37 Facts About Discordianism

What is Discordianism?

Discordianism is a modern, satirical religion that worships Eris, the Greek goddess of chaos and discord. It was founded in the late 1950s and has since grown into a unique and quirky belief system. Here are some fascinating facts about Discordianism.

1. Origins: Discordianism was created by Greg Hill and Kerry Wendell Thornley in 1958. They wrote the "Principia Discordia," the religion's foundational text.

2. Principia Discordia: This book is a mix of satire, philosophy, and religious parody. It encourages followers to embrace chaos and find humor in life's absurdities.

3. Eris: The central deity, Eris, is the Greek goddess of chaos, strife, and discord. She is often depicted as a mischievous figure who enjoys causing trouble.

4. Sacred Chao: The Sacred Chao is a symbol representing the balance between order and chaos. It features a yin-yang-like design with a golden apple and a pentagon.

5. Golden Apple: The golden apple is a significant symbol in Discordianism. It represents Eris's apple of discord, which she used to start the Trojan War.

6. Law of Fives: Discordians believe that the number five has mystical significance. They see it as a symbol of chaos and often incorporate it into their rituals and writings.

7. Holy Days: Discordianism has several holy days, including Chaos Day, Discord Day, and St. Tib's Day. These days are celebrated with humor and absurdity.

8. Erisian Mysteries: Followers of Discordianism often engage in playful rituals and ceremonies known as the Erisian Mysteries. These rituals are meant to celebrate chaos and confusion.

9. Pope Card: Every Discordian is considered a pope. They carry a "Pope Card" that declares their papal status and grants them the authority to perform Discordian rituals.

10. Operation Mindfuck: This is a Discordian practice of spreading chaos and confusion through pranks, hoaxes, and absurdity. It aims to challenge people's perceptions of reality.

Discordian Beliefs and Practices

Discordianism is known for its unconventional beliefs and practices. Here are some more intriguing facts about this unique religion.

11. Aneristic and Eristic: Discordians believe in the concepts of Aneristic (order) and Eristic (chaos). They see both as essential aspects of the universe.

12. Greyface: Greyface is a mythical figure in Discordianism who represents the forces of order and control. Discordians seek to counteract Greyface's influence.

13. Fnord: The word "fnord" is used by Discordians to represent hidden messages and subconscious manipulation. It is often inserted into texts to create confusion.

14. Kallisti: The word "Kallisti" means "to the prettiest one" in Greek. It is inscribed on Eris's golden apple and symbolizes the subjective nature of beauty and value.

15. Discordian Calendar: Discordians use a unique calendar with five seasons: Chaos, Discord, Confusion, Bureaucracy, and The Aftermath. Each season has 73 days.

16. Pentabarf: The Pentabarf is a set of five commandments in Discordianism. It humorously outlines the religion's core principles, including the importance of chaos and humor.

17. Hail Eris!: This phrase is a common greeting among Discordians. It is used to express reverence for Eris and celebrate chaos.

18. Chao Te Ching: The Chao Te Ching is a Discordian text that parodies the Tao Te Ching. It offers humorous and chaotic wisdom.

19. Discordian Saints: Discordians have a variety of saints, including fictional characters and historical figures. These saints are celebrated for their contributions to chaos and absurdity.

20. Erisian Liberation Front: This is a fictional organization within Discordianism that promotes chaos and freedom from societal norms.

Discordianism in Popular Culture

Discordianism has influenced various aspects of popular culture, from literature to music. Here are some examples of its impact.

21. Robert Anton Wilson: Author Robert Anton Wilson was heavily influenced by Discordianism. His "Illuminatus! Trilogy" incorporates many Discordian themes and ideas.

22. RAW: Discordians often refer to Robert Anton Wilson as "RAW." His works continue to inspire followers of the religion.

23. Church of the SubGenius: This satirical religion shares many similarities with Discordianism. It was influenced by Discordian ideas and humor.

24. Music: Bands like The KLF and Negativland have incorporated Discordian themes into their music. They use chaos and absurdity to challenge conventional norms.

25. Internet Culture: Discordianism has a significant presence on the internet. Memes, forums, and social media groups dedicated to the religion thrive online.

26. Pranks and Hoaxes: Discordianism has inspired numerous pranks and hoaxes, including the infamous "Operation Mindfuck." These activities aim to disrupt societal norms and provoke thought.

27. Art and Literature: Discordian themes appear in various works of art and literature. Artists and writers use chaos and absurdity to challenge traditional narratives.

28. Conspiracy Theories: Discordianism has influenced conspiracy theories, particularly those related to the Illuminati. The religion's playful approach to chaos often blurs the line between reality and fiction.

29. Role-Playing Games: Discordianism has inspired role-playing games like "Paranoia" and "Unknown Armies." These games incorporate themes of chaos and absurdity.

30. Comedy: Comedians like George Carlin and Bill Hicks have referenced Discordian ideas in their routines. They use humor to challenge societal norms and provoke thought.

Modern Discordianism

Discordianism continues to evolve and adapt to the modern world. Here are some recent developments and trends within the religion.

31. Online Communities: Discordianism has a strong online presence, with numerous forums, social media groups, and websites dedicated to the religion.

32. Digital Rituals: Modern Discordians often perform rituals and ceremonies online. These digital gatherings allow followers to connect and celebrate chaos from anywhere in the world.

33. Collaborative Projects: Discordians frequently collaborate on creative projects, such as writing, art, and music. These projects often incorporate themes of chaos and absurdity.

34. Activism: Some Discordians engage in activism, using humor and absurdity to challenge societal norms and promote change.

35. Education: Discordianism has inspired educational initiatives that encourage critical thinking and creativity. These programs often use humor and chaos to engage students.

36. Media: Discordianism continues to influence media, from podcasts to YouTube channels. Creators use the religion's themes to entertain and provoke thought.

37. Global Reach: Discordianism has followers worldwide, with communities in various countries. The religion's message of chaos and humor resonates with people from diverse backgrounds.

Final Thoughts on Discordianism

Discordianism is a fascinating blend of chaos and humor that challenges conventional beliefs. With its roots in the 1950s, this parody religion has grown into a unique subculture. It celebrates the absurd, pokes fun at organized religion, and encourages followers to embrace chaos. From the Sacred Chao to the Law of Fives, Discordianism offers a quirky perspective on life. Whether you're intrigued by its playful nature or its deeper philosophical undertones, there's no denying its impact on modern counterculture. So next time you hear someone mention Eris, the goddess of chaos, you'll know there's a whole world of Discordian thought behind it. Dive into the Principia Discordia, and you might just find yourself laughing at the absurdity of it all. Remember, in Discordianism, chaos isn't something to fear—it's something to celebrate.