[I.q.62.a.1.arg.1] It would seem that the angels were created in beatitude. For it is stated (De Eccl. Dogm. xxix) that \"the angels who continue in the beatitude wherein they were created, do not of their nature possess the excellence they have.\" Therefore the angels were created in beatitude.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.arg.1] Ad primum sic proceditur. 1. Videtur quod angeli fuerint creati beati. Dicitur enim in lib. De eccles. dogm., c. xxix, col. 4218, Op. Aug., t. VIII, quod « angeli qui in illa qua creati sunt beatitudine perseverant, non natura possident bonum quod habent. » Sunt ergo angeli creati in beatitudine.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.arg.2] Further, the angelic nature is nobler than the corporeal creature. But the corporeal creature straightway from its creation was made perfect and complete; nor did its lack of form take precedence in time, but only in nature, as Augustine says (Gen. ad lit. i, 15). Therefore neither did God create the angelic nature imperfect and incomplete. But its formation and perfection are derived from its beatitude, whereby it enjoys God. Therefore it was created in beatitude.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.arg.2] 2. Præterea, natura angelica est nobilior quam corporalis. Sed creatura corporalis statim in principio suæ creationis fuit creata, formata et perfecta; nec informitas præcesit in ea formationem tempore, sed natura tantum, ut Augustinus dicit, I Super Gen. ad litteram, cap. xv, col. 257, t. 3. Ergo nec naturam angelicam creavit Deus informem et imperfectam. Sed ejus formatio et perfectio est per beatitudinem, secundum quod fruitur Deo. Ergo fuit creata beata.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.arg.3] Further, according to Augustine (Gen. ad lit. iv, 34; v, 5), the things which we read of as being made in the works of the six days, were made together at one time; and so all the six days must have existed instantly from the beginning of creation. But, according to his exposition, in those six days, \"the morning\" was the angelic knowledge, according to which they knew the Word and things in the Word. Therefore straightway from their creation they knew the Word, and things in the Word. But the bliss of the angels comes of seeing the Word. Consequently the angels were in beatitude straightway from the very beginning of their creation.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.arg.3] 3. Præterea, secundum Augustinum, IV Super Gen. ad litteram, cap. xxxiv, etc., col. 319, t. 3, ea quæ leguntur facta in operibus sex dierum, simul facta fuerunt, et sic oportet quod statim a principio creationis rerum fuerint omnes illi sex dies. Sed in illis sex diebus, secundum ejus expositionem, mane fuit cognitio angelica, secundum quam cognoverunt Verbum, et res in Verbo. Ergo statim a principio creationis cognoverunt Verbum, et res in Verbo. Sed angeli beati sunt per hoc quod Verbum vident. Ergo statim a principio suæ creationis angeli fuerunt beati.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.sc] To be established or confirmed in good is of the nature of beatitude. But the angels were not confirmed in good as soon as they were created; the fall of some of them shows this. Therefore the angels were not in beatitude from their creation.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.sc] Sed contra, de ratione beatitudinis est stabilitas, sive confirmatio in bono. Sed angeli non statim ut creati sunt, fuerunt confirmati in bono; quod casus quorumdam ostendit. Non ergo angeli in sua creatione fuerunt beati.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.co] By the name of beatitude is understood the ultimate perfection of rational or of intellectual nature; and hence it is that it is naturally desired, since everything naturally desires its ultimate perfection. Now there is a twofold ultimate perfection of rational or of intellectual nature. The first is one which it can procure of its own natural power; and this is in a measure called beatitude or happiness. Hence Aristotle (Ethic. x) says that man's ultimate happiness consists in his most perfect contemplation, whereby in this life he can behold the best intelligible object; and that is God. Above this happiness there is still another, which we look forward to in the future, whereby \"we shall see God as He is.\" This is beyond the nature of every created intellect, as was shown above (Question 12, Article 4).
\nSo, then, it remains to be said, that, as regards this first beatitude, which the angel could procure by his natural power, he was created already blessed. Because the angel does not acquire such beatitude by any progressive action, as man does, but, as was observed above (58, 3,4), is straightway in possession thereof, owing to his natural dignity. But the angels did not have from the beginning of their creation that ultimate beatitude which is beyond the power of nature; because such beatitude is no part of their nature, but its end; and consequently they ought not to have it immediately from the beginning.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.co] Respondeo dicendum, quod nomine beatitudinis intelligitur ultima perfectio rationalis seu intellectualis naturæ, et inde est quod naturaliter desideratur, quia unumquodque naturaliter desiderat suam ultimam perfectionem. Ultima autem perfectio rationalis seu intellectualis naturæ est duplex; una quidem quam potest assequi virtute suæ naturæ, et hæc quodam modo beatitudo vel felicitas dicitur. Unde et Aristoteles, X Ethic., c. viii, perfectissimam hominis contemplationem, qua optimum intelligibile, quod est Deus, contemplari potest in hac vita, dicit esse ultimam hominis felicitatem. Sed super hanc felicitatem est alia felicitas, quam in futuro expectamus, qua videbimus Deum sicuti est; quod quidem est supra cujuslibet intellectus creati naturam, ut supra ostensum est. Sic igitur dicendum est, quod quantum ad primam beatitudinem, quam angelus assequi virtute suæ naturæ potuit, fuit creatus beatus; quia perfectionem hujusmodi angelus non acquirit per aliquem motum discursivum, sicut homo; sed statim ei adest propter suæ naturæ dignitatem, ut supra dictum est. Sed ultimam beatitudinem, quae facultatem naturæ excedit, angeli non statim in principio suæ creationis habuerunt; quia hæc beatitudo non est aliquid naturæ, sed naturæ finis; et ideo non statim eam a principio debuerunt habere.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.ad.1] Beatitude is there taken for that natural perfection which the angel had in the state of innocence.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.ad.1] Ad primum ergo dicendum, quod beati-tudo ibi accipitur pro illa perfectione naturali quam angelus habuit in statu innocentiæ.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.ad.2] The corporeal creature instantly in the beginning of its creation could not have the perfection to which it is brought by its operation; consequently, according to Augustine (Gen. ad. lit. v, 4,23; viii, 3), the growing of plants from the earth did not take place at once among the first works, in which only the germinating power of the plants was bestowed upon the earth. In the same way, the angelic creature in the beginning of its existence had the perfection of its nature; but it did not have the perfection to which it had to come by its operation.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.ad.2] Ad secundum dicendum, quod creatura corporalis statim in principio suæ creationis habere non potuit perfectionem ad quam per suam operationem perducitur. Unde, secundum Augustinum, De Gen. ad litt., lib. V, c. iv, col. 323; c. xxiii, col. 337, et lib. VIII, c. iii, col. 374, t. 3, germinatio plantarum ex terra non statim fuit in primis operibus, in quibus virtus sola germinativa plantarum data est terræ. Et similiter creatura angelica in principio suæ creationis habuit perfectionem suæ naturæ, non autem perfectionem ad quam per suam operationem pervenire debebat.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.ad.3] The angel has a twofold knowledge of the Word; the one which is natural, and the other according to glory. He has a natural knowledge whereby he knows the Word through a similitude thereof shining in his nature; and he has a knowledge of glory whereby he knows the Word through His essence. By both kinds of knowledge the angel knows things in the Word; imperfectly by his natural knowledge, and perfectly by his knowledge of glory. Therefore the first knowledge of things in the Word was present to the angel from the outset of his creation; while the second was not, but only when the angels became blessed by turning to the good. And this is properly termed their morning knowledge.
