Theurgy, Paredroi, and Embodied Power in Neoplatonism and Late Antique Celestial Hierarchies

Bibliographic Data

ID3289784
AuthorsKatarina Pejovic (University of Toronto, corresponding author)
Year2024
Volume15
Issue3
Pages300
Publication date2024-02-28
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueReligions (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2077-1444 • E-ISSN: 2077-1444
PublisherMDPI AG (PUBLISHER • IT)
DOI10.3390/rel15030300
OpenAlexW4392232750
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited6

This article will place the rituals of the Greek Magical Papyri (PGM) for the acquisition of a supernatural assistant (paredros) into conversation with broader late antique debates surrounding the place of daimones within the celestial hierarchy. In considering the writings of Plotinus, Plutarch, Porphyry, and Iamblichus, it will survey points of contention surrounding questions of appropriate and inappropriate displays of ritual power, as facilitated by intermediary spirits who act as intercessors between humanity and the divine. Through analyzing the metaphysical underpinnings of the nature of the paredros, as variously articulated within the rituals for their conjuration within the Greek Magical Papyri, it will contextualize the aims of the ritualist against the backdrop of Iamblichus' theurgy in pursuit of mastery of-and intimate, transcendent communion with-the fundamental numinous nature of the world. In doing so, this article argues that Iamblichus' theurgy and the paredros rituals of the PGM ultimately grasp towards similar soteriological goals using different ritual methodologies; both seeking to elevate the incarnated body of the ritualist into a higher level of spiritual attainment through direct confrontation with the powers of nature

Antique · Art · Embodied cognition · Epistemology · Literature · Neoplatonism · Physics · Visual arts · Byzantine Studies and History · Classical Antiquity Studies · Historical, Religious, and Philosophical Studies · Philosophy

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