Thomas Aquinas: 'Man cannot live without joy; therefore when he is deprived of true spiritual joys it is necessary that he become addicted to carnal pleasures.'

Man cannot live without joy; therefore when he is deprived of true spiritual joys it is necessary that he become addicted to carnal pleasures.

Thomas Aquinas, a renowned theologian and philosopher, once stated, "Man cannot live without joy; therefore when he is deprived of true spiritual joys, it is necessary that he becomes addicted to carnal pleasures." This profound quote encapsulates a fundamental truth about the human condition. Without experiencing genuine spiritual elation, individuals may seek solace in earthly pleasures as a substitute. Aquinas' words highlight the significance of cultivating spiritual fulfillment in our lives, as neglecting this aspect may lead us astray towards the pursuit of transient and often unsatisfactory carnal pleasures.In its simplest interpretation, Aquinas suggests that joy is an inherent need for humans. Just as we require sustenance for our physical bodies, joy serves as nourishment for our souls. It is the profound contentment that arises from embracing spiritual values, aligning with our purpose, and feeling connected to something greater than ourselves. When denied access to these true spiritual joys, individuals may find themselves seeking gratification in the material world, consequently becoming enticed by sensual pleasures that offer temporary relief but fail to provide lasting fulfillment.However, to delve deeper into this thought-provoking concept, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept – the hedonic treadmill. This theory proposes that individuals adapt to changes in their life circumstances, continually seeking heightened pleasure and satisfaction. Interestingly, the hedonic treadmill seems to echo Aquinas' observation regarding the potential addiction to carnal pleasures. While the pursuit of immediate gratification may temporarily alleviate the absence of true spiritual joy, it often traps individuals in a cycle of constantly striving for more pleasure without experiencing genuine contentment or lasting happiness.Contrasting Aquinas' perspective with the hedonic treadmill reveals that the pursuit of carnal pleasures as a substitute for spiritual joy is ultimately futile. The hedonic treadmill implies that material indulgences cannot provide sustained fulfillment because our desires are continually evolving. The momentary happiness derived from indulging in carnal pleasures soon diminishes, leaving individuals craving even more. In contrast, true spiritual joy offers a profound and everlasting sense of contentment, transcending the ebb and flow of material existence.Aquinas' quote serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing our spiritual well-being. While it is natural to seek pleasures and joys in life, the pursuit of carnal pleasures alone is akin to grasping at straws, as they offer only fleeting satisfaction. Instead, nurturing our spiritual selves allows us to tap into a wellspring of genuine and enduring joy. Engaging in practices such as meditation, gratefulness, and acts of kindness can open doors to spiritual experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of our purpose and connection to the divine.In conclusion, Thomas Aquinas' incisive quote compels us to reflect on the role of joy in our lives. It underscores the necessity of true spiritual joy for human fulfillment while cautioning against the allure of carnal pleasures as a substitute. By embracing our spiritual selves, we can traverse beyond the transient and unsatisfactory pursuit of earthly delights and embark on a journey towards lasting fulfillment and true inner peace.