\n[I.q.62.a.1.ad.3] Ad tertium dicendum, quod angelus duplicem habet Verbi cognitionem, unam naturalem, et aliam gloriæ; naturalem quidem, qua cognoscit Verbum per ejus similitudinem in sua natura relucentem; cognitionem vero gloriæ, qua cognoscit Verbum per suam essentiam. Et utraque cognoscit angelus res in Verbo, sed naturali quidem cognitione imperfecte, cognitione vero gloriæ perfecte. Prima ergo cognitio rerum in Verbo affuit angelis a principio suæ creationis; secunda vero non, sed quando facti sunt beati per conversionem ad bonum; et hæc proprie dicitur cognitio matutina.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.arg.1] It would seem that the angel had no need of grace in order to turn to God. For, we have no need of grace for what we can accomplish naturally. But the angel naturally turns to God: because he loves God naturally, as is clear from what has been said (60, 5). Therefore an angel did not need grace in order to turn to God.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.arg.1] Ad secundum sic proceditur. 1. Videtur quod angelus non indiguerit gratia ad hoc quod converteretur in Deum. Ad ea enim quæ naturaliter possumus, gratia non indigemus. Sed naturaliter angelus convertitur in Deum, quia naturaliter Deum diligit, ut ex supra dictis patet. Ergo angelus non in- Pro beatitudine naturali Guillermus, Bonaventura, Richardus et Scotistæ concordant. Quoad dæmones, an in illa beatitudine permanserint? Quidam concedunt, alii majori numero negant. Primi in dæmonibus beatitudinem secundum quid admitdiguit gratia ad hoc quod converteretur in Deum.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.arg.2] Further, seemingly we need help only for difficult tasks. Now it was not a difficult task for the angel to turn to God; because there was no obstacle in him to such turning. Therefore the angel had no need of grace in order to turn to God.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.arg.2] 2. Præterea, ad ea tantum videmur indigere auxilio quæ sunt difficilia. Sed converti ad Deum non erat difficile angelo, cum nihil esset in eo quod huic conversioni repugnaret. Ergo angelus non indiguit auxilio gratia ad hoc quod converteretur in Deum.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.arg.3] Further, to turn oneself to God is to dispose oneself for grace; hence it is said (Zechariah 1:3): \"Turn ye to Me, and I will turn to you.\" But we do not stand in need of grace in order to prepare ourselves for grace: for thus we should go on to infinity. Therefore the angel did not need grace to turn to God.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.arg.3] 3. Præterea, converti ad Deum est se ad gratiam præparare; unde Zach., 1, 3, dicitur: Convertimini ad me, et ego* convertar ad vos. Sed nos non indigemus gratia ad hoc quod nos ad gratiam præparemus, quia sic esset abire in infinitum. Ergo non indiguit gratia angelus ad hoc quod converteretur in Deum.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.sc] It was by turning to God that the angel reached to beatitude. If, then, he had needed no grace in order to turn to God, it would follow that he did not require grace in order to possess everlasting life. But this is contrary to the saying of the Apostle (Romans 6:23): \"The grace of God is life everlasting.\"
\n[I.q.62.a.2.sc] Sed contra, per conversionem ad Deum angelus pervenit ad beatitudinem. Si igitur non indiguiset gratia ad hoc quod converteretur in Deum, sequeretur quod non indigeret gratia ad habendam vitam æternam, quod est contra illud Apostoli, Rom., vi, 23: Gratia Dei vita æterna.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.co] The angels stood in need of grace in order to turn to God, as the object of beatitude. For, as was observed above (Question 60, Article 2) the natural movement of the will is the principle of all things that we will. But the will's natural inclination is directed towards what is in keeping with its nature. Therefore, if there is anything which is above nature, the will cannot be inclined towards it, unless helped by some other supernatural principle. Thus it is clear that fire has a natural tendency to give forth heat, and to generate fire; whereas to generate flesh is beyond the natural power of fire; consequently, fire has no tendency thereto, except in so far as it is moved instrumentally by the nutritive soul.
\nNow it was shown above (12, 4,5), when we were treating of God's knowledge, that to see God in His essence, wherein the ultimate beatitude of the rational creature consists, is beyond the nature of every created intellect. Consequently no rational creature can have the movement of the will directed towards such beatitude, except it be moved thereto by a supernatural agent. This is what we call the help of grace. Therefore it must be said that an angel could not of his own will be turned to such beatitude, except by the help of grace.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.co] Respondeo dicendum, quod angeli indiguerunt gratia ad hoc quod converterentur in Deum prout est objectum beatitudinis. Sicut enim superius dictum est, naturalis motus voluntatis est principium omnium eorum quæ volumus; naturalis autem inclinatio voluntatis est ad id quod est conveniens secundum naturam. Et ideo, si aliquid sit supra naturam, voluntas in id ferri non potest, nisi ab aliquo alio supernaturali principio adjuta; sicut patet quod ignis habet naturalem inclinationem ad calefaciendum et ad generandum ignem. Sed generare carnem est supra naturalem virtutem ignis; unde ignis ad hoc nullam inclinationem habet, nisi secundum quod movetur ut instrumentum ab anima nutritiva. Ostensum est autem supra, cum de Dei cognitione agereur, quod videre Deum per essentiam, in quo ultima beatitudino rationalis creaturæ consistit, est supra naturam cujuslibet intellectus creati. Unde nulla creatura rationalis potest habere motum voluntatis ordinatum ad illam beatitudinem, nisi mota a supernaturali agente: et hoc dicimus auxi-lium gratia. Et ideo dicendum est quod tunt ex naturali cognitione et dilectione Dei, ad instar hominis durissimos inter cruciatus Dei contemplationem habentis. S. Thomas statui nocentiæ beatitudinem naturalem attribuit. angelus in illam beatitudinem voluntate converti non potuit nisi per auxilium gratiae.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.ad.1] The angel loves God naturally, so far as God is the author of his natural being. But here we are speaking of turning to God, so far as God bestows beatitude by the vision of His essence.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.ad.1] Ad primum ergo dicendum, quod angelus naturaliter diligit Deum, inquantum est principium naturalis esse. Hic autem loquimur de conversione ad Deum, inquantum est beatificans per suæ essentiae visionem.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.ad.2] A thing is \"difficult\" which is beyond a power; and this happens in two ways.
