Jústínus píslarvottur og heimspekiskólarnir

Abstract

This essay discusses Justin Martyr and his relationship to contemporary philosophical schools, Stoicism and Platonism in particular. Justin’s references and allusions to Stoicism is considered first, on the basis of which it seems clear that even though he was very fond of the ethics of the Stoics, Justin was decidedly critical of their cosmo-theology, especially their doctrines on the (physical) nature of God, on the conflagration of the world, and on fate. It is pointed out in the essay that Justin was probably influenced by Platonism in this regard, since he was after all a Platonist before he turned to Christianity, and since Platonism and Stoicism were rigorous opponents at this time in cosmo-theological matters. The essay also discusses Justin’s relationship to Platonism where it is emphasised that Platonism to a large extent continued to be Justin’s ideological frame of reference, even after his turn to Christianity. Finally, an attempt is made to answer the difficult question as to why Justin chose to leave Platonism and turn to Christianity. On the basis of his description in the prologue of his Dialogue the conclusion is drawn that Justin had a very pragmatic understanding of philosophy and theology, which made him re-evaluate certain Platonic teachings about the relationship between the human soul and God. According to Justin, this relationship was fully addressed only by Christianity.