Plotinus (ca.

204/5–270 CE), thought to be a Hellenized Egyptian, is a major philosopher of the ancient world.

In his system of theory there are the three principles: the One, the Intellect, and the Soul.

His teacher is Ammonius Saccas and he is of the Platonic tradition.

Much of the biographical information about Plotinus comes from Porphyry's preface to his edition of Plotinus' Enneads.

His metaphysical writings have inspired centuries of Pagan, Christian, Jewish, Islamic and Gnostic metaphysicians and mystics.