Assessment of the Concept of Music in the Foundation of the Universe

Abstract

Pythagoras through his teachings attempts to expose his philosophy of the soul and music in connection to the universe. This paper, therefore, draws our attention to that connection and the relationship between the soul, music, divinity, humanity and the universe. It examines how music regulates and elevates the soul as well as foster harmony amongst listeners in the universe. It further reveals the value of music to the soul and the universe from even the Stone Age to the period we are in. It showcases numerous views and ideas of theorists on the concept of the soul, explaining how the souls of both man and animals’ function in life and in death. It emphasizes how man is positioned at the centre of the teachings of both music and the soul. It employs the method of textual analysis of both primary and secondary texts. Also, it utilizes hermeneutics to explore and interpret the key notes in Pythagoras’ philosophy of the soul, and music and that of the general authors. It can serve as a useful guide for further research on music, and the soul and the concept of music as the soul food. It concludes that Pythagoras’ views on these concepts are not the final interpretation or investigation but a foundation for future researchers.

Keywords: Music, Universe, Teaching, Age, Soul Food, Philosophy