novoplatonismu

Novoplatonism is a philosophical and religious movement that flourished in the Roman Empire from the 3rd to the 6th century CE. Its central figure is Plotinus, whose teachings were compiled by his student Porphyry in the Enneads. Novoplatonism draws heavily on the philosophy of Plato, but it also incorporates elements from other philosophical traditions, including Pythagoreanism, Aristotelianism, and Stoicism, as well as mystical and religious ideas from various cultures.

At its core, Novoplatonic thought posits a hierarchical structure of reality originating from a single, transcendent source known as "The One" or "The Good." This ultimate reality is beyond description and comprehension, and all existence emanates from it in successive stages. The first emanation is Nous (Intellect), which contains the Platonic Forms. From Nous emanates Psyche (Soul), which bridges the gap between the intelligible and sensible worlds. The material world is the lowest level of emanation, seen as a reflection or shadow of higher realities.

The goal of the Novoplatonic practitioner is to achieve union or communion with The One through intellectual and spiritual ascent. This is typically accomplished through philosophical contemplation, ascetic practices, and a process of purification. The soul, by shedding its attachment to the material world and cultivating virtue, can gradually ascend back to its divine source. Novoplatonism had a profound influence on subsequent philosophical and theological thought, particularly in Christian, Jewish, and Islamic mysticism.