Thomas Aquinas, a seminal figure in medieval philosophy and theology, had profound insights into both faith and its relationship with reason.
Faith According to Aquinas
Nature of Faith: Aquinas describes faith as a virtue, specifically a theological virtue, which is essential for salvation. In his Summa Theologica, he explains that faith is a belief in things that are not seen. It's a response to divine revelation, trusting in God's word even when it transcends human reason.
Object of Faith: For Aquinas, the object of faith is primarily the truths revealed by God. This includes doctrines of Christianity such as the Trinity, the Incarnation, and others. Faith involves assent to these truths because they are revealed by God, who is the ultimate source of truth.
Faith and Understanding: Aquinas emphasizes that faith is not opposed to reason but rather complements it. While faith deals with truths that are above human reason, it does not contradict reason. Faith accepts divine revelation as truth, even if the rational understanding of these truths may be complex or beyond immediate human comprehension.
The Relationship Between Faith and Reason
Complementary Roles: Aquinas posits that faith and reason are harmonious. Reason can lead us to some truths about God and the natural order, but faith reveals truths that exceed the grasp of reason alone. For instance, natural theology can demonstrate the existence of God, but mysteries like the Trinity or the Incarnation are accepted through faith.
The First Truth: In Aquinas's framework, the “First Truth” refers to God as the ultimate source and standard of all truth. God is the first cause and the ultimate end of all creation. Faith aligns with this First Truth by acknowledging that divine revelation comes from the First Truth itself. Aquinas argues that faith, as a virtue, directs human assent to the First Truth revealed by God, providing a higher understanding that transcends but does not oppose rational inquiry.
Intellectual Ascent: Faith involves an intellectual assent to divine truths, which is rational in its own way. Aquinas believes that while reason may be limited, it can still lead to a recognition of the validity of faith's claims, especially when those claims are seen as consistent with reason and observed reality.
In summary, for Aquinas, faith is a virtue involving belief in divine revelation, and it complements rather than contradicts reason. The First Truth is God, who is the ultimate source and basis for all understanding, both rational and revealed.
