Divine invocation

Definition

Divine invocation refers to the practice of calling upon or appealing to a deity or divine presence in order to establish a connection, seek guidance, or facilitate a spiritual experience. In Neoplatonic mysticism, this concept is essential as it embodies the longing of the soul to unite with the divine and experience transcendence beyond the material world. The invocation serves as both a ritualistic and philosophical approach to understanding the nature of the divine and the process of returning to it.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Neoplatonic thought, divine invocation is seen as a way for individuals to elevate their souls toward higher levels of existence and understanding.
2. This practice often involves specific rituals, prayers, or meditative states that are intended to draw closer to the divine essence.
3. Divine invocation highlights the Neoplatonic belief in the interconnectedness of all existence, where invoking the divine can lead to personal transformation.
4. The act of invocation can also involve understanding one's own nature and place within the greater metaphysical hierarchy outlined by Neoplatonism.
5. Key figures in Neoplatonism, such as Plotinus, emphasized that through divine invocation, practitioners could achieve a union with the One, transcending ordinary consciousness.

Review Questions

• How does divine invocation reflect the goals of Neoplatonic mysticism?
  • Divine invocation is closely tied to the goals of Neoplatonic mysticism as it represents the soul's desire to connect with the divine source, known as the One. Through invocation, individuals seek to transcend their material existence and move towards a higher state of being. This practice exemplifies Neoplatonism's emphasis on personal transformation and unity with the ultimate reality.
• What rituals or practices are commonly associated with divine invocation in Neoplatonic traditions?
  • In Neoplatonic traditions, divine invocation often includes rituals such as meditative prayers, contemplative practices, or specific ceremonies aimed at focusing one's consciousness on the divine. Practitioners may use chants or visualizations to aid their connection with higher realms. These practices create an environment conducive to spiritual elevation and fostering an intimate relationship with the divine.
• Evaluate how divine invocation contributes to our understanding of metaphysical relationships in Neoplatonism.
  • Divine invocation significantly contributes to our understanding of metaphysical relationships within Neoplatonism by illustrating how all beings emanate from the One and are interconnected. Through invoking the divine, practitioners recognize their place within this hierarchy and strive for a return to their source. This process reflects Neoplatonism’s view that through spiritual practices like invocation, individuals can bridge the gap between themselves and the ultimate reality, fostering deeper insights into existence and unity.

Related terms

Neoplatonism: A philosophical system that builds on the ideas of Plato, emphasizing the role of a singular source of all reality, known as the One, and the process of returning to this source.

Emanation: The process by which all things are thought to flow from a single source, in Neoplatonism, where all beings emanate from the One in a hierarchical order.

Mysticism: A spiritual belief system that emphasizes direct, personal experiences of the divine or ultimate reality, often characterized by practices such as meditation and contemplation.