This episode provides an overview of the ancient Greek philosophy of Epicureanism, including its views on ethics, pleasure, friendship, death, and the gods. We explore how Epicurus sought freedom from disturbance and fear through limiting desires, cultivating virtues, and surrounding oneself with friends. We'll also highlight Epicurus' atomic theory of the universe and contrast his views with Christian beliefs about purpose, providence, and the afterlife.

Episode Overview

• Origin of Epicureanism and its founder, Epicurus, in 4th century BC Athens
• Central goals: freedom from fear (ataraxia), absence of pain (aponia)
• Path to happiness through limiting desires, seeking simple pleasures
• Importance of friendship, prudent living, gratitude
• Withdrawal from politics and public affairs
• Atomistic theory of matter and metaphysical worldview
• Views on the gods and lack of an afterlife
• Life well lived by enjoying earthly delights in the present

Discussion Questions

• How can Christians appreciate Epicurean insights while rejecting its worldview?
• What critique does Epicureanism offer regarding superstitions and irrational fears?
• How does the hope we have in Christ differ from the Epicurean view of death?
• In what ways can an individualistic pursuit of pleasure prove spiritually empty?
• How can Christians balance earthly joys and sufferings in light of eternity?

For other questions and comments, feel free to reach out to Jared at thechurchhistoryproject@gmail.com. For more content, visit the podcast ⁠website ⁠or wherever you find your podcasts.

To join The Church History Project Facebook group to engage in more discussion about released episodes and other fascinating nuggets of church history, you can visit the page ⁠here⁠.