mitatus

Mitatus refers to a concept found in certain philosophical and theological traditions, particularly within the Neoplatonic school of thought. It generally describes a process of ascent or transcendence, moving from a lower state of being to a higher one. This ascent is often understood as a journey of the soul or intellect towards a more perfect or divine reality.

The term derives from the Greek word "mitos," meaning thread or story, and its philosophical application suggests a unfolding or revelation of truth. In this context, mitatus is not merely a physical movement but a spiritual or intellectual progression. It involves shedding limitations and impurities to draw closer to the ultimate source of reality, often conceived as the One or the Good.

The process of mitatus is typically described as requiring purification, contemplation, and intellectual effort. It is a movement from the material to the immaterial, from the particular to the universal. This ascent is often seen as a difficult but ultimately rewarding path, leading to enlightenment and a deeper understanding of existence.

Within Neoplatonism, mitatus is a key element in achieving *henosis*, the union of the soul with the divine. It emphasizes the soul's inherent potential for divinity and the possibility of returning to its original, perfect state through a disciplined and philosophical life. The concept has influenced various mystical and spiritual traditions throughout history.