Carrie Quote by Thomas Aquinas
“Without the suitable conditions life could not exist. But both life and its conditions set forth the operations of inscrutable Power. We know not its origin; we know not its end. And the presumption, if not the degradation, rests with those who place upon the throne of the universe a magnified image of themselves, and make its doings a mere colossal imitation of their own. Wonder was the motive that led people to philosophy ... wonder is a kind of desire in knowledge. It is the cause of delight because it carries with it the hope of discovery.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Summa Theologiae, Part I, Question 1, 1265–1274
Existence depends on conditions, yet both are governed by an inscrutable divine power beyond human comprehension.
In simple terms: Life and its conditions are set by a mysterious higher power.
Key Takeaway
Recognize humility before unknown forces.
Themes
theology
philosophy
humility
existence
Mood
contemplative
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- scientific inquiry
- spiritual practice
- ethical decision making
Key Concepts
metaphysics
divine providence
epistemic limits
Questions to Reflect On
- What does humility look like in scientific research?
- How do we balance wonder with acceptance of mystery?
A Different Perspective
Human reasoning cannot fully grasp the ultimate cause or end.
![“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)
