1995-09-03 – John Anthony West – Ancient Egypt

Show: Dreamland

Air Date: September 3, 1995

Guest(s): John Anthony West

Topic(s): Ancient Egypt

The show kicks off with anticipation for Linda Howe’s report from Britain on the Santilli film, purportedly showing an alien autopsy, a topic stirring intrigue and skepticism alike. Following Howe, John Anthony West, an Egyptologist, not an archaeologist, promises to delve into the mysteries of ancient Egypt, adding an air of historical mystery to the evening. Amidst technical glitches preventing the newest affiliate in Las Vegas from airing the episode, Art reassures his audience of the show’s return next week. He also reminds listeners of the deadline to subscribe to the newsletter and introduces new, enigmatic photographs on the bulletin board, including an indescribable scene, an alien autopsy, and a view of Earth, sparking curiosity and debate. The discussion shifts to the authenticity of the Santilli film, with expert analysis suggesting the film, dating from 1947, could indeed be genuine. The absence of typical old film imperfections and the chemical composition of the film stock add to the evidence supporting its authenticity. Art’s conversation with a technical consultant reaffirms the film’s time frame, while a skeptical inquiry into the possibility of a hoax adds a layer of investigative rigor.

Art’s investigation into the authenticity of the Santilli film deepens as he and his guests explore the implications of their findings. A detailed analysis of the excavation site, described by the cameraman, leads to a visit to New Mexico, where Art discovers evidence consistent with the cameraman’s description, further validating the story. The site reveals an excavated area, suggesting a significant event, possibly a crash retrieval operation. This segment of the show also introduces Bob Better, an FBI analyst and renowned photography expert, whose analysis confirms the film’s date to 1947, adding credibility to its authenticity.

The conversation shifts to Linda Howe, who emphasizes the growing evidence supporting the film’s unusual nature and the mystery surrounding the humanoid figure depicted. She speculates on the possibility of multiple crash sites and extraterrestrial bodies, hinting at a broader story yet to be unveiled. The discussion touches on the unique physical characteristics of the humanoid, such as six fingers and six toes, which deviates from other descriptions in government documentation.

As the episode progresses, Art and Linda speculate on the future of UFO and extraterrestrial research, pondering the release of more footage and the potential revelations about alien life forms and their interactions with Earth. The segment ends with a lighthearted shift to a discussion on the impact of hard water and the evolution of radio as a medium for news, comedy, talk shows, and more.

The conversation turns to the intriguing debate surrounding Barry Goldwater’s inquiry into UFOs and alleged extraterrestrial evidence held at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Art presents an exclusive interview with Goldwater, who candidly discusses his fascination with flying saucers and his unsuccessful attempt to learn about the Roswell incident from General LeMay. Goldwater’s account adds a layer of historical mystique to the ongoing UFO discourse, blending political legend with the quest for the truth about extraterrestrial encounters.

John Anthony West, an independent Egyptologist and proponent of the Symbolist school of Egyptology, then takes the stage, sharing insights from his decades of research into ancient Egypt. His groundbreaking work on the age of the Great Sphinx, which suggests it is much older than mainstream academics believe, has sparked heated debates and international interest. West’s efforts were recognized with an Emmy for his research, further highlighting the significance of his findings and challenging conventional views on ancient civilizations.

John Anthony West delves deeper into the mysteries of ancient Egypt, focusing on the symbolic and metaphysical interpretations of Egyptian monuments, particularly the Sphinx. He contrasts the traditional chronological view of Egypt’s history with his own research, which suggests that some of Egypt’s most iconic structures, including the Sphinx, may be far older than previously believed. This hypothesis is supported by geological evidence and aligns with the symbolic school of Egyptology, which interprets these ancient monuments not just as historical artifacts but as profound metaphysical teachings.