\nFirst of all, because it is beyond the natural capacity of the power. Thus, if it can be attained by some help, it is said to be \"difficult\"; but if it can in no way be attained, then it is \"impossible\"; thus it is impossible for a man to fly. In another way a thing may be beyond the power, not according to the natural order of such power, but owing to some intervening hindrance; as to mount upwards is not contrary to the natural order of the motive power of the soul; because the soul, considered in itself, can be moved in any direction; but is hindered from so doing by the weight of the body; consequently it is difficult for a man to mount upwards. To be turned to his ultimate beatitude is difficult for man, both because it is beyond his nature, and because he has a hindrance from the corruption of the body and infection of sin. But it is difficult for an angel, only because it is supernatural.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.ad.2] Ad secundum dicendum, quod difficile est quod transcendit potentiam; sed hoc contingit esse dupliciter. Uno modo quia transcendit potentiam secundum suum naturalem ordinem, et tunc si ad hoc possit pervenire aliquo auxilio, dicitur difficile; si autem nullo modo, dicitur impossibile, sicut impossibile est hominem volare. Alio modo transcendit aliquid potentiam, non secundum ordinem naturalem potentiae, sed propter aliquod impedimentum potentiae adjunctum; sicut ascendere non est contra naturalem ordinem potentiae animæ motivæ, quia anima, quantum est de se, nata est movere in quamlibet partem; sed impeditur ab hoc propter corporis gravitatem; unde difficile est homini ascendere. Converti autem ad beatitudinem ultimam homini quidem est difficile, et quia est supra naturam, et quia habet impedimentum ex corruptione corporis et infectione peccati; sed angelo est difficile propter hoc solum quod est supernaturale.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.ad.3] Every movement of the will towards God can be termed a conversion to God. And so there is a threefold turning to God. The first is by the perfect love of God; this belongs to the creature enjoying the possession of God; and for such conversion, consummae grace is required. The next turning to God is that which merits beatitude; and for this there is required habitual grace, which is the principle of merit. The third conversion is that whereby a man disposes himself so that he may have grace; for this no habitual grace is required; but the operation of God, Who draws the soul towards Himself, according to Lamentations 5:21: \"Convert us, O Lord, to Thee, and we shall be converted.\" Hence it is clear that there is no need to go on to infinity.
\n[I.q.62.a.2.ad.3] Ad tertium dicendum, quod quilibet motus voluntatis in Deum potest dici conversio in ipsum; et ideo triplex est conversio in Deum: una quidem per dilectionem perfectam, quæ est creaturæ jam Deo fruentis; et ad hanc conversionem requiritur gratia consummata. Alia conversio est quæ est merendi principium. Tertia conversio est per quam aliquis præparat se ad gratiam habendam: et ad hanc non exigitur aliqua habitualis gratia, sed operatio Dei ad se animam convertentis, secundum illud Thren., ult., 21: Converte nos, Domine, ad te, et convertemur. Unde patet quod non est procedere in infinitum.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.arg.1] It would seem that the angels were not created in grace. For Augustine says (Gen. ad lit. ii, 8) that the angelic nature was first made without form, and was called \"heaven\": but afterwards it received its form, and was then called \"light.\" But such formation comes from grace. Therefore they were not created in grace.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.arg.1] Ad tertium sic proceditur. 4. Videtur quod angeli non sint creati in gratia. Dicit enim Augustinus, Super Gen. ad litt., lib. II, c. 1, II, etc., col. 247, etc., t. 3, quod « angelica natura primo erat informiter creata, et cælum dicta; postmodum vero formata est, et lux appellata. » Sed hæc formatio est per gratiam. Ergo angeli non sunt creati in gratia.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.arg.2] Further, grace turns the rational creature towards God. If, therefore, the angel had been created in grace, no angel would ever have turned away from God.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.arg.2] 2. Præterea, gratia inclinat creaturam rationalem in Deum. Si igitur angelus in gratia creatus fuisset, nullus angelus fuisset a Deo aversus.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.arg.3] Further, grace comes midway between nature and glory. But the angels were not beatified in their creation. Therefore it seems that they were not created in grace; but that they were first created in nature only, and then received grace, and that last of all they were beatified.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.arg.3] 3. Præterea, gratia medium est inter naturam et gloriam. Sed angeli non fuerunt beati in sua creatione. Ergo videtur quod nec etiam creati sunt in gratia, sed primo in natura tantum, postea autem adepti sunt gratiam, et ultimo facti sunt beati.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.sc] Augustine says (De Civ. Dei xii, 9), \"Who wrought the good will of the angels? Who, save Him Who created them with His will, that is, with the pure love wherewith they cling to Him; at the same time building up their nature and bestowing grace on them?\"
\n[I.q.62.a.3.sc] Sed contra est quod Augustinus dicit, XII De civ. Dei, cap. 1x, § 2, col. 357, t. 7: « Bonam voluntatem quis fecit in angelis, nisi ille qui eos cum sua voluntate, id est, cum amore casto, quo illi adhæerent, creavit, simul in eis condens naturam, et largiens gratiam? »
\n[I.q.62.a.3.co] Although there are conflicting opinions on this point, some holding that the angels were created only in a natural state, while others maintain that they were created in grace; yet it seems more probable, and more in keeping with the sayings of holy men, that they were created in sanctifying grace. For we see that all things which, in the process of time, being created by the work of Divine Providence, were produced by the operation of God, were created in the first fashioning of things according to seedlike forms, as Augustine says (Gen. ad lit. viii, 3), such as trees, animals, and the rest. Now it is evident that sanctifying grace bears the same relation to beatitude as the seedlike form in nature does to the natural effect; hence (1 John 3:9) grace is called the \"seed\" of God. As, then, in Augustine's opinion it is contended that the seedlike forms of all natural effects were implanted in the creature when corporeally created, so straightway from the beginning the angels were created in grace.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.co] Respondeo dicendum, quod quamvis super hoc sint diversæ opiniones, quibusdam dicentibus quod creati sunt angeli in naturalibus tantum; aliis vero quod sunt creati in gratia, hoc tamen probabilius videtur tenendum, et magis dictis sanctorum consonum est, quod fuerunt creati in gratia gratum faciente. Sic enim videmus quod omnia quae processu temporis per opus divinæ providentiae creata a Deo operante sunt producta, in prima rerum conditione producta sunt secundum quasdam seminales rationes, ut Augustinus dicit, V Sup. Gen. ad litt., c. xxiii, § 45, col. 338, t. 3, sicut arbores et animalia, et alia hujusmodi. Manifestum est autem quod gratia gratum faciens hoc modo comparatur ad beatitudinem, sicut ratio seminalis in natura ad effectum naturalem. in hoc concordes angelos tenent non indiguisse nisi auxilio gratiae sufficientis, seu posse dantis. Thomistæ contendunt eos indiguisse auxilio gratiae efficacis, et cum S. Thoma pro eis non ex sola naturæ infirmitate, ut Jansenistæ volunt, sed etiam ex supernaturalitate objecti naturæ vires exceden-tis gratiae necessitatem repetunt. Unde I Joan., III, gratia semen Dei nomina-tur. Sicut igitur secundum opinionem Augustini ponitur quod statim in prima crea-tione corporalis creaturæ inditæ sunt ei seminales rationes omnium naturalium effectuum; ita statim a principio sunt angeli creati in gratia.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.ad.1] Such absence of form in the angels can be understood either by comparison with their formation in glory; and so the absence of formation preceded formation by priority of time. Or else it can be understood of the formation according to grace: and so it did not precede in the order of time, but in the order of nature; as Augustine holds with regard to the formation of corporeal things (Gen. ad lit. i, 15).
