From the book
Stobaeus, Volume I
John Stobaeus · Diotimos Editions · 2026
Browse this book’s lexicon →Orientation
At a Glance
- The wordAphairesis is taking away.
- In StobaeusThe classification of motion pairs subtraction with addition in quantitative change.
- In this edition“Subtraction” suits quantities and “removal” suits purification.
- A place to beginSubtraction is associated with diminution in quantity.
- English renderings
- subtraction; removal; taking away
Meaning
Aphairesis is taking away. Its object can be a quantity or a condition judged foreign to a being; a technical theory of intellectual abstraction should not be assumed in every occurrence.
Use in the book
The classification of motion pairs subtraction with addition in quantitative change. The account of purification instead names removal of what is foreign as a benefit, alongside restoration of proper essence. Both involve taking away, but one concerns amount and the other the soul’s condition.
Places to read
- I.19.1.5Subtraction is associated with diminution in quantity.
- I.49.65.10Purification removes what is foreign and restores proper essence.
Translation in this edition
“Subtraction” suits quantities and “removal” suits purification. “Abstraction” requires a context that specifically supports that intellectual operation.
Source note
Wachsmuth, volume I, printed pp. 162–163, 455–456. The shared idea is taking away. Neither cited passage establishes a separate theory of intellectual abstraction.