West discusses the Sphinx’s potential astrological significance, suggesting that its leonine body and human head might symbolize the age of Leo and the transition to or relationship with the age of Aquarius. This interpretation points to an advanced understanding of celestial movements and their spiritual implications, underlining the ancient Egyptians’ deep connection with the cosmos. He further explores the idea that the Sphinx, as a solar symbol with a human head, could represent the physical’s potential to achieve spiritual enlightenment.

The conversation shifts to the Egyptians’ recording methods and their focus on the “science of immortality” rather than historical chronology. This perspective is echoed in their monumental architecture, which West argues is dedicated to understanding the meaning of human existence and the journey of the soul. He speculates on the existence of a civilization preceding dynastic Egypt, one possibly less concerned with recording factual history and more with metaphysical knowledge and direct, non-verbal communication.

The discussion further explores the alignment of ancient Egyptian structures with astronomical phenomena, suggesting a sophisticated understanding of celestial movements by the ancients. Robert Vogel and others have contributed to this area, highlighting the precision with which temples and pyramids were aligned with stars, constellations, and specific celestial events, underscoring the importance of astronomy in ancient Egyptian culture.

John Anthony West emphasizes the significance of this alignment, pondering the reasons behind the ancient Egyptians’ dedication to such precision in their constructions. The conversation touches upon the Great Pyramid’s air shafts, which are meticulously aligned with specific stars, suggesting a deeper, possibly spiritual or scientific, importance to these alignments.

A fascinating turn in the discussion comes with the mention of Edgar Cayce’s prediction of a chamber beneath the Sphinx, speculated to contain the Atlantean library. West confirms the existence of an anomalous chamber in the location Cayce specified, discovered through seismic methods. This discovery fuels anticipation and debate about the chamber’s contents and its potential significance to understanding ancient civilizations and their knowledge.

Despite the enthusiasm for exploring this chamber, West notes the challenges in gaining permission for excavation, reflecting the tension between new discoveries and traditional archaeological and historical narratives. He expresses hope for future exploration, leveraging modern dating techniques and geophysical methods to uncover more about Egypt’s ancient past.

John Anthony West speculates on the contents of the hypothetical Atlantean library purported to be beneath the Sphinx. He suggests that if such a library exists and contains records, they would likely be in an unknown language or an early form of hieroglyphs, posing significant challenges for modern scholars. West expresses hope that the library might include mathematical or technological information, which could be universally understood through the language of geometry and numbers, offering insights into the past civilization’s knowledge without necessarily telling a historical narrative.

West emphasizes the significance of proving the existence of such ancient artifacts, which could challenge modern humanity’s understanding of its history and capabilities. He discusses the potential difficulties in bringing such information to light, considering the vested interests and established narratives that dominate current historical and scientific discourse. The possibility of conducting secret excavations and the challenges of keeping such discoveries from the public eye are also touched upon, highlighting the complex interplay between archaeology, politics, and public knowledge.

The conversation then shifts to recent archaeological activities, including the exploration of the tomb of Ramses II’s sons in the Valley of the Kings. Despite the historical significance of such finds, West indicates a preference for discoveries that could deepen our understanding of ancient knowledge, particularly in fields like astronomy and mathematics, over mere physical artifacts like gold and jewelry.

In this part of the show, the focus shifts toward the implications of discovering an Atlantean library beneath the Sphinx, as John Anthony West discusses the potential contents and significance of such a find. He speculates that if artifacts or texts were found, they might reveal advanced mathematical or technological knowledge, offering insights into the capabilities of ancient civilizations. West emphasizes that even proving the existence of such antiquity would challenge the current understanding of human history and the development of civilizations.

The discussion also touches on the evolution or devolution of humanity, with West suggesting that while humanity has developed incredible capabilities, it has also entered a state of chaos akin to a “juvenile delinquent.” He reflects on ancient civilizations’ serenity and accomplishment, contrasting it with modern society’s destructive tendencies.

Further, West explores the possibility of a high civilization’s existence, potentially Atlantis, that perished in a cataclysmic event around 9600 BC. He references works by Graham Hancock and others, which suggest that such a civilization could have existed and been destroyed by a global cataclysm. This theory, while still debated, points to a pattern of rise and fall among civilizations throughout history, potentially offering lessons for contemporary society regarding sustainability and the pursuit of progress.

