Communing with Non-Human Entities in Ancient Philosophy

Ancient philosophers like the Pythagoreans and Empedocles often engaged in practices that involved communicating with non-human entities to gain knowledge. This interaction was considered a standard aspect of Greco-Roman culture, with some individuals reportedly experiencing these communions daily, even in their dreams. The nature of the knowledge obtained from these encounters varied but included insights into the cosmos and existence. Such experiences highlight a tradition of seeking wisdom beyond ordinary human experience, suggesting an interconnectedness between spiritual practices and philosophical inquiry.