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The magnitude of the punishment matches the magnitude of the sin. Now a sin that is against God is infinite; the higher the person against whom it is committed, the graver the sin-it is more criminal to strike a head of state than a private citizen-and God is of infinite greatness. Therefore an infinite punishment is deserved for a sin committed against Him.
Thomas Aquinas
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the seriousness of sins against God, stating that greater wrongs lead to greater punishments.

Thomas Aquinas argues that the severity of a sin is proportional to the greatness of the being it is committed against. Since God is of infinite greatness, any sin against Him warrants infinite punishment, just as striking a ruler is seen as more grievous than harming an ordinary person due to the higher authority and significance of the ruler.

Themes

SinPunishmentGodInfiniteAquinusPhilosophy

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about justice and morality, one might quote this to highlight the seriousness of moral transgressions.

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We are like children, who stand in need of masters to enlighten us and direct us; God has provided for this, by appointing his angels to be our teachers and guides.
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To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible.
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