is closely interconnected with power structures, political systems, and economic interests. Myths can be used as tools to reinforce or challenge existing power dynamics within a society.

Political Myths: Political myths specifically deal with political themes and typically revolve around a group of people who are portrayed as heroes or villains. These narratives often offer an ideologically charged account of a community's past, present, and future.

The majority of Gnostic scriptures take on the form of myths, but it's crucial to clarify that when using the term "myth," we don't imply falsehood. Instead, these myths convey truths of a different nature than theological dogmas or philosophical statements.

Myth as a Tool of Power and Legitimization:

Gnostic myths, including the Apocryphon of John, serve as narratives legitimizing cultural norms and societal institutions, much like how Ezekiel 28 conveys political themes through its metaphorical language. Myths, interpreted as fixed mental structures representing opposing forces, shape understanding and wield significant influence in the socio-political realm.

The Role of Myths in Gnostic Texts

Why do Gnostic texts for the most part employ myths? The answer lies in the historical context of Gnostic Christians who faced severe persecution, initially by the Roman Empire and later by orthodox Christian authorities. Unlike many early Christians who embraced martyrdom, Gnostic Christians rejected this path.

The Testimony of Truth highlights this departure from martyrdom, criticizing those who choose to be martyrs. It suggests that becoming "perfected" through martyrdom is an incomplete path. Instead, it implies that such individuals merely bear witness to themselves without achieving spiritual advancement.

Political Myths and Social Ideologies:

Like the Gnostic myths centred on opposition to political structures, Ezekiel 28 resonates with the portrayal of an arrogant ruler claiming divine status. Both accounts provide an ideologically marked account of past, present, and future, reflecting the political community's identity, much like the Gnostics' rejection of martyrdom in favour of a different ideological stance.

Gnostic Mythology and Resistance to Political Order:

The Gnostic texts, born from persecution by the Romans and rejection by orthodox Christian authorities, the Gnostic texts symbolize a revolt against established political systems. Likewise, Gnostic myths function as a mode of defiance, actively challenging the existing political order.

Allegorical Readings and Political Commentary:

An allegorical interpretation of Gnostic myths, like the Apocryphon of John, unveils parallels with the claims of Roman emperors. Just as Ezekiel 28:1-3 highlights the King of Tyre's excessive pride, these Gnostic texts are allegorically the Roman emperors' assertions of divine authority, echoing the deceptive doublespeak ingrained in imperial rule.

Interpreting Gnostic Myths

When interpreting Gnostic myths, it is crucial not to isolate them from the social, political, and economic factors that influenced their creation. The authors of Gnostic texts rejected the legitimacy of existing political orders. Gnosticism emerged as a response from a politically marginalized intellectual elite in the eastern regions of the Roman Empire during the second and first centuries CE.

These Gnostics overtly challenged the political structures of their time. While they did not explicitly detail the political views or activities of these individuals, their myths, featuring tyrannical creator-archons, serve as veiled political protests. These myths call on those living under oppressive power to rise against it.

Conclusion:

The Gnostic myths, similar to the allegorical representation in Ezekiel 28, serve as potent tools to challenge exsting socio-political structures. Their detailed accounts, misunderstood as mere stories, reflect a powerful resistance against oppressive political orders, shedding light on the ideological and power struggles of their times. The allegorical lens unveils a potential critique within these texts, offering a nuanced understanding of political resistance intertwined with mythic storytelling.

Political Deification and Cosmic Rebellion: A Gnostic Interpretation of Ezekiel 28

Secret Book of John

This gloomy ruler has three names: the first name is Yaldabaoth, the second is Sakla, the third is Samael.

He is wicked in his mindlessness that is in him. He said, I am god and there is no other god but me, since he did not know where his own strength had come from

The Reality of the Rulers (The Hypostasis of the Archons)

Their chief is blind. Because of his power and his ignorance and his arrogance, he said, with his power, “I am god; there is no other but me.”

Introduction:

The biblical passage in Ezekiel 28 has been a subject of diverse interpretations, with some scholars drawing connections between the arrogance of rulers and the elevation of political figures to near-divine status. In this discourse, we delve into the Gnostic perspective, particularly examining the Apocryphon of John and its portrayal of Yaldabaoth, a cosmic entity associated with political power and rulership.

Yaldabaoth as a Political Image:

The Apocryphon of John paints a graphic picture of Yaldabaoth, a cosmic ruler associated with political imagery, specifically likened to the Roman emperors. Stationing seven kings over the heavens and five over the abyss, Yaldabaoth is portrayed as a figure who shares his fire but retains the power of light from his mother, representing an ignorant darkness.

Gnostic Cosmology:

The Gnostic narrative unfurls with a cosmic interplay of light and darkness, highlighting the duality emerging from the mingling of these forces. Yaldabaoth, also recognized as Sakla or Samael, asserts his divinity by declaring, "I am God." This declaration resonates with Ezekiel 28, where the King of Tyre similarly affirms, "I am a god, I sit in the seat of God." Drawing parallels between Yaldabaoth and earthly rulers, such as King Nebuchadnezzar in Isaiah 14 and Judith 3:8, 6:12, Antiochus Epiphanies in Daniel 11:36, Herod in Acts 12:21-23, and the transformative journey of figures like Julius Caesar and Augustus, Caligula and Nero (with Nero symbolizing the antichrist in typology) in Ascension of Isaiah 4:6-8. This transformation from men to Gods, within the thought world of the cosmic order, aligns with Yaldabaoth's bold claim, "I am God."

The Deification of Rome:

A key aspect of this Gnostic interpretation is the association of Samael with Rome, particularly the Roman angel or prince. Drawing from Jewish texts like the Ascension of Isaiah and the Third Book of Enoch, Samael becomes the symbolic representation of the Roman Empire's divine authority. The Gnostic rejection of political legitimacy is reflected in their view of Samael as the angel of Rome, challenging the ideals propagated by the Roman rulers.

Samael in Jewish Texts:

Jewish texts from the same period identify Samael with the angel of Edom, a reference to Rome. This cosmic connection between angels and earthly nations provides a context for interpreting Samael's role in the Gnostic worldview. The angelic embodiment of Rome, coupled with the rejection of political order, underscores the Gnostic rejection of the Roman Empire's claims to peace and justice.

