In a basic understanding of the assigned texts, we see a contrast about what the matter in our lives derives from. We see an agreement on the pursuit of divine knowledge. In order to achieve, or at the very least understand the basis of this understanding is a differing opinion between the two authors. One focuses on our mentality, something learned, a message that is told and taught. The other focuses on our physical realm, and understanding of what we see around us. The third focuses on an all powerful being, someone who watches over us and currently obtains the divine knowledge.

Heraclitus believes in the power of LOGOS. LOGOS in extremely broad terms is a message. Its a teaching to help others understand. The word itself incorporates more than that, including the way the message is spoken, and the skill of the speaker, however in this context it is important to look at LOGOS as a message. This thing that can be taught to people, who if they believe what they here will be given understanding, or in the message of God according to Jesus, would be given eternal life. Heraclitus takes it one step further, stating that LOGOS is almost unattainable, being to complex and powerful for the human brain to grasp and understand, and is ultimately left ignored or forgotten.

Cicero believes in a different path to knowledge, and looks to our physical realm for enlightenment. He sees the message hidden in the study of what is around us, rather than the idea of a new message that is hidden to us. This view is very human-focused, almost egocentric. It gives the power to humans, and intelligence, or an understanding of our physical world, represents our closeness to divine. Those who understand our world better are more divine then those who do not.

The third opinion we see is from Cleanthes, stating that their is a god watching over us, and he references Zeus in his poetry. In order to live to fullness you must live to the almighty being watching over you. He states that we are made in God’s image, but that we are not him, therefore made to follow him.

All three of these opinions believe in an understanding that leads to Divine Knowledge. The three differ, however, on how to achieve this idea. In my opinion they create a spectrum, on one end is complete faith in an almighty being. In the middle is the understanding of something divine, and the pursuit of this knowledge. The other end has a pursuit for the understanding of our physical world, and that we are in control of our divine knowledge.