Hierokles on Brahmin Culture: Brahmins were friends of gods (400 BCE)

Hierokles on visiting the Brahmins (Ο Ιεροκλή επισκέπτεται τους Βραχμάνους)

In his Book Philistores

Hierokles, Philistores, as cited by Stephanos of Byzantium (sixth century CE)

Hierokles, in his work Philistores, provides valuable insights into the Brahminical practices that were prevalent prior to the Persian invasion led by Alexander the Great in 334 BCE. His observations, likely written before this significant historical event, shed light on the cultural and religious customs of the Brahmins which had been in existence for at least four centuries prior, around 400 BCE. This period marks a rich tapestry of traditions and philosophical thought that influenced not only the local populace but also travelers and scholars from far-off lands. Notably, Alexander himself demonstrated a profound respect for the Brahmins of Gandhara, highlighting the interconnectedness of Greek and Indian cultures during this period. His encounters with these learned individuals not only enriched his own understanding of ethics and governance but also facilitated a wonderful exchange of ideas that would resonate throughout history.

Hierokles provides a glimpse into the lives of the Vedic Brahmins of the Gandhara province, a well-known Indian community esteemed for their wisdom and spiritual devotion. They are referred to as “φιλοσόφων καὶ θεοῖς φίλων” – philosophers and friends of the gods. Their relationship with divinity transcends the conventional notion of servitude; instead, they embody a culture where divinity permeates their daily lives. This intricate bond manifests in various rituals and traditions that celebrate the sacredness of nature, inviting the divine into every aspect of existence. These Brahmins not only engage in scholarly pursuits, delving into ancient Vedic texts that explore the mysteries of life and the cosmos, but they also perform sacred rites that foster harmony between humanity and the divine entities they revere. Their teachings and practices serve as a guiding light for their community, inspiring generations to seek wisdom, cultivate spirituality, and live in accordance with the principles of dharma, nurturing a profound sense of interconnectedness with the universe and all living beings.

According to Hierokles, these Brahmins worshipped Savita, the Sun (through the sacred Gayatri Mantra), demonstrating their deep reverence for the cosmic forces that sustain life and govern the universe. This mantra, revered for its profound meanings, encapsulates the essence of their spirituality, intricately linking their pursuit of Truth (Satyam) with the divine and the natural order. For them, divinity and truth were inextricably linked, forming a foundation upon which their philosophical beliefs were built. Their understanding of the universe was underscored by the recognition that ethical conduct was not merely a guideline but a reflection of this sacred connection. Engaging in rituals and practices that honored the cosmic flow, the Brahmins cultivated a deep awareness of their place within the larger tapestry of existence, which further enriched their moral and spiritual lives. In this framework, every action was deemed significant, as it echoed their commitment to live not just in pursuit of personal aspirations but also in alignment with universal principles that fostered harmony and balance.

Abstaining from all forms of meat, the Brahmins exemplified a commitment to non-violence and purity, harmonizing their existence with the natural world around them. Their lifestyle was not merely ascetic but rather an integration of practices that honored the sanctity of life, showcasing the core values of Brahminical culture during Hierokles’s time. This profound dedication to vegetarianism was not simply a dietary choice but a philosophical stance deeply embedded in their spiritual beliefs, reflecting respect for all living beings and the interconnectedness of life. Rituals and daily prayers were integral to their routine, serving both as a form of meditation and a way to cultivate an awareness of the moral implications of their actions. Through their adherence to such principles, the Brahmins not only preserved their cultural heritage but also contributed significantly to the broader discourse on ethical living and environmental stewardship, influencing generations to seek a harmonious balance with the earth’s ecosystems.

In summary, the Brahmans described by Hierokles represent a formidable legacy of philosophical inquiry and spiritual devotion, embodying a way of life where divinity, truth, and nature coexist in a unified tapestry of existence. Their practices serve as an enduring testament to their role as custodians of ancient wisdom, reflecting a profound understanding of the world and the cosmos.

In his Book Philistores

Hierokles, Philistores, as cited by Stephanos of Byzantium (sixth century CE)

Text

Brahmans, a very wise Indian people (ethnos), who are also called “Brahmans.” Hierokles in the Philistores (Lover of Knowledge) says:

After this I thought it worth my while to go and visit the Brahman tribe (phylon). These men are philosophers and friends of the gods. They are especially devoted to the sun. They abstain from all meats and live out in the open air. They honour truth. Their dress is made of the soft and skin-like fibres of stones, which they weave into a stuff that no fire bums or water cleanses. When their clothes get soiled or dirty, they are thrown into a blazing fire and the clothes come out quite white and bright.

