Introduction
The concept of God’s nature and attributes has been debated by philosophers and theologians for centuries. One of the most contentious issues is the notion of God as a self-subsistent being. This attribute implies that God is entirely independent and self-existent, relying on nothing else for existence. However, this concept raises several concerns and contradictions, making it one of the least appropriate names of God.
Thomas Aquinas’ Summa Theologica is a seminal work in the history of Christian theology. In it, Aquinas explores various aspects of God’s nature, including the concept of God as Self-Subsistent Being. This assignment will examine what Aquinas said about this concept, its implications for our understanding of God, and its relevance to theodicy.
The Problem of Dependence
If God is self-subsistent, it implies that God is completely independent and relies on nothing else for existence. However, this raises questions about the nature of God’s relationship with creation. If God is entirely self-sufficient, why did God create the universe and humanity? Does God’s creation imply a form of dependence or need? This paradox highlights the tension between God’s self-subsistence and the apparent dependence on creation.
The Issue of Change and Impermanence
A self-subsistent being implies immutability and timelessness. However, the concept of God as a dynamic and interactive being contradicts this idea. If God is self-subsistent, how can God change or respond to human prayers and actions? The Bible describes God as a God who relents, repents, and changes (e.g., Exodus 32:14, Jonah 3:10). This dynamic nature of God challenges the notion of self-subsistence.
The Concern of Isolation
The concept of self-subsistence implies a level of isolation and disconnection from creation. If God is entirely self-sufficient, why would God bother to engage with humanity or the world? This isolation contradicts the biblical portrayal of God as a relational and loving being (e.g., 1 John 4:8). A self-subsistent God seems distant and uninvolved, undermining the notion of a personal and caring God.
Thomas Aquinas on God as Self-Subsistent Being.
Aquinas discusses the concept of God as Self-Subsistent Being in Part 1, Question 3, Article 3 of the Summa Theologica. Here, he argues that God’s existence is not dependent on anything else, but rather is necessary and self-sufficient. Aquinas writes, “God is not only His own essence, but also His own existence” (ST I, Q. 3, A. 3). This means that God’s being is not contingent upon anything else, but rather is self-subsistent.
Implications for Our Understanding of God
Aquinas’ concept of God as Self-Subsistent Being has significant implications for our understanding of God. Firstly, it emphasizes God’s independence and sovereignty. God is not dependent on anything else for existence, but rather is the source of all existence. Secondly, it highlights God’s immutability and eternity. As Self-Subsistent Being, God is not subject to change or decay, but rather remains eternally the same
Relevance to Theodicy
Being is also relevant to theodicy, the study of God’s relationship to evil. If God is Self-Subsistent Being, then God’s existence is not threatened by the presence of evil. Rather, God’s sovereignty and power are demonstrated in God’s ability to create and sustain a world despite the presence of evil. Furthermore, Aquinas’ concept of God as Self-Subsistent Being provides a framework for understanding God’s relationship to human suffering. As Self-Subsistent Being, God is not affected by human suffering, but rather is the source of comfort and strength for those who suffer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the concept of God as a self-subsistent being raises several concerns and contradictions. The problems of dependence, change, and isolation highlight the tension between God’s self-subsistence and the biblical portrayal of God as a dynamic, relational, and loving being. While the idea of self-subsistence may provide a sense of God’s power and
independence, it ultimately proves to be one of the least appropriate names of God.
Thomas Aquinas’ concept of God as Self-Subsistent Being is a central theme in the Summa Theologica. This concept emphasizes God’s independence, sovereignty, immutability, and eternity. It also has significant implications for our understanding of God’s relationship to evil and h.
References
Aquinas, T. (1265-1274). Summa Theologica. Translated by the Fathers of the English Dominican Province.
Davies, B. (1992). The Thought of Thomas Aquinas. Oxford University Press.
Kenny, A. (2002). Aquinas on Being. Oxford University Press.
Anselm of Canterbury. (1078). Proslogion.
Aquinas, T. (1265-1274). Summa Theologica.
Hartshorne, C. (1941). Man’s Vision of God and the Logic of Theism.
Moltmann, J. (1981). The Trinity and the Kingdom of God.
Presented by: IWUEKE VICTOR NNAMDI.
