Divine Harmony: The Life and Teachings of Pythagoras

Rating:
Summary: Most mysterious of ancient philosophers
Review: Considered by many to be the first important Western teacher of wisdom, exalted by such luminaries as Socrates and Plato, the stories that have come down to us about Pythagoras and his teachings continue to resonate and have value in our modern world. This precious little book (159 pages) is written simply, introducing the life and teachings of one of the most mysterious of ancient philosophers.

The book is organized brilliantly; touching on all aspects of the life of Pythagoras and his teachings, ranging from knowledge and friendship, mathematics, music, care of the self and magic and miracles. Particular attention is devoted to the Pythagorian community and the followers of his teachings during his relatively long stay on the planet, (he nearly reached the age of one hundred) until his enforced death by his enemies through starvation, while taking asylum in the temple of the Muses.

At the end of the book is written The Golden Verses, a poetic guideline or introduction to the Pythagorean way of life. In a word, this is an ancient 'self-help' treatise that should be posted on one's shaving mirror, and attempted to be practiced everyday. If you do anything at all, read these ancient verses, as they are inspiring and valuable to living. As the authors state about them: "That they are hard to date with accuracy attests to the fact that they convey timeless truths."

As a starting point to the study of philosophy or just mere curiousity about the source of the famous Pythagorean Theorem, Divine Harmony is a valuable book to read and own.

This book is recommended highly.

Rating:
Summary: There IS hope for the future of humankind - back in the past
Review: Have you ever wondered why the world seems to be on the brink of utter chaos? Have we put aside the admonitions and teachings of ancient philospohers and thinkers only to find ourselves firmly entrenched in a world bent on destruction? The Pythagorean mindset is one of stark beauty, simplicity, common sense, and discipline. Pythagoras was a Greek seer (some thought him to be a god), with the ability to think with his soul. After a time, his life was threatened. He lived for a time in southern Italy where he had a following of like-minded people. He was a man of wealthy and noble birth, yet his words speak to the hearts of all manner of humankind. This book is a treasure - priceless. Were our world leaders to take the words of Pythagoras to heart, we might be able to mend the wounds of this old world. Pray that it may come to pass that the words of the ancients will win the approval of the modern thinkers.

Rating:
Summary: For the magic crystal, metaphysical set.
Review: I wanted a book that gave me more insight into a great thinker. A mathamatician who gave us the theorum bearing his name. What I got was a book where in the first chapter, the author says that Pythagoras may have been a direct decendent from the Gods! Went down hill from there. No information on mathematics, astronomy, geometry, physics or any of the other fields that Pythagoras studied and helped advance. Instead we get a glorified view of a cult leader and a focus on the metaphysical.