Plato

Plato (c. 427–347 BCE) was an ancient Greek philosopher and one of the most influential figures in Western thought, whose works deeply influenced esoteric traditions. His philosophy, particularly in dialogues like The Republic and Timaeus, explores metaphysics, the nature of reality, and the concept of an ideal world beyond the material. His theory of Forms suggests that the physical world is a mere shadow of a higher, perfect reality, an idea later echoed in Hermeticism, Neoplatonism, and mystical traditions. Plato’s work also touches on esoteric themes, such as the myth of Atlantis and the soul’s journey toward enlightenment through knowledge and virtue.