The Darkening Landscape of America
There’s a growing sense that America is becoming increasingly dark. This sentiment isn’t just limited to Christians; even those who typically lean away from religious views are beginning to notice. A strange shadow seems to be spreading, stirring chaos, confusion, and unrestrained evil.
While some attempt to combat widespread corruption through new laws or innovative ideas, Rick Burgess, the host of the “Strange Encounters” podcast, believes these efforts merely address surface-level issues, rather than the underlying problems.
According to Burgess, deep-rooted decadence in American culture and institutions is at the heart of many issues we face today. Unless we confront these issues head-on, he argues, the nation will continue to spiral into despair.
In a recent episode of “Strange Encounters,” Burgess discusses America’s spiritual crisis with author Tom DiMarco, who has a new book that delves into today’s chaos and proposes a singular solution: “The Only Solution: A brief look at the driving forces behind today’s chaos and the only person who can save us.”
Burgess frequently prompts his audience to engage in what he refers to as “spiritual housecleaning.” This involves examining what we permit into our homes. Certain items—like decorations associated with Halloween, objects tied to the occult, or even various forms of media—can serve as invitations for negative forces.
However, it’s not only individuals who need this introspection; the entire nation is in dire need of spiritual cleansing.
One institution requiring examination is Freemasonry, which DiMarco highlights as the world’s oldest fraternity. Despite its portrayal as a charitable brotherhood focused on self-improvement, DiMarco suggests that there’s more beneath the surface.
He notes that while there are lower levels within Freemasonry that resemble casual men’s clubs—where good deeds occur—ascending to higher levels involves secrecy and potentially problematic beliefs, including ancient god-worship.
DiMarco also addresses the symbolism embedded in some of America’s most iconic structures, such as the Washington Monument and the Capitol Building. He describes the Washington Monument as an “obelisk,” a tall, tapering structure connected to ancient fertility worship, particularly the worship of Baal, which has ties to child sacrifice in biblical texts.
He further claims that the U.S. Capitol dome symbolizes ancient pagan fertility and highlights the fresco “The Apotheosis of Washington,” which supposedly depicts deities associated with war, including figures like Astarte and Isis, hinting at Masonic influences in its design.
Additionally, DiMarco alleges that Daniel Carroll, a wealthy figure with Masonic links appointed by George Washington to manage the establishment of federal territory, arranged the monuments in D.C. to form a pentagram when viewed from above.
He asserts that the monument is emblematic of Masonic symbols like the compass and square. DiMarco adds that even the Statue of Liberty is modeled after a pagan goddess once called Columbia.
“The second commandment specifically advises against such constructions,” DiMarco states. “I think they might function as portals that allow a sort of dark influence.” He stresses that these sites seem designed to gain power.
Burgess and DiMarco reflect on how ancient Israel viewed idolatry and pagan practices as severe violations of their covenant with God. The Bible illustrates that such practices drew divine judgment, while repentance and the destruction of idols were often necessary for restoration and blessings from God.
They argue that for America to achieve a “reign of peace,” reminiscent of the “good king” of Judah, it’s imperative to eliminate our idols and pagan influences.
“As long as these elements persist, conflict will follow,” DiMarco concludes.
If you’re curious about the concept of portal theory, the entire interview provides deeper insights.





