Neoplatonism

Neoplatonism is a philosophical and religious movement that arose in the 3rd century CE, drawing on Plato and other ancient sources. Its central claim is that a single supreme principle, the One, lies beyond all being and knowledge. From the One emanate the Nous, the realm of perfect intellect, and the World-Soul, which animates the cosmos. The material universe is a lower emanation within this hierarchy. For humans, the goal is to turn from the surface of the sensible world and strive for union with the One through contemplation, purification, and virtuous living, a process described as ascent rather than creation.

Plotinus’ ideas were systematized in the Enneads, compiled by his student Porphyry. Later teachers such as Iamblichus added theurgical practices, arguing that ritual actions could aid the soul’s ascent and its union with the divine. Proclus expanded the system with a detailed cosmology and a hierarchical ladder of realities. Through translations and commentaries, these ideas significantly influenced late antique philosophy and the medieval reception of classical thought.

Neoplatonism profoundly affected late antique and medieval thought. In Christian philosophy, it helped shape Augustine’s early metaphysics and mystical theology, and it influenced Pseudo-Dionysius and other mystics. In the Islamic world, Neoplatonism circulated through translations and informed philosophers such as al-Farabi and Avicenna. Jewish thinkers also engaged with the tradition. Its emphasis on the soul’s ascent and the unity behind multiplicity contributed to mysticism and scholasticism, and the movement experienced renewed scholarly interest during the Renaissance.

Scholars regard Neoplatonism as a foundational bridge between ancient philosophy and later religious thought, though it has faced criticism for its metaphysical commitments about emanation and the status of matter. Modern studies treat it as a key influence on metaphysics, mysticism, and the history of philosophy.