Porphyry's Approach to Esoteric Wisdom Traditions

Porphyry explores various esoteric wisdom traditions, finding wisdom in both Greek and barbarian sources. He highlights the influence of Plato and Pythagoras, as well as oracles and astrological divination, in his search for wisdom. His reading of ethnic wisdom acknowledges the differences between different peoples and philosophic schools, while also recognizing a discourse of a perennial truth accessible through multiple traditions. He examines the esoteric hermeneutics through which he interprets this multifaceted wisdom tradition, focusing on the cave of the nymphs and its hidden meanings. Porphyry also critiques Christianity's use of esoteric hermeneutics, framing it as a case of ideological warfare and offering genuine critical appraisal of their texts.