Question

Augustine admits that both our body (physical nature) and our soul (spiritual nature) are subject to change, since both are part of the created realm. But which of those two does he think is more important and can make the most significant changes? Why?

Answer 1

Augustine deemed the soul more important than the body, highlighting its potential for significant change through divine grace and the exercise of free will leading to salvation.

Step-by-step explanation:

St. Augustine considered the soul to be more important than the body in the realm of change and significance. This stems from his Christian philosophical work, particularly in 'The City of God', where he argues for the paramountcy of spiritual matters over earthly concerns. Despite acknowledging that both body and soul are susceptible to change as part of creation, Augustine emphasizes that it is through aligning the soul with the divine will, propelled by God's grace, that humans can transcend their physical limitations and attain the heavenly city. The soul's capability to choose the good, despite the inherent sinfulness due to the fall of Adam and Eve, showcases the soul's greater potential for significant change as compared to the physical body. This potential is rooted in the exercise of free will and the soul's openness to divine grace, ultimately leading towards salvation.