Gnostic Resistance:

The Gnostic texts, emerging as a response to political marginalization in the Roman Empire, express a rejection of the legitimacy of political authority. The irony of Rome's claim to a peaceful reign, juxtaposed with the violence and displacement used to maintain control, reflects the Gnostic critique of the Empire's lofty ideals. The Gnostics perceive Roman virtues like peace, justice, and wisdom as veiled expressions of war, injustice, and ignorance for those under Roman rule.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Gnostic interpretation of Ezekiel 28, as reflected in the Apocryphon of John, presents a cosmic narrative intertwining political power, angelic entities, and the rejection of earthly rulership. By aligning Yaldabaoth with Rome and drawing parallels between the King of Tyre and other historical rulers, the Gnostics offer a unique lens through which to view the complexities of cosmic rebellion and political resistance in the ancient world.

The Allegorical Lens: Roman Emperors as Yaldabaoth

Consider the possibility of reading texts like the Apocryphon of John allegorically, interpreting Yaldabaoth as a representation of Roman emperors who claimed divine status and rulership over the world. In this interpretation, the term "Cosmocrator," meaning "lord or ruler of the world," parallels the contemporary Greek belief that rulers and authorities were controlled by malevolent forces.

The Apostle Paul's words in Ephesians 6:12&13, urging individuals to combat spiritual wickedness in high places, become a call to resist the manipulative machinations of emperors and authorities.

Notably, the Apocryphon of John assigns Yaldabaoth multiple names, including Saklas and Samael. The association of Samael with the angel of Rome aligns with the ancient belief that heavenly battles corresponded to earthly nations.

In the ancient world, politics and religiosity were deeply interconnected. Rather than solely viewing the material world as a realm where divine sparks are trapped, it becomes conceivable to interpret these Gnostic texts as critiques of Roman emperors' claims to godhood and their creation of a world in their image.

Yaldabaoth, in this context, symbolizes an arrogant ruler who ensnares people within the structures of the political system. This perspective prompts us to question the spiritual implications of such entanglement and offers a nuanced lens through which to understand the complex relationship between religion and politics within Gnostic narratives.

A Description of Yaltabaoth

And when she saw (the consequences of) her desire, it changed into a form of a lion-faced serpent. And its eyes were like lightning fires which flash. She cast it away from her, outside that place, that no one of the immortal ones might see it, for she had created it in ignorance. And she surrounded it with a luminous cloud, and she placed a throne in the middle of the cloud that no one might see it except the holy Spirit who is called the mother of the living. And she called his name Yaltabaoth. (The Apocryphon of John)

And when Pistis Sophia desired to cause the thing that had no spirit to be formed into a likeness and to rule over matter and over all her forces, there appeared for the first time a ruler, out of the waters, lion-like in appearance, androgynous, having great authority within him, and ignorant of whence he had come into being. Now when Pistis Sophia saw him moving about in the depth of the waters, she said to him, "Child, pass through to here," whose equivalent is 'yalda baoth'. (On the Origin of the World)

Since that day, there appeared the principle of verbal expression, which reached the gods and the angels and mankind. And what came into being as a result of verbal expression, the gods and the angels and mankind finished. Now as for the ruler Yaltabaoth, he is ignorant of the force of Pistis: he did not see her face, rather he saw in the water the likeness that spoke with him. And because of that voice, he called himself 'Yaldabaoth'. But 'Ariael' is what the perfect call him, for he was like a lion. Now when he had come to have authority over matter, Pistis Sophia withdrew up to her light. (On the Origin of the World)

Within Gnostic texts, Yaldabaoth embodies a symbolic representation reminiscent of a lion or a lion-faced serpent, both emblematic of kingship, rulership, and imperial power.

Yaldabaoth, as the ruler of the world, personifies the human ego, emerging as a manifestation within the political heavens.

This entity, representing ignorance rooted in the ego, arises when rationality succumbs to the influence of emotions or external senses.

Yaldabaoth: A Gnostic Symbol of Ego and Political Power

Introduction:

In Gnostic thought, Yaldabaoth emerges as a complex symbol representing the lord of this world, influencing the human condition and shaping psychological existence. This discussion explores the Gnostic perspective on Yaldabaoth, portraying this cosmic entity as the shadow of ego development and an archetype integral to human consciousness.

Yaldabaoth and the Ego:

For the Gnostics, the development of the individual ego is intertwined with the influence of Yaldabaoth. This cosmic figure becomes the archetype that propels human consciousness towards the formation of a focal narcissistic ego. Yaldabaoth, as the lord of this world, defines the human will and intellect, leading to the development of individual judgment and rulership.

The Will and Intellectual Learning:

Yaldabaoth's representation in individuals manifests as the human will and intellect, potent up to a certain point. Those embodying Yaldabaoth characteristics often exhibit reluctance to stand on their own judgment, seeking external sources for decision-making. The Gnostic view likens these individuals to rulers who rule arbitrarily, refusing to tap into their own wisdom. This behaviour can lead to a regression to an animal-instinct plane of consciousness, as observed in Daniel 5:21.

Yaldabaoth as a Symbol of Human Consciousness:

In Gnostic cosmology, Yaldabaoth symbolizes human consciousness, both individually and collectively in organized opposition to God. The lion-faced serpent imagery emphasizes Yaldabaoth's connection to the civil and military power of the Roman Empire. The serpent, representing the flesh in political manifestation, becomes identified with the civil and military authority of a supposedly Christianized Empire under Constantine. (Isa. 27:1; Ezek, 29:3; Jer. 51:34; Job 41:1),

Lion Symbolism in the Bible:

The Gnostic interpretation draws on biblical symbolism, where lions are associated with fierce and predatory characteristics. Wicked individuals, nations, false prophets, and oppressive rulers are depicted as lions in various biblical passages (wicked ones (Ps 10:9), persons who oppose God and his people (Ps 22:13; 35:17; 57:4; Jer 12:8), false prophets (Eze 22:25), wicked rulers and princes (Pr 28:15; Zep 3:3), the Babylonian World Power (Da 7:4). The lion's mouth is also employed to describe the seven-headed, ten-horned wild beast in Revelation 13:2, further aligning with the Gnostic view of Yaldabaoth.

