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
Peace is the work of justice indirectly, in so far as justice removes the obstacles to peace; but it is the work of charity (love) directly, since charity, according to its very notion, causes peace.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Peace is achieved through justice and love, as justice eliminates barriers to peace while love fosters it.
In this quote, Thomas Aquinas highlights the essential roles of justice and charity in attaining peace. He argues that while justice is crucial in removing the impediments that hinder peace, it is ultimately charity or love that directly brings about peace, underscoring the profound idea that genuine peace is rooted in compassion and selflessness toward others.
Themes
PeaceJusticeCharityLoveObstacles
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is perfect for a speech about community service and the importance of helping others.
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.
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To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible.
Thomas AquinasRead
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