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Anger and the like are attributed to God on account of a…

“Anger and the like are attributed to God on account of a similitude of effect. Thus, because to punish is properly the act of an angry man, God's punishment is metaphorically spoken of as His anger.” quote by Thomas Aquinas
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“Anger and the like are attributed to God on account of a similitude of effect. Thus, because to punish is properly the act of an angry man, God's punishment is metaphorically spoken of as His anger.”

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.

Divine punishment is described using human emotions to help people understand God's justice.

In simple terms: God's anger is a metaphor for divine justice.

Key Takeaway

Recognize metaphorical language in theological concepts.

Themes

theology metaphor justice divine human analogy

Mood

contemplative critical

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • studying theology
  • preaching
  • writing religious texts
  • debating moral responsibility

Key Concepts

philosophy religion ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does human language limit our understanding of the divine?
  • What are the risks of equating God with human emotions?
A Different Perspective

Metaphors may oversimplify complex divine nature.

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