INTRO: St. Thomas Aquinas is one of the most significant figures in Western philosophy and theology. His intellectual contributions have had a profound impact on Christian thought and Western philosophy as a whole. Here are ten essential facts that highlight his life, work, and enduring legacy.
1. St. Thomas Aquinas Was Born in 1225 in Italy’s Aquino
St. Thomas Aquinas was born around 1225 in the small town of Aquino, located in the Lazio region of Italy. This area was known for its scenic beauty and was influenced by both Roman and medieval cultures. Aquinas belonged to a noble family; his father was the Count of Aquino, which positioned him within the aristocracy of the time. His upper-class upbringing provided him with access to education, and he was exposed to various intellectual traditions from an early age, ultimately laying the groundwork for his future as a scholar and theologian.
2. He Became a Dominican Friar Against Family Wishes
Despite his family’s noble status and expectations for him to pursue a career in politics or law, Aquinas made a bold decision to join the Dominican Order around 1244. His family opposed this choice, perceiving the Dominicans as an austere and less prestigious group. They even attempted to coerce him back into a more conventional lifestyle, resorting to imprisonment for a period. Nevertheless, Aquinas remained steadfast in his dedication to the religious life and intellectual pursuits, which would lead him to become one of the most revered theologians in history.
3. Aquinas Authored the Influential "Summa Theologica"
One of Aquinas’s most significant contributions to philosophy and theology is his magnum opus, the "Summa Theologica," written between 1265 and 1274. This extensive work addresses a wide range of theological questions and lays out a comprehensive system of thought. The "Summa" is divided into three main parts: God, humanity, and Christ, each section exploring questions about the nature of existence, morality, and divine law. Aquinas’s methodical approach, which includes objections and counterarguments, provides a framework that has influenced countless scholars and theologians throughout the ages.
4. He Integrated Aristotelian Philosophy with Christian Doctrine
Aquinas’s work is notable for its synthesis of Aristotelian philosophy with Christian doctrine. He reintroduced Aristotle’s ideas to the medieval Christian world, arguing that reason and faith are not mutually exclusive but can complement one another. By integrating Aristotle’s empirical approach to knowledge with Christian theology, Aquinas provided a robust intellectual foundation for understanding God, morality, and human nature. This synthesis not only shaped the intellectual landscape of the Middle Ages but also paved the way for the Renaissance and modern philosophy.
5. St. Thomas Aquinas Was Canonized in 1323 by the Pope
Aquinas’s profound influence on the Church and Christian thought did not go unrecognized. He was canonized as a saint by Pope John XXII in 1323, only fifty years after his death. This canonization was a testament to the impact of his works and teachings within the Church. His feast day is celebrated on January 28, and he has been acknowledged throughout history as a major figure in Catholic theology, with his ideas continuing to resonate in contemporary discussions about faith and reason.
6. He Is Recognized as a Doctor of the Church Since 1567
In addition to being canonized, St. Thomas Aquinas was declared a Doctor of the Church in 1567 by Pope Pius V. This designation honors saints whose writings and teachings have made significant contributions to theology. Aquinas is often referred to as the "Angelical Doctor" due to his clarity of expression and profound insights into complex theological issues. His works remain foundational in Catholic education, and he is frequently referenced in Church teachings, liturgy, and the Catechism.
7. His Works Shaped the Catholic Church’s Teaching Approach
The methodologies and structures found in Aquinas’s writings have significantly influenced the Catholic Church’s teaching approach. His logical, systematic exploration of theological concepts served as a model for future theologians and scholars. The use of scholasticism, characterized by dialectical reasoning and rigorous analysis, became the hallmark of Catholic education. Aquinas’s work is deeply embedded in various Catholic doctrines, and his teachings are still integral to the Church’s understanding of ethics, morality, and natural law.
8. Aquinas Proposed the Five Ways to Prove God’s Existence
Among his many philosophical contributions, Aquinas is well-known for his "Five Ways," which are five arguments designed to demonstrate the existence of God. These arguments include the argument from motion, causation, necessity, perfection, and teleology. Each argument attempts to use observable phenomena and logical reasoning to point to the existence of a divine being. Aquinas’s "Five Ways" have been foundational in the philosophy of religion, influencing countless debates and discussions about the nature of God and the relationship between faith and reason.
9. He Had a Unique View on Faith and Reason Coexisting
Aquinas held a distinctive view regarding the relationship between faith and reason, positing that both are essential to understanding truth. He believed that reason could lead one to understand certain truths about the natural world and the existence of God, while faith is necessary for understanding divine mysteries that go beyond human comprehension. This perspective provided a framework for dialogue between faith and science, allowing for a harmonious coexistence that would influence theological discussions for centuries to come.
10. St. Thomas Aquinas Died in 1274 While Traveling to Lyon
St. Thomas Aquinas passed away on March 7, 1274, while traveling to the Council of Lyon. His health had been declining, and he succumbed to illness before reaching his destination. His death marked the end of a remarkable life dedicated to scholarship and the pursuit of truth. Following his death, Aquinas was mourned by many, and his ideas continued to be studied and revered. His legacy endures, and he is remembered not only as a theologian but also as a philosopher whose works continue to inspire and inform contemporary thought.
OUTRO: St. Thomas Aquinas’s life and works have left an indelible mark on the intellectual and spiritual landscape of the Western world. His ability to synthesize faith and reason, alongside his profound insights into theology and philosophy, has ensured that his teachings remain relevant even centuries after his death. Through these ten facts, we gain a deeper understanding of Aquinas’s legacy and the enduring significance of his contributions to both the Church and the broader philosophical discourse.