Episode Summary: The Sign of the Cross | The Two Babylons by Alexander Hislop

The cross is one of the most recognized symbols in the world—but has it always meant what people assume it means?

In this episode, we continue our journey through The Two Babylons as we explore "The Sign of the Cross." Hislop challenges the common assumption that the ritual use of the cross originated with the early Christian church. Instead, he argues that the symbol was already deeply rooted in the religious traditions of the ancient world long before the time of Christ.

We'll examine Hislop's discussion of Paul's statement about "glorying in the cross of Christ," why he believed it referred to Christ's sacrifice rather than a physical emblem, and then follow his historical case as he traces the cross through the mysteries of Babylon, the worship of Tammuz, and other ancient civilizations.

Was the sign of the cross handed down by the apostles, or did it find its way into Christianity centuries later? What evidence does Hislop present, and how well does it stand up to scrutiny?

Whether you've read The Two Babylons before or are encountering these arguments for the first time, this episode invites you to open the Scriptures, examine the historical record, and think carefully about the origins of one of history's most enduring religious symbols.

Episode 5: Lamps and Wax Candles

In this episode, we continue our journey through Alexander Hislop's 'The Two Babylons' by examining Section 5: Lamps and Wax Candles.

Why have candles become such a prominent feature in religious ceremonies? Are these practices rooted in apostolic Christianity, or do they trace their origins to far older systems of worship?

Drawing from Hislop's research, we explore the historical use of sacred lights in ancient Babylon, Egypt, Greece, and Rome, and investigate how these customs found their way into later ecclesiastical traditions. We examine the symbolism attached to lamps, candles, and perpetual flames, as well as the connection Hislop draws between pagan ritualism and later religious ceremonies.

Whether you agree with Hislop's conclusions or approach them with caution, this chapter raises fascinating questions about the origins of religious traditions and the distinction between biblical worship and inherited customs. Join us as we sift through history, symbolism, and Scripture to better understand the significance of lamps and wax candles in the development of religious practice.

Topics covered:

• Sacred lights in ancient pagan worship

• The symbolism of perpetual flames

• Candles in religious ceremonies

• Historical parallels between Babylonian and later traditions

• Biblical perspectives on worship and symbolism

If you enjoy these studies through 'The Two Babylons', be sure to subscribe and follow along as we continue examining the historical claims and prophetic implications presented in this influential work.

What is the true origin of the rosary?

In this episode, we examine Section 4 of Alexander Hislop's 'The Two Babylons', where he follows the trail of prayer beads through ancient civilizations, distant religions, and centuries of ritual practice. From the mountains of Tibet to the churches of Rome, Hislop uncovers striking parallels that challenge conventional assumptions and raise questions about the historical roots of one of Christianity's most familiar traditions.