The Sea Symbolism:

Yaldabaoth's ascent from the sea mirrors biblical symbolism where the sea represents nations and empires. (Isa. 57:20; Jer. 51:13 Rev. 17:15 ) Rising from the waters signifies the exercise of power over nations and international influence. The imagery parallels the Beast described in Revelation 13:1, emphasizing the political connotations of Yaldabaoth's symbolism.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Gnostic interpretation of Yaldabaoth offers a unique perspective on the interplay between ego development, political power, and cosmic symbolism. Yaldabaoth, as the lord of this world, becomes a powerful symbol in the Gnostic worldview, intimately linked to the human condition and the challenges of rulership in opposition to divine principles.

Original text

What are Myths

Since the term myth is widely used to imply that a story is not objectively true, the identification of a narrative as a myth can be highly political:

Myths reflect patterns in the mind and we interpret those patterns more as fixed mental structures, specifically pairs of opposites (good/evil, compassionate/callous), rather than unconscious feelings or urges.

Myths such as origin stories might provide a "mythic charter"—a legitimisation—for cultural norms and social institutions.

Myth is a form of understanding and telling stories that are connected to power, political structures, and political and economic interests.

Political myths simply deal with political topics and always use a group of people as the hero or protagonist

A myth is considered a political myth when the narrative provides an ideologically marked account of the past, present, and future of the political community.

One finds that most Gnostic scriptures take the form of myths. The term “myth” should not here be taken to mean “stories that are not true”, but rather, that the truths embodied in these myths are of a different order from the dogmas of theology or the statements of philosophy.

Why myths?

Why would the Gnostic text use myths the answer is because of persecution!

Gnostic Christians have been heavily persecuted, first by the Roman Empire and for centuries afterwards by orthodox Christian authorities

The Gnostic Christians rejected martyrdom

The Testimony of Truth They are blind guides, like the disciples. They boarded the ship; at about thirty stadies, they saw Jesus walking on the sea. These are empty martyrs since they bear witness only to themselves. And yet they are sick, and they are not able to raise themselves.

But when they are "perfected" with a (martyr's) death, this is the thought that they have within them: "If we deliver ourselves over to death for the sake of the Name we will be saved." These matters are not settled in this way. But through the agency of the wandering stars they say they have "completed" their futile "course", and [...] say, [...]. But these [...] they have delivered themselves ...
... (7 lines unrecoverable)

How does one Interpret the Gnostic myths?

Interpretation should not take place in isolation, of the social, political, and economic factors which influenced how the writers wrote these texts.

The writers of the Gnostic texts were rejecting the legitimacy of all political order, ancient Gnosticism arose as a reaction of a politically marginalized intellectual elite in the eastern regions of the Roman Empire in the second and first centuries C.E.

The Gnostics were explicit in revolt against the political structures of their age, and/or they showed little or no interest in surrounding society, or had even somehow radically severed their connections with society or were at least completely indifferent to the political well-being and future of society?

Gnostics never made any direct testimony about the political views or activity of these people, but rather in their myths about demiurges. In the mythic characters of tyrannical creator-archons. These demiurgical myths are veiled political protests, calling people who live under such power to rebellion. World rejection was therefore equivalent to the rejection of the legitimacy of all political structures in the world or the political structure of the Roman Empire.

Though the Roman rulers claimed  peaceful reign the violence intimidation and displacement used to maintain this piece made it ironic the lofty ideals with which the Empire framed itself were a type of double-speak for those under its rule The Peace of the Roman Empire meant War for those subjected by it Justice meant injustice Wisdom meant ignorance

What if the texts, such as the Apocryphon of John, were meant to be read allegorically, symbolizing the Roman emperors' assertions of divinity and their claims as saviors of the world, suggesting they've crafted the known world in their likeness? What if this aspect forms a significant part of the narrative?

for instance, the Apocryphon of John describes Yaldabaoth as a political image of the Roman emperor

"Cosmocrator" was the title of the Roman emperor, meaning "lord or ruler of the world", and contemporary Greek thought was, that rulers and authorities, were controlled by demonic forces of evil. The apostle Paul declares that the evil machinations of the emperor and those in high authority can be overcome, by putting on the whole panoply of God, which is described in the verses that follow as: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, sandals of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit. 

Ephesians 6:12&13 - "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood ['haimakai surka'], but against principalities ['archas', 'rulers'], against powers ['exousias', 'authorities'], against the rulers ['tous kosmokratoras'. 'world rulers'] of the darkness of the world, against spiritual wickedness in high places ['ta pneumatika tes ponerias en tois epouraniois', 'the spiritual hosts of evil in the heavenlies']. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God ['ten panoplian tou theou'], that you may be able to stand in the evil day ['te hemera te ponera'], and having done all, to stand."

The Apocryphon of John Now this weak ruler has three names. The first name is Yaltabaoth. The second is Saklas. The third is Samael. He is impious in his Madness, she who dwells in him. For he said, am God and no other god exists except me,' since he is ignorant of the place from which his strength had come.

In the ancient world politics and religiosity are not two separate things they're part and parcel of one another and interwoven with one another and what might it mean instead of saying you know instead of saying this horrible material world where these divine sparks are trapped what if this was was about the Roman emperors in particular.

What if we consider Yaldabaoth as an embodiment of an overbearing ruler, akin to a Roman emperor, ensnaring people within the structures of a political system? How might this impact our spiritual understanding and perception of such circumstances?

Understanding the religious, political, social, and cultural significance embedded in the Gnostic texts is crucial in reshaping our interpretation. Neglecting these contextual layers inhibits a comprehensive comprehension of the myths.

It's essential to delve into the intricate interconnections among these facets of human existence, evident in the characters of Adam and Eve within these texts. They embody the complexities woven into human life.

The pursuit of transcending this world's disorder involves attaining extraordinary insight, knowledge, or understanding—a state referred to as gnosis.

