Definition
Plato (d. 347 B.C.E.), known in Arabic as Afiaton, was a foundational figure in Western philosophy whose extensive body of work influenced not only his contemporaries but also future generations, including Islamic scholars. Plato’s writings, partially translated into Arabic, provided a rich ground for medieval Islamic thinkers to explore concepts of metaphysics, ethics, and political theory.
Etymology
The name “Plato” (Πλάτων) traces its roots to the Greek language, where it means “broad” or “wide,” possibly referring to his physical stature or breadth of thought.
Background
Plato, a student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founded the Academy in Athens, one of the earliest institutions of higher learning in the Western world. His dialogues explored a wide range of topics, including justice, beauty, equality, and the nature of reality.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 347 B.C.E.: Death of Plato.
- Medieval Period (8th-13th centuries): Plato’s works were translated and studied by Islamic scholars during the Islamic Golden Age.
- 950 C.E.: Al-Farabi writes “Philosophy of Plato,” providing a detailed account of Plato’s philosophies.
- 1037 C.E.: Death of Ibn Sina, who significantly engaged with Platonic thought.
- 1198 C.E.: Death of Ibn Rushd, a profound commentator on both Plato and Aristotle.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
In medieval Islamic culture, Plato was referred to with reverence as the “divine Plato” due to his profound metaphysical investigations, distinguishing him from the more empirical Aristotle. Muslim philosophers smoothly integrated Plato’s ideas with Islamic thought, creating a unique synthesis that contributed to various fields including law, ethics, and politics.
Synonyms
- Afiaton (Arabic transliteration of Plato)
Antonyms
- Aristotle in terms of differing philosophical approaches.
Related Terms
- Metaphysics: A branch of philosophy exploring the nature of reality, which Plato extensively explored.
- The Republic: A Socratic dialogue authored by Plato concerning justice and the ideal state.
- Laws: Another dialogue by Plato, also extensively commented upon by Islamic thinkers, focusing on law and governance.
Exciting Facts
- Plato’s “Allegory of the Cave,” from “The Republic,” remains one of the most influential metaphors concerning knowledge and enlightenment.
- Al-Farabi and other Islamic philosophers highly valued Plato’s “Laws” for its insights on lawmaking within a divine framework.
Quotations
- “Philosophy is the highest music.” — Al-Farabi
- “The soul is like an unlearned tablature, but ready to be written upon according to Plato’s melodies.” — Ibn Sina
Suggested Literature and Other Sources for Further Studies
- “The Republic” by Plato, translated by Allan Bloom.
- “Al-Madina Al-Fadila” (The Virtuous City) by Al-Farabi.
- “The Incoherence of the Philosophers” by Al-Ghazali.
- “The Philosophy of Plato and Aristotle” by Al-Farabi.
- “Medieval Islamic Philosophy” in the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy.
Inspirational Thought
As Plato taught us to wonder and Ibn Sina showed us to believe, let your search for truth embrace the vast expanse of wisdom that transcends time and culture.
Farewell, dear reader—may your journey through history and philosophy inspire you as Plato’s ideals of truth and justice have inspired countless minds across epochs and cultures.
— Dr. Hassan Ibn Kalem, October 3rd, 2023
