Abstract: On close reading of the Enneads, the work written by
Plotinus, we can see that the One, the ultimate factor in his system of
hypostases, can be examined on the base of many concepts that are interwoven,
creating many paths for approaching the divine level. Of course, since all the
hypostases, Matter – Nature – Soul - Intelligence, are dependent on the
infinite power of the One, theoretically and practically everything can be
related to the One or the God or the Good. But there are some modes of
existence most related to the One, thus illuminating the Plotinian mystical
empiricism. The One, on the one hand, is related to empiricism as It presupposes
the immediate approach of It, being immanent and transcendent at the same time,
and on the other hand, It is related to mysticism as It cannot be perfectly
conceived and experienced otherwise than through the mystical union.
For the rest of the article see: Katelis Viglas, “Plotinus’Mystical Empiricism in Relation to the One”, Philosophy Pathways electronic journal, Issue number 171, 7th April
2012 (ISSN 2043-0728).