Edward Bruce Bynum’s seminal work, Our African Unconscious: The Black Origins of Mysticism and Psychology, presents a compelling synthesis of African influence on the collective unconscious and human civilization. Bynum, a clinical psychologist with a deep understanding of spiritual traditions and depth psychology, intricately weaves together archaeology, DNA research, history, and psychological theory to unveil the foundational role of Africa in the development of human consciousness and civilization.
The Genesis of Human Civilization
Bynum’s thesis begins with the assertion that Africa is not only the birthplace of humanity but also the cradle of human civilization. He draws on archaeological and genetic evidence to support this claim, emphasizing that early human migrations out of Africa laid the groundwork for diverse cultures and societies around the globe. The fossil record and DNA research conclusively show that humanity's biological roots are deeply African, which sets the stage for exploring the psychological and spiritual dimensions of this heritage.
The Collective Unconscious and African Mysticism
Central to Bynum’s argument is the concept of the collective unconscious, a term coined by Carl Jung to describe the part of the unconscious mind that is shared among beings of the same species. Bynum correlates this with the spiritual traditions and mysticism that originated in Africa. He posits that the archetypes and symbols that populate the collective unconscious are deeply influenced by African spirituality and cosmology. For example, the reverence for ancestors, the interconnectedness of all life, and the cyclical nature of existence are prominent themes in African spirituality that resonate within the collective unconscious of all humanity.
Egyptian Mysticism and Its Global Influence
A significant portion of Bynum’s exploration focuses on the civilization of ancient Egypt, or Kemet, which he identifies as a direct descendant of earlier African cultures, particularly those in Nubia. He discusses how the Egyptian mystery schools and their teachings influenced subsequent civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans. Bynum argues that many aspects of Western philosophy, science, and spirituality have roots in Egyptian thought, which in turn is rooted in broader African traditions.
Bynum details the process through which ancient Egyptian knowledge was transmitted to Europe, often filtered through the lens of Greek and Roman interpretations. This transmission included not only philosophical and scientific knowledge but also mystical and esoteric practices. The widespread presence of the “Black Madonna” cults in Europe, for example, reflects a deep-seated, albeit often unacknowledged, recognition of African spiritual influence.
Repression and Rediscovery of African Roots
Bynum addresses the historical and ongoing repression of Africa’s role in human history and civilization. During the colonial and post-colonial eras, European scholars and scientists often sought to separate Egypt from the rest of Africa, portraying it as a unique civilization with little connection to its African neighbors. This narrative served to uphold Eurocentric views of history and justified the subjugation of African peoples.
However, Bynum highlights the resurgence of interest in Africa’s contributions to global civilization in recent decades. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and integrating these contributions into our understanding of human history and identity. By acknowledging the African roots of civilization, we can foster a more inclusive and accurate understanding of our shared heritage.
The African Unconscious in Modern Context
Bynum’s work also examines how the African unconscious manifests in contemporary society, particularly in the Americas. He explores the spiritual practices and cultural expressions of the African diaspora, noting how these reflect a deep, often unconscious connection to African traditions. For example, the spiritual practices of African American communities, Caribbean religions such as Vodou and Santería, and even aspects of contemporary Black spirituality all bear the imprint of African mysticism.
Moreover, Bynum argues that recognizing the African unconscious can have profound implications for modern psychology and psychotherapy. By incorporating an understanding of these deep-rooted influences, therapists can better address the psychological needs of individuals of African descent and promote healing that acknowledges their cultural and spiritual heritage.
Conclusion: Embracing Our Shared Heritage
In Our African Unconscious, Edward Bruce Bynum provides a thorough and thought-provoking examination of the African roots of human civilization and the collective unconscious. His interdisciplinary approach, drawing on fields as diverse as archaeology, genetics, history, and depth psychology, offers a comprehensive understanding of the profound impact of Africa on the development of human consciousness and spirituality.
By uncovering and embracing the African origins of mysticism and psychology, Bynum challenges us to rethink our understanding of history and identity. Recognizing the interconnectedness of all human beings and the shared heritage that binds us can foster greater empathy, understanding, and unity in an increasingly divided world.
For further reading, you can explore Bynum's detailed arguments and extensive research in his book Our African Unconscious: The Black Origins of Mysticism and Psychology, published by Inner Traditions in 2021 (Simon & Schuster Books) (PhilPapers).