Magoi Aristoi

The Magoi Aristoi or "Best wizards" are wise philosopher-teachers who have been chosen above others for special veneration. This is because of their special usefulness to us in helping us develop our own wisdom.

Pentamagi

Zartians have a list of five Magoi Aristoi who are considered the founding teachers of our philosophy. These are called the Pentamagi.

The Pentamagi (Five Magi) are Zartus (Zoroaster), Gotama (Buddha), Plato, Aristotle and Nietzsche.



Zoroaster, Plato, Aristotle, Gotama, Nietzsche.

Wisdom Traditions

Zartian Agathists may study one or more of multiple wisdom traditions which in general will be associated with at least one of the tetramagi.

For instance Buddhism and Stoicism (considered a Greek counterpart to Buddhism) - associated with Gotama.

Ancient Gnosticism associated with both Zoroaster and Plato, and also the later Neoplatonism and Neoplatonic Sufism.

Thomism and Catholic Social Teaching - associated with Aristotle.

The writings of Marcus Aurelius can be a good way in to Stoicism. The writings of Inayat Khan are recommended for students of Neoplatonic Sufism. The modern Cathar movement around John Bogomil is also recommended.

Modern Magi

Zartian Agathists may also study modern philosophers of renown. There is no canonical list but in addition to Nietzsche on the more political side these might include names like Proudhon, Karl Marx, Gramsci and Erich Fromm for example.