ABSTRACT
Iamblichus was born in Chalcis in north Syria, an intellectually lively city in a prosperous region, which had been at peace for over 200 years. He became a student of Porphyry, an important neo-Platonic philosopher, and probably studied with him in Rome or Sicily. Therefore, in his philosophy, Iamblichus tried to harmonize the rational discourse of classical Greek philosophy with the ancient religious practices of Egypt, Assyria, and Chaldaea. Iamblichus wrote a great deal, but much of it has been lost. He also established the definitive neo-Platonic curriculum, which was followed for the next two centuries. Neo-Platonic theologians had also applied allegorical methods to Jewish and Christian scriptures, but Iamblichus’ systematic formulation laid the foundations for biblical exegesis by theologians and also influenced others, such as Dante. Iamblichus’ view contrasts with that of the Gnostics and of some other neo-Platonists. Iamblichus’ philosophy and theurgy were very influential on later neo-Platonists, such as Proclus.
