my man!

Philo Judaeus (c. 30 BCE - c. 50 CE) was a prominent leader of the Jewish community in Alexandria, Egypt during the late Second Temple Period. He wrote expansively on the intersection of classical Greek philosophy and historical Judaism.

Philo interprets the stories of Torah as elaborate metaphors and symbols. He does not reject the subjective experience of Ancient Judaism; yet, he repeatedly explains that the Torah cannot be understood as a concrete, objective history. Philo is largely shaped by contemporary Platonism. For example, he explains that ideal Greek forms for reason and wisdom illustrate the deep, mystical truth of God and Judaism.

Philo was the son of a prominent and wealthy family. (Dillon, 139) Scholars also determine that Philo directed an official delegation or embassy to the Roman emperor Claudius c. 40 CE. However, Philo is primarily distinguished by an extensive body of writing. Philo completed numerous systematic philosophical treatises, including comprehensive allegorical interpretations of the Torah from the Septuagint (LXX).

Traditional scholarship maintains that Philo subordinates Judaism to Graeco-Roman ideals. This view contends that Philo's writings are essentially apologetic. However, contemporary scholars largely discredit former assumptions about Hellenistic Judaism. For example, critical scholars contend that Hellenism and Judaism . . . reciprocal influence.

Certainly, Hellenistic Judaism integrates the major principles of ambient Greek culture and society. However, it is difficult to establish the primary intent of Philo's interpretations of Scripture and the independent development of Jewish Law.

Hellenistic Judaism may construct an alternative system of law and interpretation. Judaism, where Greek philosophy and Graeco-Roman culture functions or operates as a constructed framework, method, or system for interpretation.

reconcile? or harmonize?

There is considerable disagreement on the operative purpose and structure of his writings.
What is the function of classical Platonic theory?
What is the role of traditional Jewish law?
Does Philo prioritize Hellenistic culture over Torah and Jewish law?

Where did Philo learn classical Greek philosophy?
Who was the intended audience of the treatises?
What is the extent of Philo’s dependence on Jewish tradition?
[[alexandrian tradition of interpretation?]]

Theology
What does Philo believe?