Augustine Book XIV
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Questions and Answers

Why did God create individuals He knew would sin?

  • To demonstrate His power over even the most wicked.
  • To punish them for their predetermined sins.
  • To create a balance between good and evil in the world.
  • To show the extent of His grace and the consequences of sin. (correct)

    • Which aspect of human nature is emphasized as a key factor in the potential for both good and evil?

  • The innate desire for knowledge.
  • The ability to make choices. (correct)
  • The inherent need for social connection.
  • The capacity for self-preservation.

    • What does the text suggest about the role of the wicked angel in God's plan?

  • He is a source of temptation, testing the strength of human will. (correct)
  • He is a symbol of the potential for corruption within even the most righteous beings.
  • He is a necessary evil, providing a challenge for humanity's faith.
  • He is an instrument of punishment, serving God's wrath upon sinners.

    • What is the significance of the phrase "fixed number of citizens" in the text?

    <p>It implies that God has a predetermined number of individuals destined for salvation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The text suggests that the actions of both angels and humans who sin, do not ultimately impede God's plans. What explains this?

    <p>God uses the actions of both the good and the wicked to fulfill His will. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why does the text state that God "was not destitute of a plan" to populate His city with "fixed number of citizens"?

    <p>To emphasize God's foresight and meticulousness in planning creation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What implication does the statement "the whole mass was condemned as if in a vitiated root" have on the nature of sin?

    <p>Sin originated from a single source and spread like a disease. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Based on the text, how is grace distinguished from merits?

    <p>Grace is a gift from God, while merits are earned through good deeds. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the relationship between body and spirit described in the content?

    <p>They worked harmoniously together. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What interrupts the desire to labor in a less harmonious state?

    <p>Sleepiness. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How was conception described in the context of the first parents?

    <p>As a voluntary act without lust. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What barriers do modern discussions about sexual intercourse encounter according to the content?

    <p>An emphasis on modesty and shame. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of the first parents' experience is noted as absent in modern human experience?

    <p>The state of peaceful, passionless generation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What remarkable phenomenon was witnessed involving Restitutus?

    <p>He remained insensible and unfeeling as if dead. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What ability do some men have that mimics the behavior of animals or birds?

    <p>They can break wind to produce noise. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the content, what is the condition of man due to his abandonment of God?

    <p>He experiences misery and is unable to live as he wishes. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the text suggest about the blessed and the righteous?

    <p>Only the blessed truly live as they wish. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What state does the content describe as necessary for the righteous to live as they wish?

    <p>They must reach a place where they cannot die or be deceived. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What physiological ability is mentioned in relation to certain men, besides controlling sweat?

    <p>They can emit sounds resembling animal calls. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the implication of man's inability to live as he wishes?

    <p>He cannot consider himself blessed if he lives wickedly. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the account describe the state of Restitutus when he was insensible?

    <p>He was in a trance-like state, with no response to stimuli. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was in man's power even in Paradise?

    <p>To live wickedly (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary distinction between the two cities described?

    <p>The earthly city is driven by the love of self. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might God have allowed man to be tempted by an angel?

    <p>To demonstrate the importance of free will. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the earthly city seek as its source of glory?

    <p>Public admiration (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement reflects the attitude of the heavenly city towards God?

    <p>It acknowledges God as its glory. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the text imply about God's foreknowledge?

    <p>It allows the demonstration of free will. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes the rulers of the earthly city?

    <p>They operate from a place of pride. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do the princes of the heavenly city behave towards each other?

    <p>They serve one another in love. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is essential for a life to be considered blessed according to the content?

    <p>Loving the blessed life as it deserves (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the content describe the state of existence in Paradise?

    <p>Free from all wants and corruption (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the content suggest about death and living as one wishes?

    <p>Desiring an eternal life post-death indicates dissatisfaction with current life (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the content, what is a key characteristic of a blessed life?

    <p>The presence of pure joy and true gladness (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the phrase 'wishing only what he can' imply about the man's desires?

    <p>He has learned to adapt to his limitations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes the emotions of the inhabitants of Paradise?

    <p>Experiencing pure and true gladness (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the content imply about the concept of eternal life?

    <p>It is a natural state of existence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the content suggest about the relationship between husband and wife in Paradise?

    <p>Built on honest love and harmony (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What would have happened if men had remained innocent and obedient in Paradise regarding their generative organs?

    <p>They would have operated solely by will. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the author describe the movement of muscles in the human body?

    <p>They are entirely under voluntary control. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is mentioned as a comparison to the lungs in relation to their obedience to the will?

    <p>Bellows used by a smith or organist. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What power do some animals possess that man does not?

    <p>The ability to move a single spot of the skin voluntarily. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the author imply about the potential of man's bodily control?

