Thomas Aquinas: 'Faith has to do with things that are not seen and hope with things that are not at hand.'

Faith has to do with things that are not seen and hope with things that are not at hand.

In the realm of philosophy, there are countless profound declarations that have withstood the test of time, forever etched in the corridors of human understanding. One such contemplation, offered by the esteemed theologian Thomas Aquinas, invites us to ponder the nature of faith and hope through his words, "Faith has to do with things that are not seen and hope with things that are not at hand." Though seemingly straightforward, this quote encapsulates a profound truth about the essence of these two abstract concepts.At its core, Aquinas's statement emphasizes the inherent connections between faith, the belief in something we cannot perceive with our senses, and hope, the optimism and desire for what is not yet within our grasp. In a world dominated by concrete evidence and tangible experiences, this notion may initially appear paradoxical. However, upon closer examination, we uncover a depth of understanding that transcends the visible realm.Faith, in its purest form, demands the strength to trust in something beyond what our senses can confirm. It requires an unwavering conviction in the existence of that which lies outside our immediate comprehension. Faith beckons us to believe in the unseen, the intangible, and the mystical. It encourages us to step beyond the boundaries of empirical evidence, propelling us into a realm where the heart and soul unite with possibilities yet to be realized.Hope, on the other hand, navigates the realm of desire and aspiration. It fuels our dreams and fuels our ambitions, serving as a guiding force amidst uncertainty and adversity. Hope empowers us to envision a future beyond our current circumstances, affirming our belief in the potential for progress and growth. While faith intertwines with the transcendent, hope intertwines with the temporal existence, igniting our resolve and supporting us as we strive for a better tomorrow.To bring a touch of philosophical intrigue to this exploration, let us consider the concept of existentialism and its relationship to Aquinas's quote. Existentialism postulates that the individual is responsible for creating meaning in their own life and that each person's existence precedes their essence. This perspective implies that faith and hope are not bestowed upon us by external forces, but rather arise from within ourselves. In other words, faith and hope become a manifestation of our own choices and our own commitment to shaping our reality.When we view faith and hope through the existentialist lens, an interesting juxtaposition emerges. While Aquinas's quote emphasizes the connection between these concepts and the unseen and not-at-hand, existentialism reminds us that we hold the power to define what is unseen and not at hand. Faith can then be interpreted as the belief we cultivate in our intrinsic ability to navigate uncertain terrain and find meaning in the face of the unknown. Hope, in turn, arises from our recognition that we possess the agency and potential to shape a future that aligns with our deepest yearnings.In essence, Thomas Aquinas's quote reminds us that faith and hope are not passive states to be experienced but rather active forces that require our participation. They transcend the boundaries of the visible and the immediate, inviting us to embrace the enigmatic aspects of life and dare to venture beyond what our senses perceive. Whether viewed through the lens of traditional theology or within the framework of existentialism, this quote provokes contemplation and encourages us to reflect on the profound interplay between faith, hope, and the human experience.In conclusion, Aquinas's words reverberate through the annals of philosophical discourse, illuminating the essence of faith and hope. By reminding us of their connection to the unseen and not-at-hand, he puts forth a profound and timeless understanding of these abstract concepts. Simultaneously, when viewed through the lens of existentialism, his words take on a new dimension, emphasizing our active role in shaping the fate of faith and hope. As we navigate the complexities of life, may we find solace and inspiration in Aquinas's words, striving to embrace the unseen and believe in the possibilities that lie just beyond our grasp.