Saint Augustine: 'Beauty is indeed a good gift of God but that the good may not think it a great good, God dispenses it even to the wicked.'

Beauty is indeed a good gift of God but that the good may not think it a great good, God dispenses it even to the wicked.

The quote by Saint Augustine, "Beauty is indeed a good gift of God but that the good may not think it a great good, God dispenses it even to the wicked," holds deep meaning and highlights the dual nature of beauty. In a straightforward manner, the quote suggests that beauty is undoubtedly a gift from God, but it does not necessarily imply that possessing beauty makes someone inherently good. Instead, God distributes beauty even to those who may be morally corrupt or wicked.However, let us delve deeper into the philosophical concept behind this quote to add an unexpected twist. Alongside the notion of beauty being a gift from God, let us consider the concept of moral relativism. This philosophical standpoint argues that morality is not absolute, but rather subjective, varying from person to person and culture to culture.By intertwining the underlying theme of moral relativism, we can compare and contrast how individuals perceive and comprehend beauty. One might find beauty in nature, architecture, or art, while another may find beauty in wealth, power, or even cruelty. These differing perspectives highlight the subjective nature of beauty and raise questions about whether beauty can transcend moral values.Moral relativism challenges the idea of defining beauty solely based on ethical considerations. It acknowledges that what one person considers beautiful may not align with the values of someone else. This opens up a fascinating discussion on the complex relationship between beauty and morality.On one hand, beauty can be seen as a reflection of the Divine, a glimpse into the perfection and goodness of God's creation. In this sense, beauty becomes intertwined with moral goodness, emphasizing that those who possess beauty possess a part of God's divine grace. However, Saint Augustine's quote suggests that beauty is not solely reserved for the morally upright or virtuous, as God bestows it even upon the wicked.This brings us to an intriguing question: Why would God grant beauty to those who do not uphold moral values? Perhaps it is a lesson in humility, a reminder that external beauty does not equate to inner righteousness. By allowing the wicked to possess beauty, God challenges the notion that physical attractiveness guarantees moral superiority.Furthermore, this quote serves as an important reminder for the morally good not to become ensnared by vanity or the allure of external beauty. It encourages them to recognize that beauty, though a gift from God, should not be idolized or considered a primary indicator of one's moral character. It is a humbling assertion that highlights the need to look beyond appearances and seek deeper connections based on virtue and righteousness.In conclusion, Saint Augustine's quote about beauty being a gift from God, even to the wicked, carries immense significance. By introducing the concept of moral relativism, we explore the subjectivity of beauty and its complex relationship with morality. This quote challenges our conventional understanding of beauty and urges us to look beyond appearances. Ultimately, it calls for a deeper understanding of beauty as a multifaceted concept that encompasses more than just physical attributes and serves as a reminder of the importance of inner virtue and righteousness.