The conversation then delves into the concept of crustal shift as a plausible explanation for the cataclysm that might have led to the downfall of advanced ancient civilizations. Despite skepticism, this theory is presented as a potential explanation for various unexplained phenomena, such as the extinction of mammoths around 11,000 BC.

John Anthony West mentions the work of the Society for Scientific Exploration, highlighting cutting-edge research that demonstrates the influence of will and thought on physical outcomes, such as the roll of dice, through rigorous scientific methods. This exploration suggests a possible reconnection with long-lost psychic abilities that ancient civilizations, like the Aboriginal Australians and African Bushmen, may have possessed and utilized in their daily lives.

West posits that modern humanity may be in the process of rediscovering these psychic talents, indicating a potential evolution of consciousness. However, he remains skeptical about the proliferation of channeling and other psychic practices in contemporary culture, preferring hard scientific evidence to anecdotal reports.

The conversation shifts to listener calls, one of which brings up Richard Hoagland’s theories about the Sedona region of Mars. West acknowledges the controversy surrounding NASA’s reluctance to further investigate these anomalies and criticizes the establishment’s resistance to new ideas that challenge the status quo. He expresses astonishment that despite governmental secrecy and manipulation, information about such subjects manages to reach the public domain, reflecting on the inherent skepticism toward official narratives.

Another caller questions West’s earlier statement about the Egyptians’ record-keeping of history, referring to hieroglyphs that allegedly depict a pharaoh ascending to the heavens in a spaceship. West clarifies that while ancient texts often speak metaphorically of the soul’s journey across the sky, interpreting these as literal accounts of space travel requires caution. He emphasizes the symbolic nature of ancient Egyptian language and spirituality, suggesting that such texts are more likely to express metaphysical concepts rather than historical accounts of extraterrestrial encounters.

John Anthony West delves into the evolving understanding of ancient Egyptian spirituality and technology, suggesting that ancient texts and monuments, like the Great Pyramid, may have layers of meaning that are only now being appreciated due to the growing evidence for extraterrestrial life and ancient advanced civilizations. He maintains a cautious stance on interpreting spiritual texts as literal historical accounts but acknowledges the increasing complexity of ancient knowledge in light of contemporary scientific discoveries.

West addresses questions from listeners, debunking myths about the modern activities near the Pyramids, such as the so-called “city of thieves” involved in grave robbing. He clarifies that these activities, while they have occurred, are not as widespread or simplistic as some believe and explains the historical context of local interactions with ancient sites.

A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to the symbolic and technological interpretations of the Pyramids. West proposes that these structures were designed as instruments for achieving higher states of consciousness rather than for predicting future events or serving solely as tombs. He is skeptical of interpretations that assign prophetic functions to the Pyramid’s dimensions, suggesting instead that their significance lies in their ability to facilitate spiritual experiences.

West shares personal experiences of conducting meditation sessions in the King’s Chamber of the Great Pyramid, noting the profound impact these sessions have on participants, including skeptics. These experiences, he argues, support the idea that the Pyramids were intended to be used for spiritual advancement and accessing higher states of consciousness.

The conversation with John Anthony West explores the possibility of ancient spiritual practices and higher states of consciousness having parallels with modern research and teachings, such as those at the Monroe Institute. This inquiry suggests a continuity and potential resurgence of ancient wisdom in contemporary settings.

West also addresses the influence of ancient civilizations on later cultures, particularly in relation to the architecture and mathematical principles observed in Mexico compared to Egypt. He suggests that while there may not be a direct connection between the Egyptian and Mayan or pre-Mayan civilizations, they could both stem from a common source, possibly relating to the Atlantean civilization hypothesized to have existed around 10,000 BC. This theory posits that shared knowledge in geometry and mathematics points to a foundational civilization influencing both cultures.

