Christian Platonism: A History

Platonism has significantly impacted Christianity, providing an intellectual framework for its early development and renewal but also conflicting with its revelatory foundations. This comprehensive volume explores Christian Platonism's history, concepts, and issues, highlighting its enduring importance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 513 pages
Publication date: 13 April 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Platonism has held a pivotal position within Christianity and holds immense significance in comprehending the intricate tapestry of the Christian theological tradition. Throughout its history, Platonism has served as a vital philosophical and theological resource, providing Christianity with an intellectual framework that has played a pivotal role in its formative stages and subsequent periods of renewal. On the other hand, it has also been perceived as a compromising influence, potentially conflicting with the core revelations of the faith and distorting its inherent message. In either case, the undeniable significance of Platonism lies in its role as a defining force that shaped Christianity's identity and set it apart from other belief systems.

This groundbreaking volume, penned by an esteemed international team of scholars, delves into the rich history of Christian Platonism, spanning from antiquity to the present day. It explores key concepts and addresses pressing issues such as the environment, natural science, and materialism. The authors employ a comprehensive approach, drawing upon a diverse range of sources and methodologies to shed light on the evolution and complexities of Christian Platonism.

The book begins by tracing the historical roots of Christian Platonism, examining how it emerged within the context of ancient Greek philosophy and its influence on the development of Christian thought. It explores the contributions of prominent Platonist figures, such as Plotinus, Porphyry, and Iamblichus, and their impact on the formation of Christian doctrines and practices. The authors also examine the reception of Platonism in different Christian denominations, highlighting the diverse interpretations and adaptations that have taken place over centuries.

In the subsequent chapters, the book delves into the core concepts of Platonism, including the idea of the Forms, the soul's immortality, and the relationship between the physical world and the divine. It explores how these concepts have been interpreted and applied within Christian thought, addressing both the challenges and opportunities they present. The authors also examine the ethical and moral implications of Platonism, exploring how it can guide Christians in their daily lives and interactions with others.

Throughout the volume, the authors engage in a thoughtful and nuanced analysis of the issues at hand. They draw upon a wealth of scholarship and provide a comprehensive account of Christian Platonism's historical development, its key concepts, and its impact on Christian theology and philosophy. The book is accessible to scholars and students alike, offering a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of this complex and influential tradition.

In conclusion, Platonism has played a central role
role in Christianity and is essential to a deep understanding of the Christian theological tradition. This landmark volume, written by an international team of scholars, examines the history of Christian Platonism from antiquity to the present day, covering key concepts and engaging issues such as the environment, natural science, and materialism. The book provides a comprehensive account of Christian Platonism's historical development, its key concepts, and its impact on Christian theology and philosophy. It is accessible to scholars and students alike, offering a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of this complex and influential tradition.

Weight: 770g
Dimension: 228 x 154 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108741408