LINGUO-PHILOSOPHICAL SYMBOLISM IN HRYHORII SKOVORODA’S PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY: AN EXISTENTIAL DIMENSION

Abstract

The article provides a comprehensive linguo-philosophical analysis of the symbolic and categorical dimension of the practical philosophy of Hryhorii Skovoroda, focusing on its existential potential. The author reconstructs the semantic architecture of the key concepts of Skovoroda’s worldview and demonstrates that symbolism in his philosophy functions not only as a form of expression, but also as a cognitive and practical tool of human self-realization.
It is established that the semantic core of Skovoroda’s philosophy is formed by the axiological triad “dignity–freedom–happiness,” which determines the logic of personal spiritual development and the path toward harmony with the divine order. This triad is shown to operate as a dynamic system of value orientations, the realization of which is ensured through self-knowledge, congenial work, and spiritual independence.
The study reveals that the symbolic triad “sun–heart–serpent” functions as a cognitive model for interpreting human existence, where the “sun” represents divine truth, the “heart” signifies the inner spiritual essence of the individual, and the “serpent” embodies practical wisdom and self-preservation. It is argued that through this symbolic system Skovoroda constructs a holistic concept of the interaction between the spiritual and the material.
It is further demonstrated that Skovoroda’s epistemological method is based on a dialectical logic (thesis–antithesis–synthesis), implemented through symbolic thinking, which enables the integration of empirical and transcendental experience. This cognitive model allows for the transition from fragmented perception of reality to its holistic comprehension.
The article concludes that Skovoroda’s practical philosophy represents not merely a theoretical system, but a normative model of human existence oriented toward achieving inner freedom and happiness. The relevance of his ideas in the contemporary Ukrainian context is substantiated, particularly as a worldview resource of social resilience in conditions of war, where the archetypes of dignity, freedom, and spiritual endurance acquire mobilizing significance.