Desirable Quote by Thomas Aquinas
“He who is drawn to something desirable does not desire to have it as a thought but as a thing.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Summa Theologica, Part I, Question 1, Article 2
Desire for something valuable should be directed toward its actual existence, not merely an abstract idea.
In simple terms: Wanting something should aim for its real presence, not just thought.
Key Takeaway
Seek tangible fulfillment, not empty longing.
Themes
desire
reality
philosophy
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal goals
- material acquisition
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
metaphysics
ethical intention
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate between wanting and needing?
- What actions turn desire into reality?
A Different Perspective
Focusing on the idea may neglect practical steps to obtain it.
![“[I]t is rather the case that we desire something because we believe it to be good than that we believe a thing to be good because we desire it. It is the thought that starts things off.” quote by Aristotle](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d10/aristotle-78_be-good_i-t-is-rather-the-case-that-we-desire-so_2172700.jpg)
![“By the divine providence [animals] are intended for man's use... Hence it is not wrong for man to make use of them, either by killing or in any other way whatsoever.” quote by Thomas Aquinas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f48/thomas-aquinas-837_animal_by-the-divine-providence-animals-are-int_112669.jpg)
