[C] The notions of matter and of space are inseparable. We
derive the notion of space from matter and form. But we have no
adequate conception either of matter or space. Matter in its
ultimate resolution is as unintelligible as what men call mind,
spirit, or by whatever other name they may express the power
which makes itself known by acts. Anaxagoras laid down the
distinction between intelligence [Greek: nous] and matter, and
he said that intelligence impressed motion on matter, and so
separated the elements of matter and gave them order; but he
probably only assumed a beginning, as Simplicius says, as a
foundation of his philosophical teaching. Empedocles said, "The
universe always existed." He had no idea of what is called
creation. Ocellus Lucanus (i, § 2) maintained that the Universe
([Greek: to pan]) was imperishable and uncreated. Consequently
it is eternal. He admitted the existence of God; but his
theology would require some discussion. On the contrary, the
Brachmans, according to Strabo (p. 713, ed. Cas.), taught that
the universe was created and perishable; and the creator and
administrator of it pervades the whole. The author of the book
of Solomon's Wisdom says (xi. 17): "Thy Almighty hand made the
world of matter without form," which may mean that matter
existed already.

The common Greek word which we translate "matter" is [Greek:
hylê]. It is the stuff that things are made of.

Matter consists of elemental parts ([Greek: stoicheia]) of which all
material objects are made. But nothing is permanent in form. The nature
of the universe, according to Antoninus' expression (iv. 36), "loves