Apollonius of Tyana: 'I delight to lodge in such temples as are not regularly kept closed. None of the gods reject me; they make me partner of their roof.'

I delight to lodge in such temples as are not regularly kept closed. None of the gods reject me; they make me partner of their roof.

Apollonius of Tyana once stated, "I delight to lodge in such temples as are not regularly kept closed. None of the gods reject me; they make me the partner of their roof." This quote, on the surface, conveys Apollonius' joy in finding solace and acceptance in temples that are not commonly open to the public. It speaks to the idea that he feels a unique connection with the gods, who invite him into their sacred spaces.At first glance, Apollonius' quote showcases his affinity for unorthodox temple experiences. Rather than seeking refuge in widely accessible temples, he seeks out those that are not regularly open to the public. This implies that he is drawn to the mystical, the hidden, and the unconventional. It suggests that he finds a deeper connection with the divine when the space is not encumbered by the constant influx of visitors.Apollonius also expresses a profound sense of belonging in these temples, as he claims that none of the gods reject him. This notion implies that he is not only tolerated within their sacred spaces but is welcomed as a partner and participant in their divine presence. It suggests that Apollonius' spiritual journey involves a level of intimacy and familiarity with the gods that transcends traditional worship practices.However, beyond the literal meaning of this quote lie deeper philosophical implications. It opens up the discussion about the nature of divine presence and our relationship with it. Apollonius' words challenge the notion that gods and religious experiences are confined to specific places or institutions. He suggests that the divine can be encountered in unexpected and unconventional spaces, in temples that are not regularly open or widely recognized.This concept provokes us to question the boundaries we place on spirituality and the divine. Are sacred spaces limited to grand structures or recognized religious institutions? Or can the divine be found in the simplicity of nature, in moments of personal reflection, or even within ourselves? Apollonius' quote invites us to imagine a world where religious experiences are not confined to traditional temples but instead can take place anywhere, even in the seemingly ordinary aspects of life.By presenting this unexpected philosophical concept, Apollonius' quote challenges our assumptions and expands our understanding of the sacred. It encourages us to explore the infinite possibilities for encountering the divine and to embrace the idea that spirituality is not bound by physical structures or religious norms. It suggests that the gods are not limited to specific locations but are omnipresent, welcoming us into their divine presence regardless of the setting.In conclusion, Apollonius of Tyana's quote, "I delight to lodge in such temples as are not regularly kept closed. None of the gods reject me; they make me the partner of their roof," goes beyond its literal meaning and offers a thought-provoking exploration of our connection with the divine. It highlights the joy he finds in unorthodox temple experiences and challenges traditional notions of sacred spaces. Ultimately, it urges us to reconsider our understanding of the divine and embrace the idea that the gods invite us to partner with them, irrespective of the setting in which we encounter them.