Hierouden

Hierouden, also known as Hierodules, were a group of ancient Greek philosophers who lived in the 4th century BCE. They were named after their founder, Hierodulus, who was a student of Socrates. The Hieroudens were known for their ascetic lifestyle and their belief in the importance of self-discipline and self-denial. They practiced extreme forms of asceticism, including fasting, celibacy, and the use of harsh physical disciplines. Their philosophy was heavily influenced by the teachings of Socrates and the Pythagoreans, and they believed in the idea of the transmigration of souls. The Hieroudens were also known for their belief in the importance of music and poetry in the pursuit of wisdom. Despite their extreme practices, the Hieroudens were not a sect or a formal religious group, but rather a loose association of philosophers who shared similar beliefs and practices. Their ideas and practices have had a significant influence on later philosophical and religious traditions.