#19: Philo of Alexandria and “Pessimistic” Free Will

In this episode we move farther afield to Egypt and the Diaspora community of Alexandria. How did Philo of Alexandria (also known as Philo Judaeus) approach the human desire to sin while navigating between a belief in divine revelation and an acceptance of Greek thought?

How does Philo reconcile the existence of human sin with God (in an unusually daring way)?
How can Philo combine belief in free will with a truly pessimistic view of human nature?
Why did Philo’s books become important to early Christians?

And as always, leave me your questions and comments below!

4 Responses to "#19: Philo of Alexandria and “Pessimistic” Free Will"

Shayla says:

July 28, 2017 at 12:57 am

Hello Miryam,
Absolutely love your podcasts! I’m seeing a recurring theme when it comes to old philosophies and perspectives of second temple period. They seem to “fill in the blanks” when trying to understand the lack of detail in the Bible and many seem to add to what G-d saids. Yet, it is nice to understand where namy modern ideas come from and does give a grasp on the less detailed parts of the Bible.
1. Miryam Brand says:
  
  July 28, 2017 at 7:38 am
  
  Hi Shayla,
  
  Glad you’re enjoying them! Yes, Second Temple interpreters absolutely do try to “fill in the blanks” in the Bible, an endeavor that continues in Rabbinic midrash and Talmud.
  
  Looking forward to more of your comments,
  Miryam
  1. Shayla says:
    
    July 28, 2017 at 6:43 pm
    
    I’m not really familiar with Rabbinic midrash or Talmud, for studying the Scriptures in depth is an endeavor in itself:) Mainly heard these commentaries through you and another second temple teacher Nehemiah Gordon. Certainly very fascinating!
    1. Miryam Brand says:
      
      August 7, 2017 at 10:07 pm
      
      Thank you!

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