Friday, August 25, 2006

Q39 A8: Whether the essential attributes are appropriated to the persons in a fitting manner by the holy doctors?

Yes. Our intellect, which is led to the knowledge of God from creatures, must consider God according to the mode derived from creatures.

In considering any creature four points present themselves to us in due order.

Firstly, the thing itself taken absolutely is considered as a being.

Secondly, it is considered as one.

Thirdly, its intrinsic power of operation and causality is considered.

The fourth point of consideration embraces its relation to its effects.

Hence this fourfold consideration comes to our mind in reference to God.