The Word on Fire Show - Catholic Faith and Culture
WOF 485: “Ipsum Esse” & Catholic Social Teaching (Part 1)
Apr 14, 2025
In a compelling lecture at Charles University, Bishop Barron delves into St. Thomas Aquinas' concept of God as 'ipsum esse.' He connects this profound idea to key themes in Catholic social teaching. The discussion uncovers Aquinas' insights on creation, emphasizing God's essence and existence. It also examines how morality and social order intertwine in Thomistic thought, asserting that true freedom is rooted in the common good. This exploration invites listeners to reflect on the moral dimensions of community and law.
22:21
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Quick takeaways
- Aquinas's concept of God as ipsum esse illustrates the essential unity of existence and essence, profoundly shaping our understanding of creation's reliance on the divine.
- The lecture emphasizes that communities should be formed not solely for practical purposes, but to pursue common ethical goals like justice and the worship of God.
Deep dives
The Essence of God as Ipsum Esse
Aquinas's concept of God as ipsum esse illustrates the relationship between essence and existence, emphasizing that God's existence is foundational and distinct from created beings. He posits that in God, essence and existence coincide, meaning God's nature cannot be defined categorically, highlighting its ineffability. Aquinas's work delineates that while creatures have a real distinction between essence and existence, they rely on God for their being, thereby positioning God as the sustaining cause of all creation. This relationship ensures that understanding God is critical for comprehending our own existence and societal behaviors.
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