The Thomistic Institute

Divine Simplicity and the Complexity of Creation | Fr. Thomas Joseph White, O.P.

Sep 25, 2022
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INSIGHT

Why God Is Metaphysically Simple

  • Aquinas rejects metaphysical composition in God: God is not a material form receiving being from others.
  • Divine simplicity means God's attributes (goodness, wisdom, power) are identical with his single, non-composite essence.
ANECDOTE

Kangaroos And Oak Trees As Metaphysical Examples

  • Fr. White illustrates substantial form with everyday examples like kangaroos and oak trees to show non-quantitative composition.
  • He contrasts material sciences' reach with metaphysics, arguing God cannot be found by observational methods.
INSIGHT

Essence Versus Existence Explained

  • Aquinas distinguishes essence (what a thing is) from existence (that a thing is) as two really distinct principles in creatures.
  • In creatures existence is received and individuates an essence, while in God essence is identical with existence.
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