The Theology of the Epinomis

<p>This is the first monograph devoted to the theology of the <i>Epinomis</i>. It argues that the work offers a revised Platonic conception of the divine better suited to the political-religious imperatives of the post-Classical age.</p><p>The <i>Epinomis </i>is the ‘appendix’ to Plato’s <i>Laws </i>likely written by Plato’s student and disciple, Philip of Opus, who is believed to have taken care of the arrangement and posthumous editing of the <i>Laws </i>into twelve books. Through a comprehensive analysis of the <i>Epinomis</i>’ lexicon, and comparisons with the <i>Corpus Platonicum</i>, Vera Calchi offers readers an insight into the <i>Epinomis</i>’ philosophical and historical context, purpose, and legacy. Calchi argues that Philip effectively reshapes Plato’s metaphysical language into a theology premised on the immanence of God in the heavens. The resulting account of God’s providential activity in the cosmos, which offers a new way of thinking about morality and political order, can be regarded as a major step towards the cosmic theology of the Hellenistic period.</p><i><p>The Theology of the Epinomis </p></i>is suitable for students and scholars of ancient philosophy, particularly those working on the <i>Epinomis </i><P>and Platonic philosophy. It will also be of interest to those studying the history of religion and theology in antiquity.</P>