\n[I.q.62.a.3.ad.1] Ad primum ergo dicendum, quod informi-tas illa angeli potest intelligi vel per compa-rationem ad formationem gloriæ, et sic præcessit tempore informitas formationem; vel per comparisonem ad formationem gratiæ, et sic non præcessit ordine temporis, sed ordine naturæ, sicut etiam de formatione corporali Augustinus ponit, lib. I Sup. Gen. ad litt., cap. xv, col. 257, t. 3.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.ad.2] Every form inclines the subject after the mode of the subject's nature. Now it is the mode of an intellectual nature to be inclined freely towards the objects it desires. Consequently the movement of grace does not impose necessity; but he who has grace can fail to make use of it, and can sin.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.ad.2] Ad secundum dicendum, quod omnis forma inclinat suum subjectum secundum modum naturæ ejus. Modus autem naturalis intellectualis naturæ est ut libere feratur in ea quæ vult. Et ideo inclinatio gratiæ non imponit necessitatem, sed habens gratiam potest ea non uti, et peccare.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.ad.3] Although in the order of nature grace comes midway between nature and glory, nevertheless, in the order of time, in created nature, glory is not simultaneous with nature; because glory is the end of the operation of nature helped by grace. But grace stands not as the end of operation, because it is not of works, but as the principle of right operation. Therefore it was fitting for grace to be given straightway with nature.
\n[I.q.62.a.3.ad.3] Ad tertium dicendum, quod, quamvis gratia sit medium inter naturam et gloriam ordine naturæ, tamen ordine temporis in natura creata non debuit simul esse gloria cum natura, quia est finis operationis ipsius naturæ per gratiam adjutæ. Gratia autem non se habet ut finis operationis, quia non est ex operibus, sed ut principium bene operandi. Et ideo statim cum natura gratiam dare conveniens fuit.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.arg.1] It would seem that the angel did not possess beatitude instantly after one act of merit. For it is more difficult for a man to do well than for an angel. But man is not rewarded at once after one act of merit. Therefore neither was the angel.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.arg.1] Ad quintum sic proceditur. 1. Videtur quod angelus non statim post unum actum meritorium beatitudinem habuerit. Difficilius enim est homini bene operari quam angelo. Sed homo non præmiatur statim post unum actum. Ergo neque angelus. Præterea, angelus statim in principio suæ creationis et in instanti actum aliquem habere potuit, cum etiam corpora naturalia in ipso instanti suæ creationis moveri incipiant; et si motus corporis in instanti esse posset, sicut operatio intellectus et voluntatis, in primo instanti suæ generationis motum haberent. Si ergo angelus per unum motum suæ voluntatis beatitudinem meruit, in primo instanti suæ creationis meruit beatitudinem. Si ergo eorum beatitudo non retardatur, statim in primo instanti fuerunt beati.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.arg.2] Further, an angel could act at once, and in an instant, from the very outset of his creation, for even natural bodies begin to be moved in the very instant of their creation; and if the movement of a body could be instantaneous, like operations of mind and will, it would have movement in the first instant of its generation. Consequently, if the angel merited beatitude by one act of his will, he merited it in the first instant of his creation; and so, if their beatitude was not retarded, then the angels were in beatitude in the first instant.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.arg.3] Further, there must be many intervals between things which are far apart. But the beatific state of the angels is very far remote from their natural condition: while merit comes midway between. Therefore the angel would have to pass through many stages of merit in order to reach beatitude.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.arg.3] 3. Præterea, inter multum distantia oportet esse multa media. Sed status beatitudinis angelorum multum distat a statu naturæ eorum; medium autem inter utrumque est meritum. Oportuit igitur quod per multa merita angelus ad beatitudinem pervenerit.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.sc] Man's soul and an angel are ordained alike for beatitude: consequently equality with angels is promised to the saints. Now the soul separated from the body, if it has merit deserving beatitude, enters at once into beatitude, unless there be some obstacle. Therefore so does an angel. Now an angel instantly, in his first act of charity, had the merit of beatitude. Therefore, since there was no obstacle within him, he passed at once into beatitude by only one meritorious act.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.sc] Sed contra, anima hominis et angelus similiter ad beatitudinem ordinantur; unde sanctis promittitur æqualitas angelorum. Sed anima a corpore separata, si habeat meritum beatitudinis, statim beatitudinem consequitur, nisi aliud sit impedimentum. Ergo pari ratione et angelus. Sed statim in primo actu charitatis habuit meritum beatitudinis. Ergo cum in eo non esset aliquod impedimentum, statim ad beatitudinem pervenit per solum unum actum meritorium.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.co] The angel was beatified instantly after the first act of charity, whereby he merited beatitude. The reason whereof is because grace perfects nature according to the manner of the nature; as every perfection is received in the subject capable of perfection, according to its mode. Now it is proper to the angelic nature to receive its natural perfection not by passing from one stage to another; but to have it at once naturally, as was shown above (1; 58, 3,4). But as the angel is of his nature inclined to natural perfection, so is he by merit inclined to glory. Hence instantly after merit the angel secured beatitude. Now the merit of beatitude in angel and man alike can be from merely one act; because man merits beatitude by every act informed by charity. Hence it remains that an angel was beatified straightway after one act of charity.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.co] Respondeo dicendum, quod angelus post primum actum charitatis, quo beatitudinem meruit, statim beatus fuit. Cujus ratio est quia gratia perficit naturam secundum modum naturæ, sicut et omnis perfectio recipitur in perfectibili secundum modum ejus. Est autem hoc proprium naturæ angelicæ quod naturalem perfectionem non per discursum acquirat, sed statim per naturam habeat, sicut supra ostensum est. Sicut autem ex sua natura angelus habet ordinem ad perfectionem naturalem, ita ex merito habet ordinem ad gloriam; et ita statim post meritum in angelo fuit beatitudo consecuta. Meritum autem beatitudinis non solum in angelo, sed etiam in homine esse potest per unicum actum: quia quolibet actu charitate informato homo beatitudinem meretur. Unde relinquitur quod statim post unnm actum charitate informatum angelus beatus fuit.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.ad.1] Man was not intended to secure his ultimate perfection at once, like the angel. Hence a longer way was assigned to man than to the angel for securing beatitude.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.ad.1] Ad primum ergo dicendum, quod homo secundum suam naturam non statim natus est ultimam perfectionem adipisci, sicut angelus, et ideo homini longior via data est ad merendum beatitudinem quam angelo.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.ad.2] The angel is above the time of corporeal things; hence the various instants regarding the angels are not to be taken except as reckoning the succession of their acts. Now their act which merited beatitude could not be in them simultaneously with the act of beatitude, which is fruition; since the one belongs to imperfect grace, and the other to consummate grace. Consequently, it remains for different instants to be conceived, in one of which the angel merited beatitude, and in another was beatified.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.ad.2] Ad secundum dicendum, quod angelus est Juxta Magistrum quem communiter in hoc doctores deserunt angelorum fuit præmium prius, et posterius nobis ministrando meritum. Scotorellus, Guillermus, Scotistæ cum S. Thoma et Thosupra tempus rerum corporalium. Unde instantia diversa in his quae ad angelos pertinent, non accipiuntur nisi secundum successionem in ipsorum actibus. Non autem potuit simul in eis esse actus meritorius beatitudinis, et actus beatitudinis, qui est fruitio, cum unus sit gratiae imperfectae, et alius gratiae consummatae. Unde relinquitur quod oportet diversa instantia accipi, in quorum uno meruerit beatitudinem et in alio fuerit beatus.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.ad.3] It is of the nature of an angel instantly to attain the perfection unto which he is ordained. Consequently, only one meritorious act is required; which act can so far be called an interval as through it the angel is brought to beatitude.
