"On the Pythagorean way of life" is the first of the 10 books written by Iamblichus about Pythagoreanism. Iamblichus proposes a new philosophy program, supported by the principles and way of life of the Pythagoreans, as presented through the life and teachings of Pythagoras and his disciples. The significance of the text is great, as while it is written in a time with a strong philosophical and religious character - that of late antiquity (4th century AD) - it refers to Pythagoras and ancient Pythagoreanism (6th century BC). Pre-Socratic thought, Platonic and Aristotelian philosophy, the Hellenistic period, Christian teaching, and Neoplatonism are the transition that connects the era of Pythagoras with the era of teaching and writing of Iamblichus. In addition to biographical information, the significance of numbers, symbols, and music, the four Pythagorean principles in Crotona, his educational program and his political stance, wisdom, justice, temperance, courage, and friendship are the most important issues that make up the work of Iamblichus.

The Introduction, titled "Pythagoras, the Pythagoreans, and the Pythagorean way of Iamblichus," consists of six parts. The first three refer to the life of Pythagoras, his School - the famous omakoeion - and the Pythagorean way of theory and practice, while the rest refer to the life and Pythagorean way of Iamblichus, his relationship with Neoplatonism and Christianity, his work "On the Pythagorean Sect," as well as his other works.

The translation follows the ancient text of Teubner editions, while the notes are considered absolutely necessary for the correct understanding of the text. The bibliography only concerns ancient sources, books, and articles used for the needs of this edition.
This book is the eighteenth in the series "Ancient Writers" by Zetros editions and is added to the effort for a substantial understanding of thought and the philosophical way of life. The path passes through both Pythagorean philosophy and the philosophy of late antiquity. The edition is introduced by philosophy professor, Mrs. Teresa Pentzopoulou-Valala.