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.
Thomas AquinasRead
Man cannot live without joy; therefore when he is deprived of true spiritual joys it is necessary that he become addicted to carnal pleasures.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Joy is essential for life, and without true spiritual joy, people may turn to physical pleasures as a substitute.
This quote by Thomas Aquinas emphasizes the importance of joy in human existence. It suggests that when individuals are deprived of authentic spiritual happiness, they might seek out carnal pleasures to fill that void. Aquinas highlights a fundamental aspect of human nature: the intrinsic need for joy, which can manifest in both spiritual and physical forms. The statement provokes contemplation about the quality of joy we pursue and the potential consequences of turning to superficial pleasures in the absence of deeper fulfillment.
Themes
JoySpiritualPleasureHappinessHuman Nature
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the importance of joy in life, this quote can serve as an insightful point.
More from Thomas Aquinas
All quotes →Law is nothing other than a certain ordinance of reason for the common good, promulgated by the person who has the care of the community.
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Now this relaxation of the mind from work consists on playful words or deeds. Therefore it becomes a wise and virtuous man to have recourse to such things at times.
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A song is the exultation of the mind dwelling on eternal things, bursting forth in the voice.
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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.
Thomas AquinasRead
To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible.
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