\n[I.q.62.a.5.ad.3] Ad tertium dicendum, quod de natura angeli est quod statim suam perfectionem consequatur, ad quam ordinatur; et ideo non requiritur nisi unus actus meritorius, qui ea ratione medium dici potest, quia secundum ipsum angelus ad beatitudinem ordinatur.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.arg.1] It would seem that the angels did not receive grace and glory according to the degree of their natural gifts. For grace is bestowed of God's absolute will. Therefore the degree of grace depends on God's will, and not on the degree of their natural gifts.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.arg.1] Ad sextum sic proceditur. 4. Videtur quod angeli non sint consecuti gratiam et gloriam secundum quantitatem suorum naturalium. Gratia enim ex mera Dei voluntate datur. Ergo et quantitas gratiae dependet ex voluntate Dei, et non ex quantitate naturalium.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.arg.2] Further, a moral act seems to be more closely allied with grace than nature is; because a moral act is preparatory to grace. But grace does not come \"of works,\" as is said in Romans 11:6. Therefore much less does the degree of grace depend upon the degree of their natural gifts.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.arg.2] 2. Præterea, magis propinquum videtur ad gratiam actus humanus quam natura, quia actus humanus præparatorius est ad gratiam. Sed gratia non est ex operibus, ut dicitur Rom., xi. Multo igitur minus quantitas in angelis est secundum quantitatem naturalium.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.arg.3] Further, man and angel are alike ordained for beatitude or grace. But man does not receive more grace according to the degree of his natural gifts. Therefore neither does the angel.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.arg.3] 3. Præterea, homo et angelus pariter ordinantur ad beatitudinem vel gratiam. Sed homini non datur plus de gratia secundum gradum naturalium. Ergo nec angelo.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.sc] Is the saying of the Master of the Sentences (Sent. ii, D, 3) that \"those angels who were created with more subtle natures and of keener intelligence in wisdom, were likewise endowed with greater gifts of grace.\"
\n[I.q.62.a.6.sc] Sed contra est quod Magister dicit, III distinct. II Sentent., quod angeli qui natura magis subtiles, et sapientia amplius perspicaces creati sunt, hi etiam majoribus gratiae muneribus præditi sunt.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.co] It is reasonable to suppose that gifts of graces and perfection of beatitude were bestowed on the angels according to the degree of their natural gifts. The reason for this can be drawn from two sources.
\nFirst of all, on the part of God, Who, in the order of His wisdom, established various degrees in the angelic nature. Now as the angelic nature was made by God for attaining grace and beatitude, so likewise the grades of the angelic nature seem to be ordained for the various degrees of grace and glory; just as when, for example, the builder chisels the stones for building a house, from the fact that he prepares some more artistically and more fittingly than others, it is clear that he is setting them apart for the more ornate part of the house. So it seems that God destined those angels for greater gifts of grace and fuller beatitude, whom He made of a higher nature.
\nSecondly, the same is evident on the part of the angel. The angel is not a compound of different natures, so that the inclination of the one thwarts or retards the tendency of the other; as happens in man, in whom the movement of his intellective part is either retarded or thwarted by the inclination of his sensitive part. But when there is nothing to retard or thwart it, nature is moved with its whole energy. So it is reasonable to suppose that the angels who had a higher nature, were turned to God more mightily and efficaciously. The same thing happens in men, since greater grace and glory are bestowed according to the greater earnestness of their turning to God. Hence it appears that the angels who had the greater natural powers, had the more grace and glory.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.co] Respondeo dicendum, quod rationabile est quod secundum gradum naturalium an- Edit. Nicolaï habet: « gradum naturalem. » Ita edit. Nicolaï et Patav., quibus adstipulatur Garcia; cod. Alcan., edit. Rom. aliæque: « propter finem. » Cujus quidem ratio ex duobus accipi potest. Primo quidem ex parte ipsius Dei, qui per ordinem suæ sapientiae diversos gradus in angelica natura constituit. Sicut autem natura angelica facta est a Deo ad gratiam et beatitudinem consequendam, ita etiam gradus naturæ angelicæ ad diversos gradus gratiae et gloriæ ordinari videntur; ut puta, si aedificator lapides polit ad construendam domum, ex hoc ipso quod aliquos pulchrius et decentius aptat, videtur eos ad honoratiorem partem domus ordinare. Sic igitur videtur quod Deus angelos quos altioris naturæ fecit, ad majora gratiarum dona et ampliore beatitudinem ordinaverit. Secundo apparet idem ex parte ipsius angeli; non enim angelus est compositus ex diversis naturis, ut inclinatio unius naturæ impetum alterius impediat aut retardet, sicut in homine accidit, in quo motus intellectivæ partis aut retardatur aut impeditur ex inclinatione partis sensitivæ. Quando autem non est aliquid quod retardet aut impediat, natura in id secundum totam suam virtuem movetur. Et ideo rationabile est quod angeli qui meliorem naturam habuerunt, etiam fortius et efficacius ad Deum sint conversi. Hoc autem etiam in hominibus contingit; quia secundum intentionem conversionis in Deum datur major gratia et gloria. Unde videtur quod angeli qui habuerunt meliora naturalia habuerunt plus de gratia et gloria.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.ad.1] As grace comes of God's will alone, so likewise does the nature of the angel: and as God's will ordained nature for grace, so did it ordain the various degrees of nature to the various degrees of grace.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.ad.1] Ad primum ergo dicendum, quod sicut gratia est ex mera Dei voluntate, ita etiam et natura angeli; et sicut naturam Dei voluntas ordinavit ad gratiam, ita et gradus naturae ad gradus gratiae.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.ad.2] The acts of the rational creature are from the creature itself; whereas nature is immediately from God. Accordingly it seems rather that grace is bestowed according to degree of nature than according to works.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.ad.2] Ad secundum dicendum, quod actus rationalis creaturæ sunt ab ipsa; sed natura est immediate a Deo. Unde magis videtur quod gratia detur secundum naturæ quam ex operibus.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.ad.3] Diversity of natural gifts is in one way in the angels, who are themselves different specifically; and in quite another way in men, who differ only numerically. For specific difference is on account of the end; while numerical difference is because of the matter. Furthermore, there is something in man which can thwart or impede the movement of his intellective nature; but not in the angels. Consequently the argument is not the same for both.
