Four philosophical ideas ancient Greek philosophers ‘borrowed’ from the Egyptians

Nii Ntreh January 26, 2020
Image result for ma'at
A statuette of Ma’at, the ancient Egyptian god of truth, harmony and balance. Photo Credit: En.lisapoyakama.org

The idea of the universe as a rational realm

A key fundamental in academic metaphysics and epistemology is the stipulation that life or the world as we perceive it, contains meaning and truths.

The idea here is that while we live, we need to find ways to discover the truths of our existence as well as find the right balance upon which the world was made.

These thoughts are quite abundant in pre- Socratic philosophy and afterward. But much earlier than those times, the Greeks are believed to have learned them from how the Egyptians saw their goddess, Ma’at, the deity responsible for truth, balance and harmony.

The point is not so much that ancient Greeks had no ideas of truth, balance or harmony. But the placement of these concepts in a cosmic or ontological scheme of things was most likely learned from the Egyptians.

Last Edited by:Sandra Appiah Updated: January 26, 2020

Conversations

Must Read

Connect with us

Join our Mailing List to Receive Updates