Концептот за Бог кај Апулеј

Abstract

The article shows some of Apuleius’ stances on the nature and the attributes of god, as well as his almost apophatic approach. Several aspects of his ontology are outlined, with a focus on his demonological conception, the concepts on the status and characteristics of divinities, and the need for abstaining from discourse on god. Through chosen examples from his works On Plato and his doctrine (De Platone et eius dogmate) and The god of Socrates (De deo Socratis) the main attributes of god are listed, such as one, supreme, unchangeable, eternal, a creator and a ruler, whose essence is indescribable, and the concept of whom is formed by intellection and through perceivable theophanies. The problem of ineffability of god is analyzed through examples from Apologia, through his refusal to talk about god in front of the mob and in unsuitable circumstances, and also by referencing the possible origins of this need for silence.