The Symbolism of Jonah and the Whale

In this video, we delve into the rich symbolism of the biblical story of Jonah and the Whale, uncovering a profound and troubling psychological and spiritual truth.

Jonah's journey is more than a tale of disobedience and redemption; it is a cautionary narrative about the dire consequences of ignoring the unconscious mind and the deeper aspects of our psyche. Drawing on Jungian psychology, we explore how Jonah's flight from God's command symbolizes a rejection of the Self, and a refusal to confront the Shadow—the darker, repressed parts of our psyche.

The story also reflects the broader, collective shift from the instinct-driven, hedonistic pagan era to the introspective, morally conscious Christian aeon.

As Jonah wrestles with his internal and external struggles, we are reminded of the importance of integrating the unconscious into our conscious lives, lest we face a storm of our own making.

#psychology #religion #history

SOCIALS
Instagram: @archetypalwisdom
TikTok: @archetypalwisdom

CREDITS
Script: Archetypal Wisdom
Voiceover: Archetypal Wisdom
Editing: Pictory
Images: Freepik

Timecodes
0:00 Intro
0:25 The story of Jonah
3:38 The symbolism of the unconscious
4:20 The alchemical fish and the Self archetype
5:48 Shadow projection
6:20 Individuation and the Self
7:06 Psychedelic psychotherapy and archetypes
8:07 The historic symbolism of the fish and the Christian aeon
9:17 The transition of the Pagan era to the Christian era
11:25 Fasting and right hemisphere of the brain
12:17 Theological language and psychology

[thereishappiness]

Super interesting. I hadn't heard the story of Jonah and the Whale since I was a kid, so I loved hearing this explanation. Thanks for breaking this down in such a helpful way. You have very unique takes.

Wow. That’s so thought provoking. Love it🙌👍

[yvonnejackson]

I notice that God does not mitigate the consequences of Jonah’s failure to confront the Shadow. However, when Jonah realizes this he knows that the problem is within himself. When he understands this, God relents and ends his suffering.
One of the great revelations of my life was the realization that what angered me in others is a reflection of what is hidden inside.. This is how one can be able to truly forgive others. This is how one can avoid self pity when it is you who suffers the consequences.
To be thankful for the opportunity to see what is inside that needs work is true grace.

[FranFran]

This is really interesting. Have you ever considered writing a book? I could see you using stories and messages from various religions and unpacking them through the lens of psychology (like these videos) but perhaps with a focus on self-help/personal reflection. Perhaps each chapter could be a different emotion or human issue that we commonly struggle with.

[beaufowler]

Thought provoking and handled with depth and a clear sensitivity to the text and it’s meaning. I think you’d be well received lecturing. Look forward to your next one man

[Kifilms]

Incredible depth! This video deserves far more views!