Epopt

/ˈɛp.ɒpt/ noun

Definition

A person initiated into the highest level of the Eleusinian Mysteries in ancient Greece, who experienced the sacred visions.

Etymology

From Greek 'epoptes,' meaning 'one who sees,' from 'epi' (upon) + 'optesthai' (to see). This specifically referred to those at the highest initiation level who witnessed the most secret revelations of the Mysteries.

Kelly Says

Epoptes were witnesses to something so profound that Plato and Aristotle maintained lifelong silence about it—inscriptions warn that 'it is profane to reveal these things'—making ancient Eleusis perhaps history's greatest unsolved mystery!

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