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The Therapeutae as the Best Paradigm for the Contemplative Life

Romulus D. Stefanut

2026 DOI: 10.1628/978-3-16-157049-0 (opens in new tab)

Study at a glance

AI-extracted from the abstract
Characteristics Theoretical or philosophical paper
Key points Argues that Philo's depiction of the Therapeutae is the best exemplum of a Hellenistic Jewish contemplative life in first-century CE Alexandria, and that Philo constructs this contemplative ideal by bringing together insights from various strands of Hellenistic philosophy and religion.

Abstract

Philos Therapeutae is the best exemplum for what a Hellenistic Jewish contemplative life would look like in first century CE Alexandria. In constructing the contemplative life of the Therapeutae, Philo brings together various insights from Hellenistic philosophy and religion.