Doe Quote by Thomas Aquinas
“The fire of hell is called eternal, only because it never ends. Still, there is change in the pains of the lost... Hence in hell true eternity does not exist, but rather time.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Summa Theologica, Part I, Question 2, Article 3
Eternal fire is described as never ending, yet the experience of pain changes, implying that true eternity is not static time.
In simple terms: Hell's fire seems endless but its pain evolves, suggesting time exists there.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that even in seemingly unchanging suffering, change occurs.
Themes
theology
philosophy
afterlife
suffering
time
eternity
Mood
contemplative
somber
inquisitive
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- spiritual counseling
- literary analysis
- theological debate
Key Concepts
Eternalism
process philosophy
theodicy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does the notion of changing pain affect your view of eternity?
- Can suffering be both constant and evolving?
A Different Perspective
The concept of eternity may be metaphorical rather than literal.
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