    <p>God could have enabled full control if man had remained obedient. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which example shows a rare human ability mentioned in the text?

    <p>The ability to move the ears independently. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the passage, what would have influenced the movement of the generative organs in an obedient man?

    <p>Conscious will and intention. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the author mention as an extraordinary capability found in some individuals?

    <p>The ability to expel swallowed items at will. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Harmony of body and spirit

    A state where bodily functions and spiritual desires work in perfect alignment without conflict.

    Absence of lustful urges

    A condition where physical interactions occur without desire driven by lust, guided instead by will.

    First parents' experience

    The original human beings, before sin, acted without the complications of lust in reproduction.

    Modesty in discourse

    The careful limitation on discussing subjects considered shameful to maintain propriety.

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    Passionless generation

    The conception and childbirth process as it could have occurred without the taint of lust or sin.

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    Imitation of Sounds

    Ability to mimic voices and sounds indistinguishably.

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    Senseless State

    A condition where a person feels no pain or sensation.

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    Presbyter Restitutus

    A presbyter who could enter a death-like state at will.

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    Self-Command

    The ability to control one’s physical responses intentionally.

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    Human Condition

    The state of being subject to sin and corruption.

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    True Blessedness

    A state of ultimate happiness possible only for the righteous.

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    Righteousness

    Living in accordance with moral and divine laws.

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    Life vs. Desire

    The conflict between living as one wishes and true happiness.

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    God's Foreknowledge

    The belief that God knows all future events without influencing them.

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    Human Free Will

    The ability of humans to make choices independent of divine influence.

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    Temptation by Evil

    The act of being led to sin, often portrayed as from Satan or wicked influences.

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    Two Cities Concept

    The idea of two opposing cities: earthly (self-love) and heavenly (God-love).

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    Earthing vs Heavenly Love

    Earthly love focuses on self; heavenly love prioritizes God over self.

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    Grace vs Pride

    Grace represents divine aid in doing good, while pride leads to sin.

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    Glory in God

    Finding one’s glory and identity in the worship and service of God.

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    Servitude in the Heavenly City

    In the heavenly city, leaders serve humbly out of love, unlike the prideful rulers of the earthly city.

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    God's Providence

    God’s guidance and governance over the universe.

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    Grace

    Unmerited favor from God towards humans, enabling salvation.

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    Condemnation

    The state of being declared guilty or punished.

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    Free Will

    The ability to choose between different actions.

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    The Fall

    The event where the first man sinned and caused humanity to fall from grace.

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    Omnipotence

    God's all-powerful nature to do anything that is logically possible.

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    Wickedness of Angels

    The sinful actions or rebellion of angels against God's order.

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    Human Dependency

    The reliance of humans on God's grace and assistance for goodness.

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    Generative Organs

    Organs in humans responsible for reproduction, subject to will in innocence.

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    Willful Movement

    The ability to control body parts consciously, unlike movements driven by instinct or lust.

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    Animals' Power

    Capacity in some animals to move their skin to shake off irritants, unlike humans.

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    God's Design

    The belief that God could design humans to control their bodily functions fully if sin hadn't occurred.

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    Body Aspects

    Different bodily movements or functions that some individuals can perform uniquely.

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    Ears Movement

    Ability of some individuals to move their ears independently or together.

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    Scalp Control

    Ability to move the scalp without turning the head, a rare skill.

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    Regurgitation Ability

    Skill of some to bring up swallowed contents at will, resembling a magician's trick.

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    Nature's demands

    Nature seeks fulfillment, making life a quest.

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    Limited power of man

    Man cannot fully control life or death.

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    Blessed life

    A life that is loved and desired eternally.

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    Desire in Paradise

    In Paradise, man desired what God commanded.

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    Eternal life

    Life free from decay and desires; desired in Paradise.

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    Pure love

    Love based on a pure heart, conscience, and faith.

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    Absence of suffering

    In Paradise, there was no hunger, thirst, or pain.

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    True gladness

    Joy that comes from the presence of God.

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    Study Notes

    Chapter 24 - Generative Organs in Paradise

    • In the context of a pure and innocent existence, human generative organs would be governed entirely by the conscious will of an individual rather than by the impulsive nature of lust. This implies a profound ability to make choices regarding reproduction and intimacy without being driven by primal desires that often complicate human relationships.
    • The concept of willful movement is expansive, encompassing not only the traditional skeletal muscle control but also includes the intricate functions of soft-bodied organs and systems, such as the fine-tuning of facial expressions and the controlled expansion and contraction of the lungs. This suggests an integrated and harmonious operation of the human body, where even the subtleties of soft tissue are under conscious regulation.
    • Observations of the animal kingdom reveal that many species possess an impressive level of control over physiological processes, demonstrating adaptations that allow for a variety of responses to their environment. This control showcases the potential for beings, including humans, to engage with their bodies in a non-reactive manner, highlighting a sensitivity and awareness that transcends mere instinct.
    • In a hypothetical state of original obedience, humans would experience a heightened awareness of their bodily functions, granting them absolute mastery over their anatomy and physiological responses. This mastery would exist independently of instinctual or lust-driven motivations, representing a purified state of being where decision-making regarding bodily functions is aligned with higher intentions and consciousness.