To escape this disorder of the world one can transcend it by extraordinary insight, learning, or knowledge, called a gnosis

Ialdabaoth Greek Ιαλνταμπαόθ Yaldabaoth Hebrew ילדאבהות (Literally "Children of the Void," or Children of the Abyss (depth of the waters) from ילדה = yalda= child; בהו = bohu = void; אבהות = abbott = fatherhood, parentage, paternity).

a description of Yaltabaoth

And when she saw (the consequences of) her desire, it changed into a form of a lion-faced serpent. And its eyes were like lightning fires which flash. She cast it away from her, outside that place, that no one of the immortal ones might see it, for she had created it in ignorance. And she surrounded it with a luminous cloud, and she placed a throne in the middle of the cloud that no one might see it except the holy Spirit who is called the mother of the living. And she called his name Yaltabaoth.

The Apocryphon of John

And when Pistis Sophia desired to cause the thing that had no spirit to be formed into a likeness and to rule over matter and over all her forces, there appeared for the first time a ruler, out of the waters, lion-like in appearance, androgynous, having great authority within him, and ignorant of whence he had come into being. Now when Pistis Sophia saw him moving about in the depth of the waters, she said to him, "Child, pass through to here," whose equivalent is 'yalda baoth'.

On the Origin of the World

Since that day, there appeared the principle of verbal expression, which reached the gods and the angels and mankind. And what came into being as a result of verbal expression, the gods and the angels and mankind finished. Now as for the ruler Yaltabaoth, he is ignorant of the force of Pistis: he did not see her face, rather he saw in the water the likeness that spoke with him. And because of that voice, he called himself 'Yaldabaoth'. But 'Ariael' is what the perfect call him, for he was like a lion. Now when he had come to have authority over matter, Pistis Sophia withdrew up to her light.

On the Origin of the World

In the Gnostic scriptures Yaldabaoth is described as a lion or a lion-faced serpent these are symbols of kings rulers and empires

O Ialdabaoth, who art the ruler of the world, Yaldabaoth is a personification of the human ego manifested in the political heavens

Yaldabaoth (ignorance via the ego) is created when reason follows the emotions or outward senses

I am God

Secret Book of John
This gloomy ruler has three names: the first name is Yaldabaoth, the second is Sakla, the third is Samael.

He is wicked in his mindlessness that is in him. He said, I am god and there is no other god but me, since he did not know where his own strength had come from.

Yaldabaoth is also referred to as Sakla or Samael. Samael God of the Romes in Jewish texts see the Ascension of Isaiah and the third book of Enoch Sammael is identified with the angel of Edom (Rome) the prince arkon of the Roman people is also frequently given the title of Prince of the world

The Reality of the Rulers (The Hypostasis of the Archons)

Their chief is blind. Because of his power and his ignorance and his arrogance, he said, with his power, “I am god; there is no other but me.”

On the Origin of the World

Since that day, the heaven has been consolidated along with its earth by means of Sophia, the daughter of Yaldabaoth, who is beneath them all. After the heavens and their powers and all of their government set themselves aright, the chief creator exalted himself and was glorified by the whole army of angels. And all the gods and their angels gave him praise and glory.

And he rejoiced in his heart, and he boasted continually, saying to them, “I do not need anything. I am god and there is no other god but me.” But when he said these things, he sinned against all of the immortal imperishable ones, and they kept their eyes on him.

the statement I am God comes from Ezekiel 28 Yaldabaoth is described as proclaiming himself to be God or saying I am God this is a reference to the Deification of the Rome Emperors the same is also said of the King of Tyre Ezekiel 28:2 Son of man, say unto the prince of Tyre, Thus saith the Lord Yahweh: Because thy heart is lifted up, and thou hast said, I am a god, I sit in the seat of God, in the midst of the seas; yet thou art man, and not God, though thou didst set thy heart as the heart of God

The arrogant statement by Yaldabaoth the chief archon I am God should be explained in terms of Isaiah 14 a lamentation for the King of Babylon. in Ezekiel 28:2,9 the king of Tyre said "I am god" Notice other arrogant rulers who claimed to be divine or were acclaimed as gods King Nebuchadnezzar in Judith 3:8 6:12 Antiochus Epiphanies in Daniel 11:36 Herod in Acts 12:21-23 thus the transformation of Julius Caesar and Augustus, Caligula and Nero (Nero is symbol of the antichrist in typology) in Ascension of Isaiah 4:6-8 from men to Gods which in the thought world of the cosmologies would be akin to Yaldabaoth's claim I am God. 

The Gnostics held that Yaldabaoth was the lord of this world who dominates the human condition. Yaldabaoth defines human psychological existence. humans are of necessity ego-bound in the sense of being required to develop an individual ego for the gnostics the figure of Yaldabaoth is the shadow of ego development. Yaldabaoth is the archetype that creates and sustains an inevitable development within human consciousness toward the formation of the focal narcissistic ego.

Yaldabaoth represents in us the human will and intellect; this brings about human judgment. A ruler always represents some function of the will. The Will entrenched in intellectual learning, giving its full attention to material subjects, is very powerful up to a certain point. The world is full of these Yaldabaoth people. 

They are loath to stand on their own judgment in any matter. When a decision is required of them they fly to some oracle. It may be a friend whose good advice they ask or a medium, or they may even resort to the tossing of a coin or the cutting of a deck of cards. They are willful and they rule arbitrarily. Refusing to bring forth their own good judgment, they become mendacious and tyrannical. The ultimate of this sort of action is a return to the animal-instinct plane of consciousness, as described in Daniel 5:21.

Mankind animal characteristic

Mankind has observed the characteristics and habits of animals and has applied them in a figurative or symbolic sense to persons, peoples, governments, and organizations. Thus Yaldabaoth is a symbol of human consciousness individually and organised collectively (that is politically) in opposition to God

The lion-faced serpent The "serpent" represents the civil, or military power of the Roman Empire. The word is also rendered leviathan (Isa. 27:1; Ezek, 29:3; Jer. 51:34; Job 41:1), and is used as representing the flesh in political manifestation.

Finally, when Constantine transferred his civil and military headquarters from Rome to Constantinople (previously the very centre of pagan resistance), the "serpent" became identified with the civil and military power of a so-called Christianised Empire.

