HIEROCLES Meaning and
Definition
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Hierocles (pronounced hi-er-uh-kleez) is a noun with Greek origins that can refer to two different historical figures. Firstly, in political history, Hierocles was a governor and imperial administrator in the Byzantine Empire during the 4th and 5th centuries. He is particularly known for his involvement in implementing a simplified administrative system called the Thematic System.
Secondly, in philosophical history, Hierocles was an influential Neoplatonist philosopher who lived during the 5th century CE. He is best known for his work "Elements of Ethics," which discusses the Stoic philosophy in detail. Hierocles' primary focus was on ethical behavior and moral development. From a Stoic perspective, he argued that individuals should strive to expand their circle of concern, starting with their immediate family and gradually extending it to encompass humanity as a whole. Hierocles coined the term "oikeiosis" to describe this natural affinity for others and believed it to be the foundation of human ethics.
In summary, the term "Hierocles" refers either to a Byzantine governor who played a role in administrative reforms or to an ancient philosopher known for his work on ethics and Stoic philosophy. The context in which the term is used is crucial for determining which of these historical figures is being referred to.
Etymology of HIEROCLES
The word Hierocles has its roots in Ancient Greek. It is derived from two Greek words: hieros meaning sacred or divine, and kles meaning glory or renowned. Therefore, the name Hierocles can be roughly translated to mean sacred glory or divine renown.
