Saint Thomas Aquinas

Easton Press Saint Thomas Aquinas books

Selected Writings - 1985

Saint Thomas Aquinas (biography) - George N Shuster - 1995

The Works of Saint Thomas Aquinas - 1995

Franklin Library Saint Thomas Aquinas books

Summa Theologica - Great Books of the Western World - 2 volumes 1985

 

 

Saint Thomas Aquinas biography

Saint Thomas Aquinas, born around 1225 in Roccasecca, Italy, was a medieval Catholic theologian and philosopher whose influential works had a profound impact on Western thought. He is best known for his comprehensive synthesis of Christian theology and Aristotelian philosophy, a system that became foundational in Catholic theology. Aquinas belonged to a noble family and received his early education at the Benedictine monastery of Monte Cassino. Later, against his family's wishes, he joined the Dominican Order at the age of 19. Despite facing initial opposition from his family, Thomas's intellectual prowess and commitment to his studies led him to become one of the most renowned scholars of his time. Thomas Aquinas studied at the University of Naples and later at the University of Paris, where he encountered the works of Aristotle, which significantly influenced his philosophical and theological thinking. His attempt to reconcile Christian theology with Aristotelian philosophy resulted in his most significant work, Summa Theologica, a comprehensive and systematic exposition of Christian doctrine.

Summa Theologica addresses a wide range of theological and philosophical topics, including the existence of God, ethics, the nature of humanity, and the sacraments. It remains a cornerstone of Western philosophy and theology and has influenced thinkers across various religious traditions.

Apart from his intellectual pursuits, Thomas Aquinas was a prolific writer and produced numerous other works, including commentaries on Aristotle's works, biblical commentaries, and treatises on ethics and metaphysics. His writings demonstrate a commitment to reason and faith, emphasizing the compatibility of philosophy with Christian doctrine. Thomas Aquinas was canonized as a saint by Pope John XXII in 1323, recognizing not only his intellectual contributions but also his holiness and devotion to the Catholic Church. His feast day is celebrated on January 28.

 

What is Saint Thomas Aquinas the patron saint of?

St. Thomas Aquinas is recognized as the patron saint of several areas, including:

Catholic Academics and Students
St. Thomas Aquinas is often regarded as the patron saint of students and scholars. His extensive writings, particularly his theological and philosophical works, have had a profound influence on Catholic theology and education.

Philosophers
Due to his significant contributions to philosophy, particularly within the context of Scholasticism, St. Thomas Aquinas is considered a patron saint of philosophers.

Theologians
St. Thomas Aquinas is also recognized as a patron saint of theologians. His theological writings, such as the Summa Theologica, have had a lasting impact on Catholic theology.

Universities
Many universities and educational institutions that follow the Catholic tradition consider St. Thomas Aquinas as a patron saint.

The philosophy of Thomas Aquinas, often referred to as Thomism, has had a lasting impact on Catholic theology and has influenced thinkers within and outside the Catholic tradition. His emphasis on reason, the harmony between faith and reason, and his systematic approach to theology continue to shape theological discussions and debates in the contemporary world.

 

 

Summa Theologica

Summa Theologica, a monumental work of theological scholarship, stands as one of the crowning achievements of the medieval philosopher-theologian Thomas Aquinas. Aquinas was destined for a life of intellectual pursuit and spiritual devotion. Educated at the University of Naples and the University of Paris, Aquinas quickly distinguished himself as a brilliant thinker and theologian, blending the philosophical traditions of Aristotle with the teachings of Christianity to develop a comprehensive system of thought.

Completed near the end of his life in 1274, the Summa Theologica represents the culmination of Aquinas's lifelong quest to reconcile faith and reason, theology and philosophy. Comprising over 3,000 articles and spanning multiple volumes, this monumental work addresses a wide range of theological topics, including the nature of God, the existence of evil, the principles of morality, and the purpose of human existence. At the heart of the Summa Theologica lies Aquinas's distinctive method of inquiry, known as Scholasticism, which emphasizes the use of reason and logic to explore theological truths. Drawing upon a rich array of sources, including Scripture, church fathers, and classical philosophy, Aquinas meticulously examines each question from multiple perspectives, presenting arguments, objections, and counterarguments in a rigorous and systematic fashion.

One of the most remarkable features of the Summa Theologica is its accessibility. Unlike many theological treatises of the time, which were written primarily for scholars and clergy, Aquinas intended his work to be understood by a wide audience, from theologians to laypeople. As a result, the Summa Theologica is characterized by its clarity, simplicity, and practical wisdom, making it an enduring masterpiece of theological literature.

Despite its unfinished state (Aquinas ceased writing the Summa Theologica shortly before his death), this magisterial work continues to exert a profound influence on theology, philosophy, and intellectual inquiry to this day. Revered for its depth of insight, breadth of knowledge, and unwavering commitment to truth, the Summa Theologica remains a cornerstone of Western intellectual tradition and a testament to the enduring legacy of Thomas Aquinas as one of the greatest thinkers in Christian history.

Thomas Aquinas quotes

"To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible."

"The things that we love tell us what we are."

"Sorrow can be alleviated by good sleep, a bath, and a glass of wine."

"There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship."

"Three things are necessary for the salvation of man: to know what he ought to believe; to know what he ought to desire; and to know what he ought to do."

"The study of truth requires a considerable effort - which is why few are willing to undertake it out of love of knowledge - despite the fact that God has implanted a natural appetite for such knowledge in the minds of men."

"Fear is such a powerful emotion for humans that when we allow it to take us over, it drives compassion right out of our hearts."

"To bear with patience wrongs done to oneself is a mark of perfection, but to bear with patience wrongs done to someone else is a mark of imperfection and even of actual sin."

"Happiness is secured through virtue; it is a good attained by man’s own will."

"The greatest kindness one can render to any man consists in leading him from error to truth."