Theurgic Ripples in the Empire—The Legacy of Iamblichus
The New Antiquity January 1, 2026 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-09641-8_7 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThis chapter examines Iamblichus' Response to Porphyry, arguing that he redefined religious practice by emphasizing theurgy as a method for divine communication and spiritual ascent. It contends that Iamblichus influenced Emperor Julian, who adopted theurgic practices in his effort to revive traditional polytheism and unify the Roman Empire under a renewed religious framework. Julian's brief reign illustrates the practical application of Iamblichean theurgy in political and spiritual spheres.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Historical analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Emperor Metaphysics Politics Dominance genetics The renaissance |
| Key finding | Argues that Iamblichus' emphasis on theurgy as a means of divine communication and spiritual ascent influenced Emperor Julian's attempts to restore traditional polytheism and unify the empire. |
Abstract
Empire and beyond. It explores how Iamblichus’ Response to Porphyry sought to resignify religious practice, emphasising theurgy as a means of divine communication and spiritual ascent. The chapter highlights the influence of Iamblichus on key figures such as Emperor Julian, who embraced theurgic practices in his attempt to restore traditional polytheism and unify the empire under a renewed religious framework. Julian's reign, though brief, exemplifies the practical application of Iamblichean theurgy in both political and spiritual contexts.