The discussion also covers Zecharia Sitchin’s work on ancient astronauts and his interpretations of Sumerian and Egyptian texts. West expresses skepticism about Sitchin’s conclusions regarding extraterrestrial influence, describing Sitchin’s approach as “galactic materialism” and critiquing the notion that ancient beings were merely more advanced and oppressive versions of humans without a higher spiritual dimension.

West then reflects on historical cycles of enslavement and freedom, suggesting that while domination by the technologically advanced over the weak is a recurring theme, it is not an absolute rule. He points to periods in ancient Egypt and other civilizations where society was not solely defined by oppression and slavery, indicating moments of true civilization and mutual respect.

A caller’s anecdote about a personal experience involving a change in eye color prompts a discussion on the physical manifestations of spiritual or intellectual states. While intriguing, West remains focused on the broader questions of human evolution, consciousness, and the potential for achieving higher states of awareness. He posits that the Great Pyramid and other ancient monuments may have been designed as tools for facilitating spiritual experiences and accessing dimensions of consciousness beyond the physical realm.

John Anthony West discusses the impact of modern technology on consciousness and the potential for ancient structures like the Great Pyramid to function as instruments for achieving higher states of consciousness. He suggests that while technology can provide unprecedented access to information, it is not inherently good or evil but a tool that can either enhance or detract from human development depending on how it’s used. West emphasizes that true wisdom and understanding come from personal effort and experience, not merely from accumulating information.

The conversation then shifts to the Great Pyramid’s original appearance, which included a smooth limestone casing and possibly a capstone made of electrum (a gold-silver alloy) or crystal. West speculates that the pyramid, particularly with its precise architectural and material choices, could have functioned as a kind of technological instrument or energy conductor, although its exact purpose remains a mystery. He describes personal experiences and observations of profound emotional and spiritual impacts on individuals who enter the pyramid, suggesting that it was designed to facilitate transformative experiences.

Listeners contribute questions about the pyramid’s potential as a transmitter or conductor of energy, with one caller mentioning theories about the pyramid being a time machine or tuned with a large crystal. West is open to the notion of the pyramid as a time machine in a metaphorical sense, indicating that it may facilitate experiences outside of ordinary time and space constraints, though he remains cautious about literal interpretations without substantial evidence.

John Anthony West discusses the potential for new discoveries in Egypt, expressing confidence that significant findings will emerge in the next few years, particularly related to his work on geological and geophysical aspects of ancient sites. He highlights the importance of hard-nosed science in challenging established historical narratives and anticipates that accessing the chamber between the paws of the Sphinx could provide undeniable evidence that reshapes historical understanding.

West also takes the opportunity to promote his books and a video that expands on the topics discussed during the show, including speculative subjects not covered in the network television version. He provides an 800 number for listeners interested in purchasing his work or learning more about his guided trips to Egypt.

The conversation then shifts to listener calls, touching on various topics such as the Great Pyramid’s original appearance, its potential as a technological instrument, and broader discussions about astrology, Sitchin’s work on ancient astronauts, and recent observations related to Comet Hale-Bopp. West remains skeptical of theories that don’t align with his understanding of ancient Egyptian philosophy and purpose, emphasizing the importance of discernment in evaluating historical and astronomical claims.

One caller brings up a rumor heard from someone working with the Hubble Telescope, suggesting that what is commonly referred to as Comet Hale-Bopp might actually be a planet. West discusses the size and orbital period of such celestial objects, indicating the need for scientific demonstration to validate such claims. He criticizes the materialistic interpretation of ancient texts by some researchers, including Sitchin, for potentially twisting data to fit predetermined conclusions.

In the concluding segment of the show, John Anthony West addresses the challenge of maintaining objectivity and integrity in his work. He acknowledges the ease with which data can be manipulated to support a particular viewpoint and emphasizes his effort to avoid such practices. West expresses his willingness to engage in discussions and debates regarding the interpretations and theories he presents, highlighting his commitment to scholarly rigor and open-minded inquiry.