Commencement Quote by Tertullian
“Now we allow that life begins with conception, because we contend that the soul also begins from conception; life taking its commencement at the same moment and place that the soul does.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: De Anima, 2nd century AD
Life and soul are seen as starting together at conception, linking physical existence with spiritual origin.
In simple terms: Life and soul begin at conception.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the unity of body and spirit from birth.
Themes
theology
anthropology
origin
spirituality
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- Medical ethics
- parental counseling
- bioethics debates
- spiritual formation
Key Concepts
Dualism
creation
soul-body unity
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view affect attitudes toward abortion?
- What implications does it have for end‑of‑life care?
A Different Perspective
Some traditions separate soul from body, challenging this view.