\n[I.q.62.a.6.ad.3] Ad tertium dicendum, quod diversitas naturalium aliter est in angelis, qui differunt specie, et aliter in hominibus, qui differunt solo numero. Differentia enim secundum speciem est propter formam; sed differentia secundum numerum est propter materiam. Juxta Nicetam Græcum ante Christi resurrectionem nec fuere stabiles angeli in gratia, nec divinam essentiam viderunt. In homine etiam est aliquid quod potest impedire vel retardare motum intellectivæ naturæ, non autem in angelis. Unde non est eadem ratio de utroque.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.arg.1] It would seem that natural knowledge and love do not remain in the beatified angels. For it is said (1 Corinthians 13:10): \"When that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.\" But natural love and knowledge are imperfect in comparison with beatified knowledge and love. Therefore, in beatitude, natural knowledge and love cease.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.arg.1] Ad septimum sic proceditur. 1. Videtur quod in angelis beatis non remaneat cognitio et dilectio naturalis. Quia, ut dicitur I Cor., xiii, 10: Cum venerit quod perfectum est, evacuabitur quod ex parte est. Sed dilectio et cognitio naturalis est imperfecta respectu cognitionis et dilectionis beatæ. Ergo, adveniente beatitudine, naturalis cognitio et dilectio cessat.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.arg.2] Further, where one suffices, another is superfluous. But the knowledge and love of glory suffice for the beatified angels. Therefore it would be superfluous for their natural knowledge and love to remain.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.arg.2] 2. Præterea, ubi unum sufficit, aliud superflue existit. Sed sufficit in angelis beatis cognitio et dilectio beata. Superfluum ergo esset quod remaneret in eis cognitio et dilectio naturalis.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.arg.3] Further, the same faculty has not two simultaneous acts, as the same line cannot, at the same end, be terminated in two points. But the beatified angels are always exercising their beatified knowledge and love; for, as is said Ethic. i, 8, happiness consists not in habit, but in act. Therefore there can never be natural knowledge and love in the angels.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.arg.3] 3. Præterea, eadem potentia non habet simul duos actus, sicut nec una linea terminatur ex eadem parte ad duo puncta. Sed angeli beati sunt semper in actu cognitionis et dilectionis beatæ; felicitas enim non est secundum habitum, sed secundum actum, ut dicitur in I Ethic., cap. viii. Ergo nun-quam in angelis potest esse cognitio et dilectio naturalis.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.sc] So long as a nature endures, its operation remains. But beatitude does not destroy nature, since it is its perfection. Therefore it does not take away natural knowledge and love.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.sc] Sed contra, quamdiu manet natura aliqua, manet operatio ejus. Sed beatitudo non tollit naturam, cum sit perfectio ejus. Ergo non tollit naturalem cognitionem et dilectionem.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.co] Natural knowledge and love remain in the angels. For as principles of operations are mutually related, so are the operations themselves. Now it is manifest that nature is to beatitude as first to second; because beatitude is superadded to nature. But the first must ever be preserved in the second. Consequently nature must be preserved in beatitude: and in like manner the act of nature must be preserved in the act of beatitude.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.co] Respondeo dicendum, quod in angelis beatis remanet cognitio et dilectio naturalis; sicut enim se habent principia operationum ad invicem, ita se habent et operationes ipsæ. Manifestum est autem quod natura ad beatitudinem comparatur sicut primum ad secundum, quia beatitudo naturæ additur. Semper autem oportet salvari primum in secundo. Unde oportet quod natura salvetur in beatitudine; et similiter oportet quod in actu beatitudinis salvetur actus naturæ. S. Thomas angelos tenet gratiam esse consecutos secundum quantitatem suorum naturalium, non isto Pelagiano sensu quod naturales angelorum perfectiones dispositiones ad gratiam et gloriam
\n[I.q.62.a.7.ad.1] The advent of a perfection removes the opposite imperfection. Now the imperfection of nature is not opposed to the perfection of beatitude, but underlies it; as the imperfection of the power underlies the perfection of the form, and the power is not taken away by the form, but the privation which is opposed to the form. In the same way, the imperfection of natural knowledge is not opposed to the perfection of the knowledge in glory; for nothing hinders us from knowing a thing through various mediums, as a thing may be known at the one time through a probable medium and through a demonstrative one. In like manner, an angel can know God by His essence, and this appertains to his knowledge of glory; and at the same time he can know God by his own essence, which belongs to his natural knowledge.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.ad.1] Ad primum ergo dicendum, quod perfectio adveniens tollit imperfectionem sibi oppositam. Imperfectio autem naturæ non opponitur perfectioni beatitudinis, sed substernitur ei sicut imperfectio potentiae substernitur perfectioni formæ; et non tollitur potentia per formam, sed tollitur privatio, quæ opponitur formæ. Et similiter etiam imperfectio cognitionis naturalis non opponitur perfectioni cognitionis gloriæ: nihil enim prohibet simul aliquid cognoscere per diversa media, sicut simul potest aliquid cognosci per medium probabile et demonstrativum. Et similiter potest angelus simul Deum cognoscere per essentiam Dei, quod pertinet ad cognitionem gloriæ, et per essentiam propriam, quod pertinet ad cognitionem naturæ.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.ad.2] All things which make up beatitude are sufficient of themselves. But in order for them to exist, they presuppose the natural gifts; because no beatitude is self-subsisting, except the uncreated beatitude.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.ad.2] Ad secundum dicendum, quod ea quæ sunt beatitudinis, per se sufficiunt; sed ad hoc quod sint, præexigunt ea quæ sunt naturæ; quia nulla beatitudo est per se subsistens nisi beatitudo increata.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.ad.3] There cannot be two operations of the one faculty at the one time, except the one be ordained to the other. But natural knowledge and love are ordained to the knowledge and love of glory. Accordingly there is nothing to hinder natural knowledge and love from existing in the angel conjointly with those of glory.
