Genuine philosophical thought arose in many cultures contemporaneously. Karl Jaspers called 7th-3rd century BCE period Axial Age. Christianity ended Hellenistic philosophy in Western philosophy. Islam ended Old Iranian philosophy in Middle East
Al-Kindi (800-870 CE) was first self-identified philosopher in Arabic tradition. He worked with Greek translators, including Aristotle and Neoplatonists. His most famous work, On First Philosophy, argues against world's eternity. Wrote extensively on psychology, cosmology, mathematics, and astrology
Ancient philosophy encompasses various intellectual traditions before Roman Empire. Generally deeply rooted in religious traditions. Has comprehensive perspective including myth, ethics, and nature theories. Differs from modern philosophy's narrower methodologies