How Do You Spell NEOPLATONIC?

1. Neoplatonic refers to the philosophical system that synthesizes elements of Platonic thought with other philosophical schools and religious traditions. Named after the Greek philosopher Plato, Neoplatonism emerged in the 3rd century AD and had a profound influence on subsequent philosophical, religious, and mystical traditions.

   At its core, Neoplatonism posits the existence of a hierarchical metaphysical reality. It teaches that an ultimate, transcendent source called "the One," or "the Good," emanates and cascades downwards, generating a series of lesser, dependent realities. This descending hierarchy includes divine principles such as nous (intellect) and psyche (soul), culminating in matter. Understanding and uniting with this transcendent source constitutes the ultimate aim of human existence.

   Neoplatonism views the material world as flawed and transient, emphasizing the pursuit of spiritual and intellectual knowledge as means of overcoming its limitations. It embraces the idea that the human soul is immortal and can ascend through a process of purification, contemplation, and assimilation of higher realities.

   Neoplatonic philosophy profoundly influenced various fields, including theology, mysticism, and literature. It greatly impacted Christianity through its compatibility with many Christian concepts, acting as a bridge between Hellenistic philosophical traditions and early Christian thought.

   Overall, Neoplatonic philosophy represents an intellectual and spiritual framework that seeks to understand the nature of reality, the human condition, and the way towards spiritual enlightenment through the synthesis of Platonic ideals with other philosophical and religious beliefs.

Common Misspellings for NEOPLATONIC

The word "Neoplatonic" comes from the combination of two terms: "Neo-" and "Platonic".

- "Neo-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "neos", meaning "new" or "recent". It is commonly used in English to indicate a revival, modernization, or a new form of a particular doctrine or movement.

- "Platonic" refers to the philosophy of Plato, a Greek philosopher who lived in the 4th century BCE. Plato's ideas and teachings formed the basis for what is known as Platonism, which focused on the concept of ideal forms and the pursuit of truth through reason and contemplation.

Therefore, "Neoplatonic" can be understood as the modern or revived form of the Platonic philosophy or influenced by the principles of Platonism.