\n[I.q.62.a.7.ad.3] Ad tertium dicendum, quod duæ operationes non possunt esse simul unius potentiae, nisi una ad aliam ordinetur. Cognitio autem et dilectio naturalis ordinantur ad cognitionem et dilectionem gloriæ. Unde nihil prohibet in angelo esse et cognitionem et dilectionem naturalem, et cognitionem et dilectionem gloriæ.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.arg.1] It would seem that a beatified angel can sin. For, as was said above (Article 7), beatitude does not do away with nature. But it is of the very notion of created nature, that it can fail. Therefore a beatified angel can sin.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.arg.1] Ad octavum sic proceditur. 4. Videtur quod angelus beatus peccare possit. Beati-tudo enim non tollit naturam, ut dictum est. Sed de ratione naturæ creatæ est quod possit deficere. Ergo angelus beatus potest peccare.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.arg.2] Further, the rational powers are referred to opposites, as the Philosopher observes (Metaph. iv, text. 3). But the will of the angel in beatitude does not cease to be rational. Therefore it is inclined towards good and evil.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.arg.2] 2. Præterea, potestates rationales sunt ad opposita, ut Philosophus dicit IV Metaph., text. 2. Sed voluntas angeli beati non desi-nit esse rationalis. Ergo se habet ad bonum et malum.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.arg.3] Further, it belongs to the liberty of free-will for man to be able to choose good or evil. But the freedom of will is not lessened in the beatified angels. Therefore they can sin.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.arg.3] 3. Præterea, ad libertatem arbitrii pertinet, quod homo possit eligere bonum et malum. Sed libertas arbitrii non minuitur in angelis beatis. Ergo possunt peccare. fuerint, sed eo sensu quod gratuito Deus hoc illis concesserit. Cæterum ante suam conversionem om-nibus, juxta Richardum, æqualia supernaturalia, inæqualia naturalia fuerunt.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.sc] Augustine says (Gen. ad lit. xi) that \"there is in the holy angels that nature which cannot sin.\" Therefore the holy angels cannot sin.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.sc] Sed contra est quod Augustinus dicit: Super Genes. ad litt., lib. XI, c. vii, col. 433, t. 3, quod illa natura quæ peccare non potest, in sanctis angelis est. Ergo sancti angeli peccare non possunt.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.co] The beatified angels cannot sin. The reason for this is, because their beatitude consists in seeing God through His essence. Now, God's essence is the very essence of goodness. Consequently the angel beholding God is disposed towards God in the same way as anyone else not seeing God is to the common form of goodness. Now it is impossible for any man either to will or to do anything except aiming at what is good; or for him to wish to turn away from good precisely as such. Therefore the beatified angel can neither will nor act, except as aiming towards God. Now whoever wills or acts in this manner cannot sin. Consequently the beatified angel cannot sin.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.co] Respondeo dicendum, quod angeli beati peccare non possunt. Cujus ratio est quia eorum beatitudo in hoc consistit quod per essentiam Deum vident. Essentia autem Dei est ipsa essentia bonitatis. Unde hoc modo se habet angelus videns Deum ad ipsum Deum, sicut se habet quicumque non videns Deum ad communem rationem boni. Impossibile est autem quod aliquis quidquam velit vel operetur, nisi attendens ad bonum, vel quod velit divertere a bono, inquantum hujusmodi. Angelus igitur beatus non potest velle vel agere, nisi attendens ad Deum: sic autem volens vel agens non potest peccare. Unde angelus beatus nullo modo peccare potest.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.ad.1] Created good, considered in itself, can fail. But from its perfect union with the uncreated good, such as is the union of beatitude, it is rendered unable to sin, for the reason already alleged.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.ad.1] Ad primum ergo dicendum, quod bonum creatum in se consideratum deficere potest; sed ex conjunctione perfecta ad bonum increatum, qualis est conjunctione beatitudinis, adipiscitur quod peccare non possit, ratione jam dicta.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.ad.2] The rational powers are referred to opposites in the things to which they are not inclined naturally; but as to the things whereunto they have a natural tendency, they are not referred to opposites. For the intellect cannot but assent to naturally known principles; in the same way, the will cannot help clinging to good, formally as good; because the will is naturally ordained to good as to its proper object. Consequently the will of the angels is referred to opposites, as to doing many things, or not doing them. But they have no tendency to opposites with regard to God Himself, Whom they see to be the very nature of goodness; but in all things their aim is towards God, which ever alternative they choose, that is not sinful.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.ad.2] Ad secundum dicendum, quod virtutes rationales se habent ad opposita in illis ad quæ non ordinantur naturaliter; sed quantum ad illa ad quæ naturaliter ordinantur, non se habent ad opposita. Intellectus enim non potest non assentire principiis naturaliter notis: et similiter voluntas non potest non adhærere bono, inquantum est bonum, quia in bonum naturaliter ordinatur sicut in suum objectum. Voluntas igitur in angelis se habet ad opposita, quantum ad multa facienda vel non facienda; sed quantum ad ipsum Deum, quem vident esse ipsam essentiam bonitatis, non se habent ad opposita; sed secundum ipsum ad omnia diriguntur, quodcumque oppositorum eligant, quod sine peccato est.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.ad.3] Free-will in its choice of means to an end is disposed just as the intellect is to conclusions. Now it is evident that it belongs to the power of the intellect to be able to proceed to different conclusions, according to given principles; but for it to proceed to some conclusion by passing out of the order of the principles, comes of its own defect. Hence it belongs to the perfection of its liberty for the free-will to be able to choose between opposite things, keeping the order of the end in view; but it comes of the defect of liberty for it to choose anything by turning away from the order of the end; and this is to sin. Hence there is greater liberty of will in the angels, who cannot sin, than there is in ourselves, who can sin.
\n[I.q.62.a.8.ad.3] Ad tertium dicendum, quod liberum arbitrium sic se habet ad eligendum ea quæ sunt ad finem, sicut se habet intellectus ad conclusiones. Manifestum est autem quod ad virtutem intellectus pertinet ut in diversas conclusiones procedere possit secundum principia data; sed quod in aliquam conclusionem procedat prætermittendo ordinem principiorum, hoc est ex defectu ipsius. Unde quod liberum arbitrium diversa eligere possit servato ordine finis, hoc pertinet ad perfectionem libertatis ejus; sed quod eligat aliquid divertendo ab ordine finis, quod est peccare, hoc pertinet ad defectum libertatis. Unde major libertas arbitrii est in angelis qui peccare non possunt, quam in nobis qui peccare possumus.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.arg.1] It would seem that the beatified angels can advance in beatitude. For charity is the principle of merit. But there is perfect charity in the angels. Therefore the beatified angels can merit. Now, as merit increases, the reward of beatitude increases. Therefore the beatified angels can progress in beatitude.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.arg.1] Ad nonum sic proceditur. 4. Videtur quod angeli beati in beatitudine proficere possint. Charitas enim est principium merendi. Sed in angelis est perfecta charitas. Ergo angeli beati possunt mereri. Crescente autem merito, crescit et præmium beatitudinis. Ergo angeli beati in beatitudine proficere possunt.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.arg.2] Further, Augustine says (De Doctr. Christ. i) that \"God makes use of us for our own gain, and for His own goodness. The same thing happens to the angels, whom He uses for spiritual ministrations\"; since \"they are all [Vulgate: 'Are they not all . . .?'] ministering spirits, sent to minister for them who shall receive the inheritance of salvation\" (Hebrews 1:14). This would not be for their profit were they not to merit thereby, nor to advance to beatitude. It remains, then, that the beatified angels can merit, and can advance in beatitude.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.arg.2] 2. Præterea, Augustinus dicit in lib. I De doctr. christ., cap. xxxii, col. 32, t. 3, quod « Deus utitur nobis ad nostram utilitatem et ad suam bonitatem, » et similiter angelis, quibus utitur in ministeriis spiritualibus, cum sint administratorii spiritus in ministerium missi propter eos qui hereditatem capiunt* salutis, ut dicitur Hebr., i, 14. *Capient. Non autem hoc esset ad eorum utilitatem, si per hoc non mererentur, nec in beatitudine proficerent. Relinquitur ergo quod angeli beati et mereri et in beatitudine proficere possunt.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.arg.3] Further, it argues imperfection for anyone not occupying the foremost place not to be able to advance. But the angels are not in the highest degree of beatitude. Therefore if unable to ascend higher, it would appear that there is imperfection and defect in them; which is not admissible.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.arg.3] 3. Præterea, ad imperfectionem pertinet quod ille qui non est in summo, non possit proficere. Sed angeli non sunt in summo. Si ergo ad majus proficere non possunt, videtur quod in eis sit imperfectio et defectus, quod est inconveniens.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.sc] Merit and progress belong to this present condition of life. But angels are not wayfarers travelling towards beatitude, they are already in possession of beatitude. Consequently the beatified angels can neither merit nor advance in beatitude.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.sc] Sed contra est quod mereri et proficere pertinent ad statum viæ. Sed angeli non sunt viatores, sed comprehensores: ergo utitur, non ad ejus sed ad nostram utilitatem refertur, ad ejus autem tantummodo bonitatem. » In libro De triplici Magdalena, Faber Stapulensis angelos beatos posse peccare docet, sive beatitudinem amittant illo peccato, sive non. angeli beati non possunt mereri, nec in beatitudine proficere.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.co] In every movement the mover's intention is centered upon one determined end, to which he intends to lead the movable subject; because intention looks to the end, to which infinite progress is repugnant. Now it is evident, since the rational creature cannot of its own power attain to its beatitude, which consists in the vision of God, as is clear from what has gone before (12, 4), that it needs to be moved by God towards its beatitude. Therefore there must be some one determined thing to which every rational creature is directed as to its last end.
