8 quotes
It is not Matter itself that is here meant, but the ultimate Cause of things incorporeal, which also existed before Matter.
Upon the Mother of the Gods (362)
With regard to which, though we are dull of sight, yet let us strive to clear away the mist from the eyes of the soul.
Upon the Mother of the Gods (362)
To what purpose, pray, exist all these things that be born? Whence come male and female?
Upon the Mother of the Gods (362)
This Attis, therefore, the intelligible Power, the holder together of things material below the Moon, having intercourse with the pre-ordained Cause of Matter, holds intercourse therewith, not as a male with a female, but as though flowing into it, since he is the same with it.
Upon the Mother of the Gods (362)
O Mother of gods and men, assister and colleague of mighty Jove! O source of the Intelligible Powers!
Upon the Mother of the Gods (362)
Must we then speak of this subject also: and shall we write concerning things that are not to be told, and shall we publish things not to be divulged, and secrets not to be spoken aloud?
Upon the Mother of the Gods (362)
The rite, therefore, enjoins upon us who are celestial by our nature, but who have been carried down to earth, to reap virtue joined with piety from our conduct upon earth, and to aspire upwards unto the deity, the primal source of being and the fount of life.
Upon the Mother of the Gods (362)
I am not indeed ignorant that certain over-wise people will call these legends "old wives' fables," and not worth listening to; but I think, for my part, that in such matters it is better to believe the testimony of nations than of those witty individuals, whose little soul is acute indeed, but has a clear insight into no one thing.
Upon the Mother of the Gods (362)