Skip to content

Wherefore if forgers of money and other evil-doers are…

“Wherefore if forgers of money and other evil-doers are forthwith condemned to death by the secular authority, much more reason is there for heretics, as soon as they are convicted of heresy, to be not only excommunicated but even put to death.” quote by St Thomas Aquinas
Download Open image
“Wherefore if forgers of money and other evil-doers are forthwith condemned to death by the secular authority, much more reason is there for heretics, as soon as they are convicted of heresy, to be not only excommunicated but even put to death.”

St Thomas Aquinas

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Heretics may face severe penalties, including death, under secular law, reflecting harsh punitive attitudes.

In simple terms: Heretics could be executed by state law.

Key Takeaway

Consider humane justice and due process.

Themes

theology law heretical punishment secular authority

Mood

solemn reflective

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • courts
  • parliaments
  • religious councils
  • historical law codes

Key Concepts

justice reform human rights religious tolerance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What ethical frameworks limit state power?
  • How do we protect religious freedom?
A Different Perspective

Modern societies reject capital punishment for belief crimes.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by St Thomas Aquinas

Explore all 4 St Thomas Aquinas quotes

More Death quotes

Browse all 39,127 Death quotes