In the Bible wicked people and nations are described as a lion

.Because of the lion’s fierce and predatory characteristics, the animal was also used to represent wicked ones (Ps 10:9), persons who oppose God and his people (Ps 22:13; 35:17; 57:4; Jer 12:8), false prophets (Eze 22:25), wicked rulers and princes (Pr 28:15; Zep 3:3), the Babylonian World Power (Da 7:4). And the seven-headed, ten-horned wild beast out of the sea, which gets its authority from the dragon, was depicted as having a lion’s mouth. (Re 13:2) At Psalm 91:13 the lion and the cobra seem to denote the power of the enemy, the lion being representative of open attack and the cobra of underhanded scheming, or attacks from a concealed place.—Compare Lu 10:19; 2Co 11

The dragon stood on the shore of the sea. And I saw a beast coming out of the sea. It had ten horns and seven heads, with ten crowns on its horns, and on each head a blasphemous name.

Rev 13:2 And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.

Like the Beast in Rev 13:1 Yaldabaoth is described as ascending out of the sea there appeared for the first time a ruler, out of the waters, lion-like in appearance the beast of the sea

And when she saw (the consequences of) her desire, it changed into a form of a lion-faced serpent.

And when Pistis Sophia desired to cause the thing that had no spirit to be formed into a likeness and to rule over matter and over all her forces, there appeared for the first time a ruler, out of the waters, lion-like in appearance,

The "Seas" Sea is symbolic of nations and empires (Isa. 57:20; Jer. 51:13 Rev. 17:15 ). it is international in its influence; it dominates "the waters," or nations. To rise out of the waters is to exercise power over them


Yaldabaoth is not Yahweh but represents the carnal mind or the ego

Yaldabaoth is a personification of human nature

Yaldabaoth describes human psychological existence

the figure of Yaldabaoth is the shadow of ego development Yaldabaoth is the archetype that creates and sustains an inevitable development within human consciousness toward the formation of the focal narcissistic ego

The Holy Hebdomad Isaiah 11:2–3

The Holy Hebdomad Isaiah 11:2–3

Let's commence our exploration with a passage from The Gospel of the Egyptians:

"The perfect hebdomad, shrouded in hidden mysteries, attains fulfillment. Upon receiving glory, it expands into eleven ogdoads."

Originating from Late Latin, "hebdomada" signifies the number seven or a group of seven, particularly denoting a period of seven days or a week, including the seventh day or Sabbath. This term derives from Ancient Greek "hebdomás," which denotes a group of seven, especially referencing seven days or seven years, composed of "heptá" meaning seven, and the suffix "-ás," forming abstract number-related nouns. Notably, cognates of this term exist in French, Portuguese, and Spanish, signifying a weekly periodical or events occurring on a weekly basis.

In the Orthodox Church, a hebdomadary holds a distinct role akin to that of the Roman Catholic Church. This individual, appointed for a week's duration, assumes responsibility for singing the chapter Mass and guiding the recitation of the breviary within a church or monastery setting. Within Roman Catholic chapters or convents, a hebdomadary similarly fulfills the duty of leading the chapter Mass and overseeing the recitation of the canonical hours, embodying a temporary appointment for the week.

Biblical Usage

The term "hebdomad" originates from the Ancient Greek ἑβδομάς (hebdomás) and is comparable to the Latin hebdomas.

In various biblical passages, the term appears with variations denoting periods of sevens:

- Exodus 34:22 references "εβδομάδων" as a period of sevens.

- Leviticus 23:15 mentions "εβδομάδας," signifying periods of seven.

- Leviticus 23:16 uses "εβδομάδος" to denote a period of seven.

- Leviticus 25:8 discusses "εβδομάδες," representing periods of seven.

- Numbers 28:26 refers to "εβδομάδων" as four periods of sevens.

- Daniel 9:24-27 includes several instances of "εβδομάδες," indicating periods of seven.

For instance, Leviticus 25:8 reads: "'And you must count for yourself seven sabbaths of years, seven times seven years, and the days of the seven sabbaths of years must amount to forty-nine years for you."

In the Greek text, it appears as follows: "Καὶ ἐξαριθμήσεις σεαυτῷ ἑπτὰ ἀναπαύσεις αὐτῶν, ἑπτὰ ἔτη ἑπτάκις, καὶ ἔσονταί σοι ἑπτά ἑβδομάδες ἐτῶν ἐννέα καὶ τεσσαράκοντα ἔτη."

The term "sabbaths of years" translates from the Greek "hebdomadeseton," meaning "weeks of years." This usage is comparable to other instances in the book of Daniel, highlighting the consistent biblical usage of the term "hebdomad" to signify periods of seven.

The number seven originates from the Hebrew word "SAVAH," denoting ceasing, resting, or celebration. Derived from the verb "shavath," meaning rest or cease, the Hebrew expression "yohm hash·shab·bath´" signifies the Sabbath, a day of rest on the seventh day.

Throughout biblical narratives, God establishes the significance of the number seven, illustrating rest and completion. The Sabbath, observed on the seventh day, symbolizes rest and cessation from labor (Exodus 20:10; Leviticus 25:2, 6, 8).

In Hebrew, the term for "week" (shavua`) signifies a sevenfold unit or period, echoing the concept of seven. Similarly, the Greek word "sabbaton" derives from the Hebrew word for Sabbath (shabbath´), reinforcing the association with rest and cessation.

Luke 18:12 references fasting "twice in the week," utilizing the Greek word "sabbaton," encompassing both the Sabbath day and other days of the week, akin to the notion of a seven-day period.

The Jewish Sabbath, observed from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday, is named after the planet Saturn, reflecting the Roman designation of Saturday as "Sāturni diēs" ("Saturn's Day").

The mystical significance of the number seven is pervasive, rooted in ancient astronomy and religious beliefs. It symbolizes the seven planetary spheres and the rulership of the heavenly realms. In pre-Christian religions, the concept of seven rulers or archontes, often associated with archangels, signifies cosmic order and divine governance.

In modern Greek, the seven-day week is referred to as an "hebdomada," highlighting the enduring influence of the number seven in religious and cultural contexts.

"Hebdomas" connotes the kingdom of the "Seven," representing the authority of the seven archangels, as delineated in the First Book of Enoch. Thus, the number seven holds profound significance across various traditions, embodying themes of rest, completion, and celestial order.

