The idea of Mystagogy as a completely different type of Symbolic System underscores the radical difference between the created and uncreated, and grounds the system in a pedagogy which works by introducing the subject to purification by experience, rather than a set of concepts. Empirical study of mathematics dispels the idea that it contains universal platonic forms, and empirical study of noetic symbols in mystagogy deconstructs them towards apophatic presence, revealing their true purpose: empirical purification.

St. Maximos says, “the mystery of the incarnation of the Logos is the key to all arcane symbolism.”

“That "the expressions about God in the Bible are not intended to convey concepts about God. They act only as means to guide one to the purification and illumination of the heart and finally to glorification by the Pre-Incarnate and Incarnate Lord (Yaweh) of Glory which is to see Him by means of His uncreated glory or rule" and "not by means of ephemeral created symbols and concepts about Him" as is the case in the Augustinian tradition.” - Fr. John Romanides

While Iconography may appear to utilize a set of archetypal conventions that represent Platonic forms, it should not be construed as doing so. Archetypes are not universals, but symbols that skillfully lead their student to purification, which then leads to perception of the uncreated.

“In other words, Beauty is the Logos, the Archetype of the beauty in created beings, whose archetypes or logoi participate in Him as ground of their being, giving them an ontological goodness and permanence, symbolized by geometry in sacred art.”

-- Fr. Silouan Justiniano from Archetype and Symbol, part 3