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Are there any notable works or texts that serve as foundational documents for Neoplatonism, and what do they say about the movement's core beliefs and values?

Itzel Skiggs

Hey there,

Absolutely, Neoplatonism is a philosophical movement that has a rich tradition of foundational texts that have helped shape its core beliefs and values. One notable work that is closely associated with Neoplatonism is "The Enneads" by Plotinus. Plotinus' philosophy is centered on the concept of the One, which is an overarching, transcendent entity that gives meaning and purpose to all things in the universe. Plotinus believed that the One was the source of all existence, and that it was the ultimate reality that transcended even the realm of ideas.

Another essential text that embodies much of what Neoplatonism is about is "The Timaeus" by Plato. In the Timaeus, Plato explores the nature of the universe and its origins, and he makes use of many of the concepts and theories that would later come to be associated with Neoplatonism. Plato's concept of the Forms, for example, which are eternal, immutable entities that underlie all things in the world, is a central tenet of Neoplatonic philosophy.

Moving beyond these specific texts, there are a few core beliefs and values that are central to Neoplatonism. Firstly, as I mentioned earlier, there is the belief that there is a transcendent, all-encompassing One that gives meaning and purpose to the universe. Additionally, Neoplatonists believed in the existence of a hierarchical universe, in which certain beings and entities were higher and more important than others. This idea is closely related to the concept of the Forms -- the Forms are considered to be higher and more important than the physical objects that they give rise to.

Finally, Neoplatonism emphasizes the importance of personal spiritual development and transcendence. The goal of life, according to Neoplatonist thinkers, is to strive towards an understanding of the One and to achieve a state of oneness with it. This goal is achieved through a process of spiritual purification and contemplation, in which one gradually sheds the distractions and impurities of the material world in order to achieve a higher level of consciousness.

Overall, Neoplatonism is a complex and nuanced philosophical movement that draws on a rich tradition of texts and ideas. While there are certainly many different strands of Neoplatonic thought, the core beliefs and values that I've outlined here are foundational to the movement as a whole. I hope that helps answer your question!

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