    Chapter 25 - True Blessedness

    • True blessedness is attainable only by the righteous, who experience a state of existence wherein they cannot die, be harmed, or deceived. This state refers to an elevated sense of being, transcending the limitations and vulnerabilities that plague ordinary existence.
    • Current human existence is characterized by a deep-seated desire to live; however, this desire is often thwarted by the inherent reality of mortality, leading to a poignant awareness of the finite nature of life. Individuals frequently grapple with the innate urge for longevity, inevitably confronted with the constraints of time and the unpredictable nature of life.
    • A person is not considered truly blessed until they attain a lifestyle that transcends mortality, suggesting a life engaged in values that resonate with eternity and spiritual fulfillment. This concept denotes a higher calling or purpose, which imbues existence with deeper significance beyond mere survival.
    • Blessedness is characterized by an exalted love of life, a sentiment that surpasses other forms of affection. This love is not merely a fleeting emotion but a profound connection that fosters gratitude, joy, and a sense of belonging within the universe. True blessedness is, therefore, a holistic harmony that intertwines the love of life with spiritual richness, embodying a state of contentment that is both rare and desirable.

    Chapter 26 - Offspring Before the Fall

    • Humans in the state of innocence would have had the capacity to reproduce without shame or any physical discomfort. This lack of shame suggests an ideal state of purity, where the act of reproduction was sanctified and untainted by negative societal or psychological influences. It implies a harmonious relationship with both one’s own body and that of one’s partner.
    • The ability to reproduce would be a natural function of bodily processes, not driven by lust. In this state, the act of creation of new life would be seen as an expression of unity between partners, devoid of any selfish desires or overpowering cravings that often complicate romantic relationships in a post-Fall world.
    • Pre-Fall humans would have enjoyed perfect health and tranquility, reflecting a state of existence that is fundamentally different from our current lives. This means they experienced no diseases, aging, or emotional turmoil, allowing them to interact with the world and each other in an environment of complete safety and ease.
    • Reproduction in Paradise would have been a natural function, without the emotional or physical distress associated with sex post-Fall. This indicates that intimacy would not have involved anxiety or fear but rather would have fostered a sense of joy and fulfillment, reinforcing the bond shared among individuals.

    Chapter 27 - Angels & Men's Wickedness

    • The actions of sinful men, often driven by selfish desires and moral corruption, along with the malevolent intentions of fallen angels, do not interfere with God's overarching plans for creation. Despite the chaos and disorder that human sinfulness may introduce, it remains subservient to the divine will.
    • God possesses the ability to utilize the actions of the wicked to fulfill His divine purposes. This means that even wrongful acts can be woven into the fabric of His grand design, leading to meaningful outcomes. He permits certain circumstances to arise that play a crucial role in the spiritual and moral development of humans, shaping their character and enhancing their ability to choose righteousness.
    • God's omnipotence, a core attribute denoting His all-encompassing power, transcends any human sin and evil perpetrated by angels. This ensures the continuity of divine order in the universe, reinforcing the belief that ultimate justice and purpose prevail in the face of human wickedness.

    Chapter 28 - Two Cities

    • Two cities are formed by differing loves, representing the conflicting values that characterize human existence.
    • The earthly city is driven by self-love, prioritizing individual desires, ambitions, and status, often leading to conflict and division among humanity. In contrast, the heavenly city is fueled by the love of God, which encourages altruism, unity, and a shared purpose beyond mere earthly concerns.
    • The earthly city glorifies man, celebrating achievements, power, and material wealth, thereby creating a culture that often overlooks spiritual needs and ethical principles. The heavenly city, however, glorifies God, emphasizing the importance of divine virtues such as compassion, humility, and righteousness.
    • People can live either "in accordance with man," which often leads to moral ambiguity and existential uncertainty, or "in accordance with God," which guides them toward a life of purpose grounded in faith and community values.
    • People are to worship God alone, aligning their lives with divine intent and guidance, shunning the allure of man-made idols that represent false promises and distractions from true spiritual fulfillment.

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    Explore the concepts of human generative organs and the idea of true blessedness as discussed in Chapters 24 and 25. Delve into the philosophical perspectives on will, control over bodily functions, and the nature of a blessed life beyond mortality. Test your understanding of these profound themes.

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