Alegoryzująca teologia Ferekydesa: między obrazem a pojęciem

Abstract

The present paper shows that Pherecydes’ theology is an important transitional stage in the complex process of gradual transformation of various mythological images into more sophisticated philosophical concepts. Three of Pherecydes’ highly enigmatic images are given special focus here: (1) the marriage of Zas with Chthonie and the embroidering of the robe, (2) the winged tree with the embroidered robe upon it and – finally – (3) the battle between Kronos and Ophioneus. This article argues that Pherecydes’ theology makes use of such common images as wedding, weaving, having wings and fighting to allegorically express more philosophical notions: the creation and arrangement of the world, the ability to self-support in space and the divinity of the first principles. The allegorical nature of Pherecydes’ theology arises from the fact that his images retain their literal and concrete meanings while at the same time evoking more metaphorical and abstract senses. Thus, Pherecydes’ mythological images precede and prefigure philosophical concepts, although their figurativeness cannot be equated with our contemporary understanding of the term.