The term "hebdomad," originating from the Greek for "group of seven," denotes the seventh planetary sphere or seventh heaven, believed to be the realm of the archons or rulers in Gnostic cosmology. The chief archon, or Demiurge, is sometimes associated with the hebdomad, although occasionally linked with the Ogdoad, another grouping of seven.

In Proverbs 9:1, the mention of "Wisdom" constructing her house with seven pillars is interpreted by Valentinians as a reference to the planetary heavens, where Sophia, the embodiment of divine wisdom, resides. According to Valentinian beliefs, Sophia's abode is positioned above the hebdomad within the Ogdoad, a higher spiritual realm.

The passage from the Extracts from the Works of Theodotus further elaborates on the concept, portraying Wisdom as the architect of creation. Through the agency of a divine figure, symbolizing the image of the Father, Wisdom brings forth both heavenly and earthly realms. This imagery underscores the role of Wisdom in shaping the cosmos and establishing order within the divine hierarchy.

Overall, the notion of the hebdomad as the dwelling place of archons and the celestial abode of Wisdom reflects Gnostic cosmological beliefs, highlighting the interconnectedness of spiritual principles and celestial spheres within their theological framework.

The concept of the Hebdomad encompasses both the seven archangels and the seven heavens, reflecting a symbolic and spiritual understanding deeply rooted in ancient texts.

In the Book of Tobit from the Old Testament Apocrypha, Raphael identifies himself as one of the seven angels who stand in the glorious presence of the Lord, emphasizing the existence of seven archangels alongside Michael and Gabriel.

Similarly, the Book of Enoch lists seven holy angels who watch over various aspects of creation, including Uriel, Raphael, Raguel, Michael, Saraqael, Gabriel, and Ramael, further reinforcing the idea of a divine septet.

The significance of the seven pillars is often interpreted as representing the seven virtues, as outlined in Isaiah 11:2–3. These virtues, including wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, godliness, and the fear of Yahweh, are associated with the Seven Spirits of God mentioned in the Book of Revelation.

In Isaiah 11:2–3, the Spirit of God is described as resting upon the Messiah, imbuing him with the seven virtues. This connection between the virtues and the natural world is further explored by early Christian theologians like Irenaeus, who utilized number symbolism to elucidate spiritual truths.

According to Irenaeus, the virtues symbolize the seven heavens, drawing a parallel between the divine order and the structure of creation. This interpretation aligns with the biblical narrative, where Moses is instructed to fashion a seven-branched lampstand, reflecting the heavenly model revealed to him on the mountain.

Overall, the concept of the Hebdomad encapsulates the interconnectedness of celestial beings, virtues, and heavenly realms, serving as a symbolic framework to understand divine order and spiritual truths.

In his work "The Proof of Apostolic Preaching," Irenaeus delves into the interconnectedness of scripture, the natural world, and divine symbolism. Drawing from Isaiah 11:2–3, Irenaeus, like the Valentinians, employs number symbolism to elucidate spiritual truths, particularly focusing on the manifestation of seven virtues upon the Messiah.

According to Isaiah 11:2–3, the Spirit of God will rest upon the Messiah, imbuing him with seven virtues: wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, godliness, and the fear of Yahweh. Irenaeus interprets these virtues as referring to the seven heavens, reflecting a divine order mirrored in creation.

Irenaeus explains that the seven heavens encompass the world, serving as dwelling places for powers, angels, and archangels who perform service to God. The Spirit of God, manifold in its indwelling, is symbolically represented in seven forms of service as described by Isaiah, resting upon the Son of God, or the Word, in his incarnation as a human.

Each heaven, according to Irenaeus, corresponds to a specific virtue: wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, godliness, and the fear of Yahweh. The first heaven, being the highest, represents wisdom, while subsequent heavens symbolize understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, godliness, and the fear of Yahweh respectively.

The imagery of the seven-branched lampstand, as described in Exodus 25:40, serves as a pattern for understanding the relationship between the heavens and the virtues. Moses, in obedience to the divine command, fashioned the lampstand according to the pattern revealed to him on the mountain, signifying the heavenly order.

This connection between the seven-branched lampstand and the heavens underscores the divine blueprint for creation, with the lampstand serving as a symbolic representation of the heavenly realms. The continual shining of the lampstand in the holy place mirrors the perpetual presence of the virtues within the celestial spheres.

In essence, Irenaeus's exploration of Isaiah 11:2–3 and the symbolism of the seven virtues reveals a profound understanding of divine order and spiritual truth. Through the alignment of scripture, nature, and symbolism, Irenaeus illuminates the interconnectedness of the natural and spiritual realms, offering insight into the divine plan for creation.

We will begin this study with a reading from The Gospel of the Egyptians

And thus the perfect hebdomad, which exists in hidden mysteries, became complete. When she receives the glory, she becomes eleven ogdoads. (The Gospel of the Egyptians)

From Late Latin hebdomada (“number seven; group of seven; seven days”), hebdomas (“number seven; a period of seven days a WEEK; seventh day or Sabbath), from Ancient Greek ἑβδομάς (hebdomás, “group of seven, especially seven days or seven years”), from ἑπτά (heptá, “seven”) + -ᾰ́ς (-ás, suffix forming abstract nouns of number from numerals). The word is cognate with French hebdomadaire, hebdo (“weekly periodical”), hebdomadairement (“weekly”), Portuguese hebdomadário (“weekly periodical”), Spanish hebdomadario (“weekly; weekly periodical; hebdomadary”).

In Orthodox Church

The word hebdomadary in the Roman Catholic Church is a member of a church or monastery appointed for one week to sing the chapter Mass and lead in the recitation of the breviary.

a member of a Roman Catholic chapter or convent appointed for the week to sing the chapter mass and lead the recitation of the canonical hours

Biblical Use

From Ancient Greek ἑβδομάς (hebdomás). Compare Latin hebdomas.

