Iamblichus

Iamblichus was a Syrian Neoplatonist philosopher, born around 245 in Chalcis ad Belum, Roman Empire. He is credited with determining a significant direction for Neoplatonism and also served as the biographer of Pythagoras. His philosophical contributions include detailed interpretations of Plotinus' ideas, systematic application of Pythagorean number symbolism, and integration of mythical elements influenced by Asian systems. Unlike Plotinus, Iamblichus reasserted the soul's embodiment in matter, considering matter divine. He established a school in Apamea, Syria, around 304 AD, where he designed a curriculum for studying Plato and Aristotle, though his commentaries on them survive only in fragments. Pythagoras was his ultimate authority, and he authored a ten-volume 'Collection of Pythagorean Doctrines'. His work 'Protrepticus' is notable for preserving substantial portions of the writings of the previously unknown sophist, Anonymus Iamblichi. Iamblichus is described as a man of great learning, renowned for his charity and self-denial, and he had numerous students. He is believed to have died around 325 AD. His philosophical system included a complex cosmology and theology, placing the Monad at the head, from which emanated the Nous and psyche. He proposed a tripartite division of the divine realm and believed in the influence of gods, angels, demons, and heroes on earthly events. His work also touched upon fate, evil, and the nature of numbers.