Abstract

A comparison between the concepts of Plotinus and Gregory of Nyssa shows important congruences. Not only general concepts as the concept of the beautiful, the goodness of God, the impact of love for attracting the soul in higher realms or the importance of the free decision of the will, but even the infinite character of the ascent of the soul towards God can be named. Beside of these similarities even important differences must be stated, namely the role of Christ and the sacramental life of the church. The most important point, however, seems to be the different concept of mystical ascent: while for Plotinus there can be a true union during the ekstasis, Gregory denies exactly that stressing the infinite character of each ascent.