EPICUREANISM EPICUREAN
Epicurus taught his followers from his school known as, "The Garden" around 300 BC. The goals of Epicureanism are that we should find happiness and become content with life in the here and now, and reject concepts that deal with gods or ideas of heaven and the afterlife.
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FAQ on Epicurean, Epicureanism (5)
1.What is Epicureanism and who founded it?
Epicureanism is an ancient Greek philosophy and way of life founded in Athens around 307 BCE by the philosopher Epicurus. It teaches that the ultimate goal of human life is to achieve ataraxia (a state of profound peace and freedom from mental anxiety) and aponia (the absence of physical pain). Epicurus established a highly influential school called 'The Garden,' which uniquely welcomed women and enslaved people as equal members.
2.Is Epicureanism considered an actual religion?
Epicureanism is historically classified as a philosophical system rather than an organized religion, but it functioned as a substitute for religion in the ancient world. It lacked traditional religious hallmarks like sacrificial altars, a priesthood, and prayer requests. However, Epicureans gathered in close-knit communities, revered Epicurus as a savior-like figure, celebrated his life on sacred calendar days, and practiced a deeply structured ethical lifestyle focused on cosmic peace.
3.What is the Epicurean Paradox (The Problem of Evil)?
The Epicurean Paradox is a famous logical riddle regarding the problem of evil and suffering, historically attributed to Epicurus. It argues that if God is all-powerful (omnipotent) and all-good (omnibenevolent), then evil should not exist. The paradox presents four logical dilemmas:
1. If God wants to prevent evil but cannot, he is not all-powerful.
2. If he can prevent evil but chooses not to, he is malevolent (evil).
3. If he can and wants to, then why does evil exist?
4. If he neither can nor wants to, why call him God?
4.What is the core Epicurean view on death?
The foundational Epicurean stance on mortality is summarized by the famous phrase: 'Death is nothing to us'. Epicurus relied on an atomic theory of reality, arguing that the human soul dissolves into individual atoms at the exact moment of physical death. Because there is no conscious afterlife, there is no pain or awareness after death. Epicureans teach that fearing death is completely irrational, as we cannot experience being dead.
5.What is the difference between Epicureanism and Hedonism?
While Epicureanism is technically a form of hedonism because it views pleasure as the highest good, it differs drastically from raw or modern hedonism:
* Raw Hedonism (e.g. Cyrenaicism): Advocates for the aggressive pursuit of immediate, intense, and short-term physical pleasures (like overeating or reckless partying), regardless of the consequences.
* Epicureanism: Champions prudent, long-term mental peace. Epicurus taught that overindulgence leads to intense physical suffering and mental anxiety later on, preferring simple food, moderate living, and intellectual calmness over extravagant luxuries.
Scripture Themes on Epicurean, Epicureanism (1)
| 1. Apostle Paul debates philosophers at the Areopagus in Athens | Acts 17:22-34 |
