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It would seem that the ingratitude, whereby a subsequent…

“It would seem that the ingratitude, whereby a subsequent sin causes the return of sins previously forgiven, is a special sin. For, the giving of thanks belongs to counter passion, which is a necessary condition of justice. But justice is a special virtue. Therefore this ingratitude is a special…” quote by Thomas Aquinas
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“It would seem that the ingratitude, whereby a subsequent sin causes the return of sins previously forgiven, is a special sin. For, the giving of thanks belongs to counter passion, which is a necessary condition of justice. But justice is a special virtue. Therefore this ingratitude is a special sin. Thanksgiving is a special virtue. But ingratitude is opposed to thanksgiving. Therefore ingratitude is a special sin.”

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.

Ingratitude after forgiveness is a grave sin because gratitude is essential to justice and virtue

In simple terms: Being ungrateful after being forgiven is a serious fault

Key Takeaway

Cultivate gratitude to uphold justice

Themes

theology ethics virtue

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

theological ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal repentance
  • community forgiveness
  • ethical education

Key Concepts

justice gratitude sin

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we practice gratitude after hurt?
  • What limits gratitude?
A Different Perspective

Gratitude may be difficult in complex situations

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