εβδομάδες G1439.1 - Apostolic Bible Polyglot Concordance, Strongs-AB Number G1439.1

Exodus 34:22 εβδομάδων - of a period of sevens 

Leviticus 23:15 εβδομάδας - [2periods of seven 

Leviticus 23:16 εβδομάδος - period of seven 

Leviticus 25:8 εβδομάδες - periods of seven 

Numbers 28:26 εβδομάδων - 4period of sevens], 

Deuteronomy 16:9 εβδομάδας - [2periods of seven 

Deuteronomy 16:9 εβδομάδας - periods of seven. 

Deuteronomy 16:10 εβδομάδων - of the period of sevens 

Deuteronomy 16:16 εβδομάδων - period of sevens, 

2 Chronicles 8:13 εβδομάδων - period of sevens, 

Daniel 9:24 εβδομάδες - periods of seven 

Daniel 9:25 εβδομάδες - [2periods of seven 

Daniel 9:25 εβδομάδες - [2periods of seven 

Daniel 9:26 εβδομάδας - [2periods of seven 

Daniel 9:27 εβδομάς - [2period of sevens 

Daniel 9:27 εβδομάδος - period of seven 

Daniel 10:2 εβδομάδας - periods of seven 

Daniel 10:3 εβδομάδων - period of sevens

Leviticus 25:8 “‘And you must count for yourself seven sabbaths of years, seven times seven years, and the days of the seven sabbaths of years* must amount to forty-nine years for you.

Leviticus 25:8 Καὶ ἐξαριθμήσεις σεαυτῷ ἑπτὰ ἀναπαύσεις αὐτῶν, ἑπτὰ ἔτη ἑπτάκις, καὶ ἔσονταί σοι ἑπτά ἑβδομάδες ἐτῶν ἐννέα καὶ τεσσαράκοντα ἔτη. 

“Sabbaths of.” Heb., shabbethoth´; Lat., ebdomades, “weeks.”

“Sabbaths of years.” Greek, hebdomadeseton´, “weeks of years.” Compare Da 9:24 ftn, “Weeks.”

Seven

Seven comes from the Hebrew "SAVAH" meaning to cease (47x), rest (11x), away (3x), fail (2x), celebrate (1x), miscellaneous (7x).

The Hebrew expression yohm hash·shab·bath´ is drawn from the verb shavath´, meaning “rest, cease.” (Ge 2:2; 8:22)

God set the pattern for the whole Sabbath arrangement, from the seven-day week to the Jubilee year that followed the seven-times-seven–year cycle. (Ex 20:10; Le 25:2, 6, 8)

The sabbath is on the seventh day it is a day of rest therefore seven symbolizes rest

The Hebrew word for “week” (shavua`) literally refers to a sevenfold unit or period. The Greek word sabbaton, in turn, is derived from the Hebrew word for Sabbath (shabbath´).

Luke 18:12  I fast twice in the week <4521>, I give tithes of all that I possess.

4521. σάββατον sabbaton sabbaton; of Hebrew origin [07676]; the Sabbath (i.e. Shabbath), or day of weekly repose from secular avocations (also the observance or institution itself); by extension, a se’nnight, i.e. the interval between two Sabbaths; likewise the plural in all the above applications: —  sabbath (day), week. 

AV-sabbath day 37, sabbath 22, week 9; 68

The word translated week here in Luke 18:12 refers to other days in the week as well the Sabbath day (its like saying seven days, a week).   

The Jewish Sabbath is from from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday. Saturday is named after the planet Saturn.

The Romans named Saturday Sāturni diēs ("Saturn's Day") no later than the 2nd century for the planet Saturn, which controlled the first hour of that day, according to Vettius Valens

Seven is so universally used as a mystical number that its basis must be in some fundamental arrangement of the natural world.

Seven indicates the number of days in a week, the number of planetary spheres (sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn) in ancient astronomy, and so the number of kings stationed over the spheres of heaven in the Secret Book of John. The seventh or hebdomad refers to the realm of the planetary spheres, over which the Demiurge is stationed.

Because there were seven planets in the sky (the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn),[1] it was commonly agreed that there were seven of these beings ruling as a hebdomad who were called “archontes” (principalities or rulers).[2]

[1.] This dependence upon the number seven is quite common in pre-Christian religion. The Jews, for example, believed that these seven planets were ruled by seven archangels: Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Selaphiel, Jegudiel, and Barachiel. (Each of which corresponded to the seven days of the week, respectively.)

[2.] In modern Greek, the seven-day week is called an hebdomada.

Hebdomas; The kingdom of the "Seven", referring to the seven Archangels. The seven archangels are name in the First Book of Enoch

Seven Hevens and Seven Archangels

hebdomad: (Greek, “group of seven”) The seventh planetary sphere or seventh heaven, lair of the archons. The chief archon or Demiurge is sometimes considered to reside in the hebdomad and sometimes in the Ogdoad. Hebdomad can also refer to a grouping of seven beings (for instance, archons) in Gnostic texts.

(Proverbs 9:1): Wisdom has built her house, She has carved out her seven pillars;

The seven pillars which wisdom built a house are understood by valentinians to refer to the planetary heavens, the habitation of the Sophia herself was placed above the Hebdomad in the Ogdoad (Extracts from the Works of Theodotus. 8, 47):

47 Now the Saviour became the first universal creator. “But Wisdom,” the second, “built a house for herself and hewed out seven pillars” and first of all she put forth a god, the image of the Father, and through him she made heaven and earth, that is “heavenly things, and the earthly” – the things on the right hand and on the left. (Extracts from the Works of Theodotus)

The Hebdomad is used of the seven seven archangels and the seven heavens

The idea of seven archangels is most explicitly stated in the old testament Apocrypha, Book of Tobit when Raphael reveals himself, declaring: "I am Raphael, one of the seven angels who stand in the glorious presence of the Lord, ready to serve him." (Tobit 12:15) The other two archangels mentioned by name in the Bible are Michael and Gabriel.

The Book of Enoch (also known as 1 Enoch)

8:4 And as men perished, they cried, and their cry went up to heaven to the holy angels who watch.

20:1 And these are the names of the holy angels who watch.
20:2 Uriel, one of the holy angels, who presides over clamour and terror.
20:3 Raphael, one of the holy angels, who is over the spirits of men.
20:4 Raguel, one of the holy angels who takes vengeance on the world of the luminaries.
20:5 Michael, one of the holy angels, who, is set over the best part of mankind and over chaos.
20:6 Saraqael, one of the holy angels, who is set over the spirits, who sin in the spirit.
20:7 Gabriel, one of the holy angels, who is over the Garden of Eden and the serpents and the Cherubs.
20:8 Ramael, one of the holy angels, whom God set over those who rise.

