This is a new sub-genre for me; ‘Biographies about ancient dudes written by other ancient dudes’. Iamblichus wrote this book about Pythagoras life and teachings around 300 AD.
The book is fascinating, often boring and sometimes complicated.
Notes
📝 He traveled everywhere he thought he could find wisdom. “He thus passed 22 year in the sanctuary of temples, studying astronomy and geometry and being initiates in no casual or superficial manner to in the mysteries of the gods”. On top of that he studied 12 years of the sciences.
📝 He was regraded as a divinity and was a cult leader.
📝 People looking for apprenticeship with Pythagoras were studied and observed for a long before getting the thumbs up. If they passed these initial tests they had to spend 5 years in silence to learn to control their speech before they could see Pythagoras face to face.
📝 According to this book, Pythagoras l could tame animals by talking to them, be in several places at the same time and speak to rivers. (This book reminds me of Life of a Yogi in many ways..)
Video review of the Life of Pythagoras by Iamblicus
⭐️ TAKEAWAY
Pythagoras studied diligently under the best mentors in the world for +33 years. Then he started his career as a teacher. In modern society we expect things to go fast. For me this is was a great reminder of the value of playing long game and be patient.
Now I have this weird urge to join a sect for some reason. 😆
⚖️ VERDICT
I’m happy I read it but I don’t think this is for everyone.
Who’s your favorite Hellenistic philosopher? 🤔
⭐️ ⭐️ out of 5
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