Alternative version

Brahmans, a very wise Indian people (ethnos), who are also called “Brahmans.” Hierokles in his Philistores (Lover of Knowledge) says:

After this, I thought it worth my while to go and visit the Brahman tribe (phylon). These men are philosophers and friends of the gods, deeply respected for their wisdom and spiritual insight. They are especially devoted to the sun, recognizing its vital role in sustaining life and spiritual enlightenment.

The Brahmans practice a form of asceticism, abstaining from all meats, which symbolizes their commitment to purity and non-violence. Living out in the open air, they seek to connect with nature and the cosmos, fostering a harmonious relationship with the environment. Their way of life is steeped in rituals and traditions that honor truth and virtue.

Their attire is made from the soft and skin-like fibers of stones, which they skillfully weave into a fabric that is remarkable for its resilience and durability. This unique material defies conventional standards; it does not succumb to fire or the cleansing effects of water. When the garments become soiled or dirty, they do not wash them in the conventional sense. Instead, they are cast into a blazing fire, a ritualistic act that symbolizes purification and renewal. Once removed from the flames, the clothes emerge bright and white, representing the transformative power of fire in their cultural practices.

This practice not only reflects their beliefs in the sanctity of truth and cleanliness but also serves as a testament to their ingenuity and understanding of natural elements. Thus, the Brahmans encapsulate a lifestyle that harmonizes philosophy, spirituality, and practical survival, echoing their role as custodians of ancient wisdom in an ever-evolving world.

Source of translations: O. Priaulx, Indian Travels of Apollonius of Tyana, and the Indian Embassies to Rome from the Reign of Augustus to the Death of Justinian (London: Quaritch, 1873), 193-194.

Ἱεροκλῆς

ΦΙΛΙΣΤΟΡΕΣ

Latin

Brachmanes, Indica gens sapientissima, quos etiam Brachmas vocant. Hierocles in Philistoribus dicit: «Post haec operae pretium visum est Brachmanum visere tribum, virorum philosophorum diisque carorum, soli vero maxime dedicatorum. Hi ab esu carnium prorsus abstinent, sub dio totam aetatem degunt, et veritatem colunt. Utuntur veste linea ex petris facta: lapidum enim filamenta quaedam mollia et cutanea contexunt, ex quibus vestimenta fiunt neque igne comburenda neque aqua purganda; sed quum sordes et maculam contraxerint, in flammam conjecta, pura et plendida evadunt.»

Greek Text

Βραχμᾶνες, Ἰνδικὸν ἔθνος σοφώτατον,

οὓς καὶ Βράχμας καλοῦσιν.

Ἱεροκλῆς δ ̓ ἐν τοῖς Φιλίστορσί φησι·

“Μετὰ ταῦτα σπουδῆς ἄξιον ἐνομίσθη

τὸ Βραχμάνων ἰδεῖν φῦλον,

ἀνδρῶν φιλοσόφων καὶ θεοῖς φίλων,

ἡλίῳ δὲ μάλιστα καθωσιωμένων·

ἀπέχονται δὲ σαρκοφαγίας πάσης,

καὶ ὑπαίθριοι τὸν ἀεὶ χρόνον

βιοτεύουσι καὶ ἀλήθειαν τιμῶσι,

χρῶνται δὲ ἐσθῆτι λινῇ

τῇ ἐκ πετρῶν· λίθων γὰρ μηρύματα

μαλακὰ καὶ δερματώδη συνυφαίνουσιν,

ἐξ ὧν ὑφάσματα γίγνεται μήτε πυρὶ

καιόμενα μήτε ὕδατι καθαιρόμενα,

ἀλλ ̓ ἐπειδὰν ῥύπου καὶ κηλῖδος ἐμπλησθῇ

χρωμένων, ἐμβληθέντα εἰς φλόγα

λευκὰ καὶ διαφανῆ γίγνεται ‘.

Note: Hierocles, the famous Stoic philosopher, must be distinguished from Hierocles, who wrote about Brahmins in Philostores without doubt, as his contributions to philosophy and the understanding of ethics have been profound and influential. His works, which are largely lost but referenced extensively by later scholars, provide a comprehensive view of Stoic thought. Photius, for example, gives extracts from his writings in cod. 214. 251. 39. 242, demonstrating how Hierocles’ ideas continued to resonate through the ages. Furthermore, Stobaeus includes selections in his compilation known as the Florilegio, which has preserved fragments of Hierocles’ insights on virtue and the nature of the good life. Additionally, Gellius mentions him in his Noctes Atticae, specifically in 9, 5, 8, highlighting Hierocles as a significant figure among the Stoics, whose teachings encouraged individuals to live in harmony with nature and cultivate personal wisdom, thus leaving a lasting legacy that influenced both ancient and modern philosophy.