Mormonism as a Wisdom Tradition, with Maxine Hanks

Was Joseph Smith restoring more than early Christianity? In this episode, Maxine Hanks explores Mormonism as a wisdom tradition—one rooted in revelation, spiritual vision, Sophia wisdom, apocryphal texts, and direct connection with the divine.

Together, Meghan and Maxine discuss Gnostic Christianity, the role of women in early Christianity and early Mormonism, Joseph Smith’s engagement with wisdom literature, the First Vision as a wisdom-seeking event, and why many of the truths people search for outside Mormonism may already exist within the Restoration.

If you're interested in Mormon mysticism, esoteric Christianity, Sophia, Mary Magdalene, continuing revelation, and the deeper dimensions of the Restoration, this conversation offers a compelling framework for reexamining LDS origins. 

Timestamps

00:00 Intro & Pentecost Themes
 02:40 Why Maxine Calls Mormonism a Wisdom Tradition
 08:30 Early Christianity & LDS Restoration Parallels
 18:00 Women, Priesthood & the Elect Lady
 27:00 What Is a Wisdom Tradition?
 37:00 Vision Traditions, Mysticism & Revelation
 48:00 Esoteric vs. Exoteric Religion
 58:00 Apocrypha, Wisdom Literature & Sacred Texts
 1:08:00 Joseph Smith, Wisdom of Solomon & the First Vision
 1:16:00 Nested Levels of Spiritual Truth
 1:20:00 Gnostic Themes in Mormon Theology
 1:28:00 Hugh Nibley & Rediscovering Ancient Wisdom

Maxine Hanks is a Mormon theologian, historian, author, and researcher known for her work on women in Mormonism, early Christianity, mysticism, Gnostic traditions, and Mormon theology. Her scholarship frequently explores the intersections of restoration theology, spiritual experience, the divine feminine, and religious history.

Links Mentioned

•  Hidden Wisdom App 
•  Wayfair Festival (Faith Matters) - July 11th, Heber UT
•  The Way of Healing: Restoring Wholeness to the Soul

Continue Your Journey

If this episode resonated with you, there are several ways to go deeper:

🌿 Join the Hidden Wisdom App – Access guided pathways, courses, monthly live Q&As, guided meditations, community discussions, and embodiment practices designed to support your spiritual awakening and transformation.

🌸 Return to the Garden – A 12-week women's mentorship experience exploring healing, embodiment, feminine wisdom, and sacred transformation.

🎙️ Work with Meghan – Explore mentorship, retreats, speaking events, and additional resources to support your journey.

Learn more and explore everything at:
https://meghanfarner.com

Connect with us:
• Instagram: @hiddenwisdompod
• YouTube: @hiddenwisdomldd