Abstract

I Philosophers and Prophets The tradition of the Falasifa tends to refute Plato's ideal of the “philosopher-king”, in which the philosopher is distinguished as the highest human type. In contrast to the philosopher, whose knowledge is incomplete and indirect, the prophet, through revelation, attains profound knowledge and truth. According to the Falasifa version of Platonic politics, the prophet, who represents the highest form of human wisdom conditioned by divine providence, is a founder of political community and a lawgiver.