Book cover for Epinomis: The Sequel to Laws - A Late Dialogue on Astronomy, Theology, and the Nature of the Divine by Plato

Epinomis

The Sequel to Laws - A Late Dialogue on Astronomy, Theology, and the Nature of the Divine

2025 Released
46 Pages
2-3 Hours
Audiobook Unavailable
Hardback Unavailable
The Library of AlexandriaISBN 9781806293124
Translated by Tim Zengerink

What if the highest knowledge was not found in laws-but in the stars?

In Epinomis, Plato (or his student Philip of Opus) completes the philosophical arc begun in Laws. While Laws built a grounded legal and moral framework, Epinomis reaches upward, proposing that true wisdom lies in understanding the cosmos. Here, astronomy is not mere observation-it is the path to divine wisdom.

This modern translation illuminates the complex philosophical landscape of one of Plato's most enigmatic works. It explores the role of divine reason, the immortality of the soul, and the educational value of learning the movements of celestial bodies. It is both an invitation and a challenge-urging the reader to transcend the earthly and seek a life in harmony with the cosmos.

What You'll Discover in This Modern Translation:

  • A Cosmic Sequel to Laws - The final philosophical vision that expands Plato's legal theory into a theology of the stars
  • Astronomy as Divine Education - Learn how understanding the heavens is portrayed as the highest path to virtue
  • The Role of the Divine Mind - Engage with a universe governed by reason, not randomness
  • A Modern, Insightful Translation - Faithfully rendered for clarity without losing philosophical depth
  • Timeless Reflections on the Soul - Delve into teachings on immortality, spiritual alignment, and divine order

Whether you approach it as a theological manifesto or a metaphysical mystery, Epinomis is an essential read for anyone interested in the meeting point of ancient science, religion, and philosophy.

Plato

Plato (approx. 424-327 BC) was an ancient Greek philosopher who is commonly regarded as the centermost figure of Western philosophy. During the Classical period of Ancient Greece, he was based in Athens where he founded his own academy and created the Platonist school of thought. Plato's writings touched on a wide range of subjects, including science, human nature, love, sexuality, and metaphysics. He was particularly interested in reconciling the seemingly irreconcilable, writing at length about the dual natures of perception and reality, nature and custom, and body and soul. His works and ideals are among the most influential in Western history, commanding interest, and challenging readers of every era to question their reality and live as paragons of justice and virtue.

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