Edge of the Abyss

Academic discourse does not often reference the idea of antichrist, perhaps because it is seen as archaic or as too closely associated with religious fundamentalism. Robert Isaac Skidmore, a depth psychotherapist and an Orthodox priest, argues that antichrist, alongside its theological meaning, designates an aspect of our psychological, social, and political experience that becomes hazardous, especially when ignored or dismissed. Seeing Donald Trump’s cultural and political influence as expressive of an archetypal pattern, Skidmore explores implications of taking the idea of antichrist seriously—in order to lift it toward conscious awareness and responsible use. Christian individuals are asked to reconsider the theological function of the notion of antichrist as a summons to self-scrutiny concerning their fidelity to truth. Readers, religious or not, are invited to awareness of antichrist’s archetypal contours, in order to appreciate its significance for the understanding of psychological and social phenomena and to better understand the implications of its use—including its potential benefits and hazards.Table of ContentsForeword by Steven-John Harris, Ph.D. Introduction I. Antichrist in Its Theological Setting Scriptural Context Antichrist as Idol Antichrist as Marker Between Truth and Error II. Antichrist in Public View Sociopathy: The Psychological Correlate to Antichrist Charismatic Totalitarianism: The Political Correlate to Antichrist III. Antichrist in Context of Psyche and Sacred Antichrist as Archetypal Shadow Antichrist as Expression of Evil                                                                                          Differences Between Religious and Psychological Understandings of Antichrist       IV. Antichrist’s Social Dynamics Antichrist as Expressive of Group Dynamics Antichrist as a Label Versus Antichrist as an Operative Principle Antichrist as a LabelAntichrist as an Operative PrincipleV. Assessment of a Dangerous Idea Usefulness of the Antichrist ConceptCaution in Use of Antichrist TerminologyConclusion References