Tetramagi v. Pentamagi

Previously we have suggested two competing lists of 'Best Wizards' that we should learn from. The Tetramagi - who comprise four giants from the ancient past who are likely to be uncontroversial choices. The Pentamagi however include the more modern philosopher Nietzsche who some may consider a more controversial pick. At the current time we have decided that Nietzsche's teaching are so much a crucial part of Zartianism that we will in future just promote the Pentamagi list which includes him. However we leave this earlier writing below for people's interest. March 4025 EHE

Aristomagi

The Aristomagi or "Outstanding 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.

Tetramagi

The Tetramagi (Four Magi) are four ancient wise men whose intellectual work is considered the most worthy of attention. These are Zoroaster (Zartus), Gotama (Buddha), Plato and Aristotle.

Pentamagi

The Pentamagi (Five Magi) are the same as the Tetramagi with the addition of Nietzsche as a fifth magus. In other words they are Zoroaster (Zartus), Gotama (Buddha), Plato, Aristotle and Nietzsche.

Tetramagism versus Pentamagism

Tetramagists limit their veneration to the Tetramagi - all ancient teachers whose work has stood the test of time for its ability to spark thinking about the nature of the Good and how to achieve it. It can be argued that the work of the Tetramagi form the foundation of much of the philosophy of traditional orthodoxy both in the Christian West and the Islamic civilization centred in Iran and Asia Minor. So Tetramagism is particularly suited to those attached to such a Christian or Moslem religious identity.

Pentamagists believe that the ancient teachings of the Tetramagi are incomplete and that Nietzsche performs a valuable task in challenging the conventional thinking of the past with the aim of ultimately producing something stronger.