Iamblichus' Life of Pythagoras

CHAP. I.

Since it is usual for all men of sound understanding to call on divinity when entering into any philosophical discussion, it is certainly much more appropriate to do this in the consideration of that philosophy which justly receives its name from the divine Pythagoras. For as it derives its origin from the Gods, it cannot be apprehended without their inspiring aid. To which we may also add that its beauty and magnitude so greatly surpass human power that it is impossible to survey it at a single glance. Rather, one can only gradually collect some portion of this philosophy when, with the Gods as guides, one quietly approaches it.

On all these accounts, therefore, having invoked the Gods as our leaders and turning both ourselves and our discussion toward them, we shall acquiesce in whatever they may command us to do. We shall not, however, make any apology for the fact that this sect has been neglected for a long time, nor for its concealment by foreign disciplines and certain arcane symbolsHidden or secret signs/teachings., nor for it having been obscured by false and spurious writings, nor for many other such-like difficulties by which it has been impeded. For the will of the Gods is sufficient for us, in conjunction with which it is possible to sustain things even more arduous than these. But after the Gods, we shall unite ourselves—as if to a leader—to the prince and father of this divine philosophy, of whose origin and country we must rise a little higher in our investigation.