Four great philosophies derived from Platonism dominated the gentile world. [1] The Fourth Book of Maccabees exemplifies the great inroad of Stoicism and the penetration of Platonic philosophy among Hellenized Jewish beliefs. [2] Christianity incorporated Babylonian and Persian ideas and Plato's theories, making the teachings more acceptable to diverse audiences. [3] The Platonist emphasis on the eternal order of heaven mirrors Confucianism's focus on the Way of Heaven over the potential God concept. [4]
Hellenized Jewish beliefs, affected by Platonic philosophy and Stoic doctrines, were harmonized by Philo of Alexandria to form the foundation of Christianity. [5] Jesus' comments on Plato's teachings sought to lay a more trustworthy foundation for understanding reality in the universe. [6]
Jesus recommended using nature parables to teach truths, alluding to the natural as an unreal shadow of spirit realities, influenced by Greek idealism. [7]
Lingering belief in reincarnation was tolerated by older Jewish teachers, Plato, Philo, and many Essenes, who believed in expiating sins from past lives. [8]