Thomas Aquinas: 'How can we live in harmony? First we need to know we are all madly in love with the same God.'

How can we live in harmony? First we need to know we are all madly in love with the same God.

In his profound statement, Thomas Aquinas proposes a unique perspective on achieving harmony among individuals. He suggests that recognizing and understanding that we are all passionately in love with the same God can be the key to living in harmony. At first glance, this insight may seem simplistic or even a bit idealistic. However, upon closer examination, it reveals a profound truth about the interconnectedness of spirituality and our human experience.Aquinas' assertion highlights the importance of recognizing our shared humanity and spiritual nature. Regardless of our religious beliefs or cultural backgrounds, there exists a common thread that connects all of us—the belief in a higher power, a divine being. By acknowledging this shared love for God, Aquinas encourages us to look beyond our differences and focus on the fundamental values that unite us.However, to truly appreciate Aquinas' concept, we must delve into an unexpected philosophical concept - the idea of the "God within." This concept suggests that the divine exists not only in an external entity separate from ourselves but also within each individual. This inner divine spark is a source of wisdom, compassion, and love that connects us all, transcending any specific religious doctrine.By recognizing the presence of this inner divinity in ourselves and others, we can cultivate a deeper sense of empathy and understanding. We come to understand that even though our paths may differ, we are all driven by the same universal longing for connection with the divine. In this understanding, we find common ground upon which true harmony can be built.Interestingly, this notion of the "God within" aligns with various spiritual and philosophical traditions, spanning cultures and epochs. For instance, in Hinduism, the concept of "Atman," which refers to the individual soul or self, is believed to be a manifestation of the divine reality that is inherent in all beings. Similarly, ancient Greek philosophers like Plato described the idea of an inner self or "nous" as the part of the individual that connects with the eternal forms or archetypes.While these differing perspectives present unique nuances, they all converge on the idea that our essential nature is intertwined with the divine. This shared human experience transcends religious boundaries and encompasses the essence of what it means to be human.In light of this, Aquinas' proposal takes on an even greater significance. When we recognize that the same divine force animates and connects us all, we can begin to cultivate a profound sense of unity and empathy. We start to see beyond the superficial differences that often divide us and acknowledge the underlying truth that we are all interconnected.This understanding allows us to approach our interactions with others from a place of love, compassion, and respect. We begin to recognize the inherent worth and dignity of each individual, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs. It becomes clear that our shared pursuit of a deeper connection with the divine provides a common ground upon which true harmony can flourish.In a world that is often fraught with division and conflict, Aquinas' insight offers us a profound opportunity for reflection and growth. By acknowledging that we are all madly in love with the same God, we can strive towards building a more harmonious and inclusive society. Let us embrace our shared humanity and unite in the pursuit of a deeper understanding and connection with the divine within ourselves and each other.