Whereas the Greeks emphasized thought and understanding, Judaism focuses on will and action, the dynamic of doing. All of these points are true, but each one is only a small part of a larger picture. In general, it is difficult to talk of Greek culture because it was so diverse, but two characteristics stand out. The Greeks believed that existence in its totality is comprehensible and conquerable. The universe contains no mystery, reflects no greater power.
Man can master all creation.
But the Greek conception of mastery meant domination through conceptualization and categorization, fitting the universe into the confines of cognition. Their purpose was understanding purely for the sake of understanding. The Greeks asserted that the task of mastering the world was achievable. This meant that there was nothing in the universe beyond comprehension. The Greeks were forced to believe that the cosmos embodied order and beauty, because order allows understanding.