An in-depth exploration of ancient Greek concepts of existence and consciousness
The Platonic Explanation of Being
The Platonic explanation of being offers a profound insight into the nature of existence and consciousness. At its core is the concept of Ousia (οὐσία), an ancient Greek term that roughly translates to ‘being’ in English, though with subtle yet significant differences[1].
Understanding Ousia
Ousia represents a kind of overflowing, where awareness arises and flows into the senses and mind. This process involves three key movements:
- Procession: A formal moving forward or advancement out of itself
- Engagement: Fully interacting with experiences and giving them meaning
- Recession: Returning to itself, developing intelligence from the experience
Through this cycle, being is said to possess intelligence, directing its responses and interactions with experiences. It imparts vitality to the inanimate elemental matter that forms our bodies, essentially giving life[1].
The Hypostasis and the Ineffable One
The concept of ‘hypostases’ or layers of reality is crucial in understanding the Platonic view of existence. These levels range from our mundane, waking reality to higher states of being that can be accessed through meditation, altered states, or exceptional experiences[2].
The Five Hypostases
| Level | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. The One/Good | The ineffable source beyond description |
| 2. The Demiurge | Divine intelligence and creator |
| 3. The Anima Mundi | Universal world soul |
| 4. Body and Soul | Individual living beings |
| 5. Material World | Non-living matter |
Ousia and Normal Existence
The principle of ‘likeness’ governs the relationship between these hypostases. The Demiurge, arising as an idea in the mind of God, creates subsequent realities based on its intelligence and vitality. These ideal blueprints, called Forms, give rise to the diversity of life and mental concepts[3].
A Simplified Guide to Ousia
Ousia (οὐσία) can be understood as a dynamic form of being that flows in three movements:
- Proceeds outward from pure awareness
- Engages with experience
- Returns to itself with understanding
Modern Relevance
This ancient understanding aligns with contemporary views of:
- Consciousness as a fundamental aspect of reality
- The layered nature of experience
- The relationship between mind and matter
Key Insight
Understanding Ousia helps us recognize that:
- Our essential nature is pure awareness
- Intelligence is inherent in being itself
- Different levels of reality are connected through consciousness
