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What is the relationship between the natural order and the supernatural order, according to Aquinas?

User Tsang
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Final answer:

According to Aquinas, the natural order is governed by natural laws and reflects the divine purpose. The supernatural order, on the other hand, is governed by divine laws and helps humans reach salvation.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to Thomas Aquinas, there are four types of laws: eternal, natural, human, and divine. The natural order refers to the order that exists in the natural world and is governed by natural laws. The supernatural order, on the other hand, refers to the order that exists beyond the natural world and is governed by divine laws.

Aquinas believed that the natural order is created and sustained by God. He argued that God designed the natural world with a specific purpose and that natural laws reflect this divine purpose. For example, the laws of nature that govern the growth of plants and animals serve a specific purpose of preserving and promoting life.

Additionally, Aquinas believed that the supernatural order is necessary for humans to reach salvation. Divine laws provide guidance and moral principles that go beyond what can be known through reason alone. These laws, revealed by God through the Ten Commandments and other divine revelations, help individuals live morally and fulfill their ultimate purpose.

User Kurt King
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