Definition

Proper noun: - Saint Thomas Aquinas: A prominent Italian theologian and philosopher of the Roman Catholic Church, a Doctor of the Church. He is renowned for his systematic work to synthesize Christian theology with the philosophy of Aristotle, aiming to reconcile faith and reason. His writings, most notably the Summa Theologica, present philosophical arguments for the existence of God and form a cornerstone of Catholic thought.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The theological works of Saint Thomas Aquinas continue to be studied in seminaries worldwide.
  • Many consider Saint Thomas Aquinas the greatest scholastic philosopher.

Advanced Usage

• "Thomism": The philosophical and theological school that arose from the work of Saint Thomas Aquinas.
  • Thomism has had a profound influence on Catholic education.
• "Aquinas": A common shortened reference to Saint Thomas Aquinas.
  • Aquinas argued for five proofs of God's existence.

Variants and Related Words

• Thomas Aquinas (Proper noun): The most common variant, often used without the title "Saint".
• Doctor Angelicus (Proper noun): A traditional title meaning "Angelic Doctor".
• Theologian (Noun): A person who engages in the study of theology.
• Scholasticism (Noun): The system of theological and philosophical teaching predominant in medieval Europe.

Synonyms

• Doctor of the Church: A title given to saints recognized for their significant contribution to theology or doctrine.
• Theologian: A specialist in theology.

Related Phrases

• Summa Theologica: His most famous and influential work.
  • The Summa Theologica is a comprehensive compendium of theology.
• Five Ways: His five philosophical arguments for the existence of God.
  • Aquinas's Five Ways are central to natural theology.

Noun

1. (Roman Catholic Church) Italian theologian and Doctor of the Church who is remembered for his attempt to reconcile faith and reason in a comprehensive theology; presented philosophical proofs of the existence of God (1225-1274)