Meaning: The quote you've provided is a thought-provoking statement by James Hillman, a prominent psychologist known for his work in archetypal psychology. The quote references Plotinus, a philosopher who lived in the 3rd century AD and is considered one of the most influential figures in the development of Neoplatonism, a philosophical system that sought to reconcile the teachings of Plato with other philosophical and religious traditions.

In this quote, Hillman is drawing on the ideas of Plotinus to explore the concept of predestination and the notion that the soul has a role in shaping its own circumstances. Let's break down the quote and its implications.

Hillman begins by invoking the ideas of Plotinus, who believed in the existence of a transcendent reality beyond the material world. According to Plotinus, the soul is eternal and comes from this higher realm, but it descends into the material world and becomes embodied in a physical form. This descent into corporeal existence is not arbitrary; rather, the soul "elected" or chose the body, the parents, the place, and the circumstances that would best suit its needs and facilitate its growth.

The notion that the soul "elected" these elements implies a degree of agency and intentionality on the part of the soul. It suggests that the soul is not a passive recipient of its circumstances but actively participates in shaping its own destiny. This aligns with the broader Neoplatonic idea that the soul is on a journey of self-realization and that its experiences in the material world are purposeful and meaningful.

The reference to "the myth" in the quote alludes to the idea that these choices are not random but are guided by a deeper, often unconscious, intelligence within the soul. This mythic dimension suggests that the soul's choices are not purely rational or logical but are influenced by a deeper sense of necessity or destiny.

Hillman's use of this quote reflects his interest in exploring the psychological implications of ancient philosophical and mythic ideas. He draws on the concept of soul-making, the idea that the soul undergoes a process of growth and development through its experiences in the material world. By referencing Plotinus, Hillman invites us to consider the profound implications of the choices made by the soul before its embodiment and the ways in which these choices shape our lives and experiences.

From a psychological perspective, this quote raises questions about the nature of personal agency, the interplay between fate and free will, and the deeper psychological forces that influence our choices and experiences. It invites us to reflect on the idea that our lives are not simply the product of random chance or external factors but are shaped by a deeper, often unconscious, dimension of the self.

In summary, James Hillman's quote referencing Plotinus invites us to contemplate the idea that the soul plays an active role in shaping its own circumstances and experiences. It suggests that our lives are not merely the result of chance or external forces but are influenced by a deeper, mythic dimension within the soul. This quote encourages us to consider the profound implications of these ideas for our understanding of personal agency, destiny, and the psychological dynamics of human experience.