Neoplatonism was similar to Buddhism, though with important differences. Both believe in the fundamental interconnectedness of all things, though the Buddhist believes all is one and the Neoplatonist connects them through the hierarchy of being. Both have as a goal a mystical experience of fundamental reality achieved through contemplation or meditation. Both see ultimate reality as impersonal. Both permit the worship of many gods as a lower-order component of their religious belief. Both are essentially philosophies that have been converted into religions.