The seven pillars are normally interpreted as seven virtues. The seven virtues are understood to be the seven spirits of Isaiah 11:2–3 wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, godliness, and the fear of Yahweh, here are represented the seven Spirits, which are before the throne of God. The reference to the lamb in Revelation 5:6 relates it to the Seven Spirits which first appear in Revelation 1:4 and are associated with Jesus who holds them along with seven stars

The seven Spirits of God  are mentioned four times in the Book of Revelation, and in the Book of Isaiah it names each Spirit.

Isaiah 11:2 2  and the Spirit of God shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge and godliness shall fill him;

3  the spirit of the fear of God. He shall not judge according to appearance, nor reprove according to report:

Revelation 4:5: And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.

In discussing Isaiah 11.2–3 (“And the Spirit of God will rest upon him, a Spirit of wisdom and understanding …”), Irenaeus, like the Valentinians, uses number symbolism to connect the Scripture and the natural world. According to this verse there are seven virtues that come upon the Messiah: wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, godliness, and the fear of Yahweh. 

Irenaeus explains that the virtues refer to the seven heavens, the model Moses used for the seven-branched lampstand, in obedience to the command to fashion things as a type of what was revealed to him on the mountain (Exodus 25.40).

Irenaeus The Proof of Apostolic Preaching

9. Now this world is encompassed by seven heavens, [87] in which dwell powers and angels and and angels and archangels, doing service to God, the Almighty and Maker of all things: not as though He was in need, but that they may not be idle and unprofitable and ineffectual. 

88] Wherefore also the Spirit of God is manifold in its indwelling, [89] and in seven forms of service [90] is He reckoned by the prophet Isaiah, as resting on the Son of God, that is the Word, in His coming as man. 

The Spirit of God, he says, shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, (the Spirit of knowledge) [91] and of godliness; the Spirit of the fear of God shall fill him.

 Now the heaven which is first from above, [92] and encompasses the rest, is (that of) wisdom; and the second from it, of understanding; and the third, of counsel; and the fourth, reckoned from above, (is that) of might; and the fifth, of knowledge; and the sixth, of godliness; and the seventh, this firmament of ours, is full of the fear of that Spirit which gives light to the heavens. For, as the pattern (of this), Moses received the seven-branched lampstand, [93] that shined continually in the holy place; for as a pattern of the heavens he received this service, according to that which the Word spake unto him: Thou shalt make (it) according to all the pattern of the things which thou hast seen in the mount. (The Proof of Apostolic Preaching, 9)

The number seven as it pertains to heavens was mentioned by Clement of Alexandria and Origen, who probably were relayed the idea from first century Jewish mysticism (Bereshith Rabba, 19, fol. 19, col. 3 contains a later Jewish presentation of the idea, but being that the seventh heaven contains the Shekinah [Sophia] glory of God, the Jewish mysticism was ironically Gnostic in nature–the Quran also contains a similar reference in Surah 67).

The word Hebdomad occurs also in the Clementine Homilies. The mystery of the Hebdomad there unfolded (Hom. xvii. 10) is an independent exposition of the six days' work of creation, and the seventh day's rest; illustrated by the six directions, into which infinite space extends, viz. up, down, right, left, backward, forward, together with the central point considered as making a seventh.

Pseudo-Clementine Literature/The Clementine Homilies/Homily XVII/Chapter 10

Chapter X.—The Nature and Shape of God.

“This is the mystery of the hebdomad. For He Himself is the rest of the whole who grants Himself as a rest ( “Rest,” of course, points to the number seven the Sabbath Day.) to those who imitate His greatness within their little measure. For He is alone, sometimes comprehensible, sometimes incomprehensible, sometimes limitable, sometimes illimitable, having extensions which proceed from Him into infinity. For thus He is comprehensible and incomprehensible, near and far, being here and there, as being the only existent one, and as giving a share of that mind (the ogdoad) which is infinite on every hand, in consequence of which souls breathe and possess life; and if they be separated from the body and be found with a longing for Him, they are borne along into His bosom, as in the winter time the mists of the mountains, attracted by the rays of the sun, are borne along immortal to it. What affection ought therefore to arise within us if we gaze with our mind on His beautiful shape! But otherwise it is absurd to speak of beauty. For beauty cannot exist apart from shape; nor can one be attracted to the love of God, nor even deem that he can see Him, if God has no form. (Clementine Homilies Chapter 10)

- The Untitled Text in the Bruce Codex also describes the Pleroma as ‘the body’ of the monad, which is like the mother-city “This is the manner in which they are all within the monad : there are twelve monads making a crown upon its head ; each one makes twelve. And there are ten decads surrounding its shoulders. And there are nine enneads surrounding its belly. And there are seven hebdomads at its feet, and each one makes a hebdomad. And to the veil which surrounds it like a tower, there are twelve gates. There are twelve myriad powers at each gate, and they are called archangels and also angels. This is the mother-city of the only-begotten one.” (Untitled Text in the Bruce Codex)


The hebdomad symbolizes rest, but it is surpassed by the ogdoad, wherein is the promise of gnostic perfection.

Clement of Alexandria says that those who reach the highest levels of perfection have not remained in the hebdomad of rest, but have advanced into the inheritance of the benefit of the ogdoad (ὀγδοαδικῆς εὐεργεσιάς).

The material world is a shadowy, flawed version of the Pleroma, the two worlds sometimes being referred to as the Hebdomad (from hebdomas, meaning ‘seven’, a reference to the seven spheres of the material and Ogdoad (from ogdoas, meaning ‘eight’, referring to the eighth heaven), respectively.

Summary

In modern Greek, the seven-day week is called an hebdomada

The Hebdomad is used of the seven archangels and the seven heavens

The Hebdomad refers to seven spirits of virtues  

The Hebdomad refers the seven spirits of God 

The Hebdomad symbolizes rest

The Hebdomad is a copy of the Pleroma