Commentary on the First Alcibiades of Plato (Cambridge, University Library, MS Kk.5.27)

from them the priestly or 'sacred' arts. Therefore, in the Gorgias, he says, "No, by the dog, the god of the Egyptians." For what statues represent to the Greeks, animals represent to the Egyptians, being symbols of each of the gods to whom they are consecrated. Wishing also to meet with the Magi, but being unable to go to them because at that time there was war in Persia, he arrived in Phoenicia, and having met with Magi there, he received the magical arts. Therefore, also in the Timaeus, he appears to be experienced in divination, speaking of signs of the liver and entrails, and such things. But these things had to be said before the reasons for his arrivals in Sicily. Having arrived in Athens, he established a school in the Academy. This is a portion of the gymnasium, having set apart a sacred precinct for the Muses. And Timon the misanthrope stayed there with Plato alone. He attracted a great many people to learning, both men and women, who prepared themselves to listen to him in the manner of men. And he demonstrated his own philosophy to be superior to any toil. For even