“Let twelve angels come into being to rule over chaos and the underworld." And look, from the cloud there appeared an angel whose face flashed with fire and whose appearance was defiled with blood. His name was Nebro, which means in translation 'rebel'; others call him Yaldabaoth.”
Explore This Quote Further
Angelic Rule over Chaos and the Underworld
“Let twelve angels come into being to rule over chaos and the underworld." And look, from the cloud there appeared an angel whose face flashed with fire and whose appearance was defiled with blood. His name was Nebro, which means in translation 'rebel'; others call him Yaldabaoth.” - Rodolphe Kasser
Quote Analysis
In this quote from Rodolphe Kasser, the concept of angels ruling over chaos and the underworld is introduced. The mention of twelve angels coming into being to govern such realms suggests a sense of divine order and control over darkness and turmoil. The introduction of Nebro, also known as Yaldabaoth, as an angel with a rebellious nature adds a layer of complexity to the traditional image of angels as obedient and virtuous beings. This quote challenges the traditional understanding of angelic beings and introduces a more nuanced interpretation of their roles and characteristics.
Modern Relevance: The Rebel Angel
In the ancient text quoted above, the figure of Nebro, also known as Yaldabaoth, is described as a rebel angel ruling over chaos and the underworld. This concept of a rebellious entity influencing the natural order can be seen as a metaphor for various societal and individual struggles in the modern world. From political uprisings to personal revolutions against oppressive systems, the idea of a rebel angel continues to resonate with contemporary issues of power, authority, and rebellion.
Reflection Questions:
As you reflect on the idea of twelve angels ruling over chaos and the underworld, consider the following questions: - What do you think about the concept of angels having power over chaos and the underworld? - How does the description of Nebro as a rebel and defiled with blood make you feel? - Do you see any connections between this concept and other beliefs or mythologies you are familiar with?
These questions may provoke deeper consideration and exploration of the themes presented in the quote provided.
Similar quotes
“For there exists a great and boundless aeon, whose extent no generation of angels could see, in which is the great invisible Spirit, which no eye of an angel has ever seen, no thought of the heart has ever comprehended, and it was never called by any name.”
“But God caused knowledge to be given to Adam and those with him, so that the kings of chaos and the underworld might not lord it over them." [--Jesus]”
“Look, you have been told everything. Lift up your eyes and look at the cloud and the light within it and the stars surrounding it. And the star that leads the way is your star." So Judas lifted up his eyes and saw the luminous cloud, and he entered it.”
“...Then they will fornicate in my name and slay their children [...] in my name, and your star will rule over the thirteenth aeon." And after that Jesus laughed. Judas said, "Master, why are you laughing at us?" Jesus answered and said, "I am not laughing at you but at the error of the stars, because these six stars wander about with these five combatants, and they all will be destroyed along with their creatures.”
“Judas said, "Master, as you have listened to all of them, now also listen to me. For I have seen a great vision." And when Jesus heard this, he laughed and said to him, "You thirteenth daimon, why do you try so hard? But speak up, and I shall bear with you.”
“Master, take me in along with these people." Jesus answered and said, "Your star has led you astray, Judas.”