John Finamore on Iamblichean Theurgy in Theory and Practice
Apr 13, 2022
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Professor John Finamore discusses Iamblichean theurgy in theory and practice, including the concepts of theirji as a sacred rite, separating the soul from the body, the relationship between Yumlokoz and Porphyry, and the evolving perception of Yamblika's views on ritual and magic.
The practice of Theurgy involves a gradual process of purifying the soul and practicing virtues to connect with the gods and achieve a higher state of intellect.
Yamlika's emphasizes the importance of performing rituals correctly and purifying one's soul to create a receptive channel for the gods' illumination in Theurgy.
Deep dives
Theurgic ritual and the separation of body and soul
Yamlika's describes a sacred rite called Theurgy, which aims to separate the soul from the body and elevate it to higher realms. This ritual involves a priest, theurgus, who leads the individual through the process of ascension. Theurgy is seen as a means to connect with the gods and receive their illumination. It is a gradual process that requires purifying the soul and practicing virtues. In contrast to Plotinus, Yamlika's emphasizes the need for ritual and the involvement of a theurgus to facilitate the soul's ascent.
The role of ritual in theurgic practices
Yamlika's views ritual as a crucial aspect of Theurgy. He believes that specific rituals and practices help align the practitioner with the divine and create a receptive channel for the gods' illumination. Yamlika's distinguishes between different levels of rituals, from more material ones to poetic and less material ones. He emphasizes the importance of performing rituals correctly and purifying one's soul to achieve the desired connection with the gods.
Theurgy and metaphysics
Yamlika's offers a rational account of Theurgy, grounding it in a thorough metaphysical framework. Theurgy, for him, is not an irrational or superstitious practice, but a means to engage with the divine in a structured and thoughtful way. He draws heavily on Plato's philosophy, adapting and reinterpreting concepts from Platonic texts. Yamlika's seeks to reconcile the ascent of the soul with Plato's teachings, presenting Theurgy as a path to separate the soul from the body and achieve a higher state of intellect.
Evolution of Theurgy in later Platonist thought
Yamlika's ideas on Theurgy had a significant impact on later Platonist thought. While we do not have extensive descriptions of how later Platonists, such as Proclus and Damascus, viewed Theurgy, Yamlika's influence is evident. Theurgy continued to be seen as a significant practice, with its rational and metaphysical underpinnings. Theurgical rituals and the use of intermediaries, such as angels and heroes, remained part of the Platonist tradition. Yamlika's work on Theurgy provided a foundation for further exploration and interpretation by later Platonist philosophers.
We discuss the practices lying behind the descriptions in the De mysteriis, and the theory behind the practices. Professor John Finamore is our guide through the labyrinth of evidence about theurgy.
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