The Lifelong Goal Of Saint Thomas Aquinas - 1692 Words

Ryan Comolli Study Of St. Thomas Aquinas Research Paper 11/23/2014 The lifelong goal of Saint Thomas Aquinas was to clearly elaborate the independence of philosophy and theology, but at the same time show their symbiotic relationship with each other. Throughout his life Aquinas was known as a theologian but many of his works carry strong philosophical undertones as well. The beauty of theology is it can enlighten us through its leap of faith. Philosophy was required to precede theology. The truths laid down from philosophy are concrete and coherent. These philosophical truths are the shoes in which theology can walk. Without philosophy there is no theology. Examples of this can be seen everywhere. Philosophical concepts like†¦show more content†¦Their importance is paramount because these truths that we believe can in turn be used to create something greater. As St. Thomas progresses through his works he builds on philosophical truths in order to allow us to reach a greater higher knowledge. In his book the Summa Theologica Thomas s ays, â€Å"We must bear in mind that there are two kinds of sciences. There are some which proceed from a principle known by the natural light of intelligence, such as arithmetic and geometry and the like. Others proceed from principles known by the light of a higher form of knowledge: Thus the science of perspective proceeds from principles established by geometry, and music from principles established by arithmetic. So it is that sacred doctrine is a science because it proceeds from principles established by the light of a higher form of knowledge, namely that of God and the blessed† (I, q. 1, a. 2). Aquinas is establishing the basis for all of theology to be built upon. As he describes to us, there is always an action and reaction when it comes to human understanding. In order for someone to believe, there needs to be a definitive and concrete basis for which this knowledge is built. In the case of theology, we require the basics set forth by philosophy to establish th e existence of God. This is and always will be the quintessential step in accepting the divine wisdom which god reveals to us. Belief in the Catholic Church and God