On the Mysteries

why therefore is this honor attributed [to them]? For it is not to the impassible and pure [ones], from passible and impure [things], or of such a certain cause, but they deem worthy those of men who have come into pains and need [it], pure and in virtue to whom it results. But not through which they join them to the gods in prayers to the priests. It is clear that the divine friendship, pouring forth the lives of the good, provides a communion of the unfailing connection, not as the name. Just as therefore the light itself also shines, [they] incline the [light] of the gods to men. But these things are necessary to exist as it is proposed to them [as] the gift of the minds of men, being prepared for it toward sharing in the gods; and these are led up also toward the god, and through the infinite [sea] they are adjusted. Whence indeed the sacred names of the gods, according to allegory with us, being led up toward the god, are able to join them.

concerning divine division.

And indeed also the deviation of madness itself, and it is clear from the established [states] of the gods. It itself therefore is not as it seems to some, a certain evil and lawless [thing]; for seeing them deceived, [they see] a turning away. Not themselves falling from themselves, as in midday light shining down, we brought darkness upon ourselves. And we deprived ourselves of the good gift of the gods. Therefore the expiation is able [to provide] the turning back toward the superior participation; and to lead the divine care, which has been withdrawn from us, into communion, and will bind together moderately those being shared to those who share, proceeding alongside [one another]. So much therefore is it removed from performing its own prayers through passion. So that we also [have] sensation of the pain [and] of the turbulent turning away from the gods. But from prayer, because evil is present in those who are [caught] in it, as uneducated and... so that no opinion or passion happens concerning us; but purely [of the] gods [as] untaught or by such [a means].