\nNow this one determinate object cannot, in the vision of God, consist precisely in that which is seen; for the Supreme Truth is seen by all the blessed in various degrees: but it is on the part of the mode of vision, that diverse terms are fixed beforehand by the intention of Him Who directs towards the end. For it is impossible that as the rational creature is led on to the vision of the Supreme Essence, it should be led on in the same way to the supreme mode of vision, which is comprehension, for this belongs to God only; as is evident from what was said above (12, 7; 14, 3). But since infinite efficacy is required for comprehending God, while the creature's efficacy in beholding is only finite; and since every finite being is in infinite degrees removed from the infinite; it comes to pass that the rational creature understands God more or less clearly according to infinite degrees. And as beatitude consists in vision, so the degree of vision lies in a determinate mode of the vision.
\nTherefore every rational creature is so led by God to the end of its beatitude, that from God's predestination it is brought even to a determinate degree of beatitude. Consequently, when that degree is once secured, it cannot pass to a higher degree.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.co] Respondeo dicendum, quod in unoquoque motu motoris intentio fertur in aliquid determinatum, ad quod mobile perducere intendit. Intentio enim est de fine, cui repugnat processus in infinitum. Manifestum est autem quod, cum creatura rationalis per suam virtutem consequi non possit suam beatitudinem, quae in visione Dei consistit, ut ex superioribus patet, indiget ut ad beatitudinem a Deo moveatur. Oportet igitur quod sit aliquid determinatum, ad quod quælibet creatura rationalis dirigatur, sicut in ultimum finem. Et hoc quidem determinatum non potest esse in divina visione quantum ad ipsum quod videtur, quia summa veritas ab omnibus beatis secundum diversos gradus conspicitur; sed quantum ad modum visionis præfigitur diversimode terminus ex intentione dirigentis in finem. Non enim possibile est quod sicut rationalis creatura perducitur ad videndum summam essentiam, ita perducatur ad summum modum visionis, qui est comprehensio; hic enim modus soli Deo competere potest, ut ex supra dictis patet. Sed cum infinita efficacia requiratur ad Deum comprehendenum, creaturæ vero efficacia in videndo non possit esse nisi finita, ab infinito autem finitum quodlibet infinitis gradibus distet; infinitis modis contingit creaturam rationalem intelligere Deum, vel clarius vel minus clare. Et sicut beatitudo consistit in ipsa visione, ita gradus beatitudinis in certo modo visionis. Sic igitur unaquæque creatura rationalis a Deo perducitur ad finem beatitudinis, ut etiam ad determinatum gradum beatitudinis perducatur ex prædestina-tione Dei. Unde, consecuto illo gradu, ad altiorem transire non potest.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.ad.1] Merit belongs to a subject which is moving towards its end. Now the rational creature is moved towards its end, not merely passively, but also by working actively. If the end is within the power of the rational creature, then its action is said to procure the end; as man acquires knowledge by reflection: but if the end be beyond its power, and is looked for from another, then the action will be meritorious of such end. But what is already in the ultimate term is not said to be moved, but to have been moved. Consequently, to merit belongs to the imperfect charity of this life; whereas perfect charity does not merit but rather enjoys the reward. Even as in acquired habits, the operation preceding the habit is productive of the habit; but the operation from an acquired habit is both perfect and enjoyable. In the same way the act of perfect charity has no quality of merit, but belongs rather to the perfection of the reward.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.ad.1] Ad primum ergo dicendum, quod mereri est ejus quod movetur ad finem. Movetur autem ad finem creatura rationalis non solum patiendo, sed etiam operando. Et si quidem finis ille subsit virtuti rationalis creaturæ, operatio illa dicetur acquisitiva illius finis, sicut homo meditando acquirit scientiam. Si vero finis non sit in potestate ejus, sed ab alio expectetur, operatio erit meri-toria finis. Ei autem quod est in ultimo termino, non convenit moveri, sed mutatum esse. Unde charitatis imperfectæ, quæ est viæ, est mereri; charitatis autem perfectæ non est mereri, sed præmio frui; sicut et in habitibus acquisitis operatio præcedens habitum est acquisitiva habitus; quæ vero est ex habitu jam acquisito, est operatio jam perfecta cum delectatione. Et similiter actus charitatis perfectæ non habet rationem meriti, sed magis deest de perfectione præmii.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.ad.2] A thing can be termed useful in two ways.
\nFirst of all, as being on the way to an end; and so the merit of beatitude is useful.
\nSecondly, as the part is useful for the whole; as the wall for a house. In this way the angelic ministerings are useful for the beatified angels, inasmuch as they are a part of their beatitude; for to pour out acquired perfection upon others is of the nature of what is perfect, considered as perfect.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.ad.2] Ad secundum dicendum, quod aliquid dicitur utile dupliciter. Uno modo sicut quod est via ad finem; et sic utile est meritum beatitudinis. Alio modo sicut pars est utilis ad totum, ut paries ad domum; et hoc modo ministeria angelorum sunt utilia angelis beatis, inquantum sunt quædam pars beatitudinis ipsorum. Diffundere enim perfectionem habitam in alia, hoc est de ratione perfecti, inquantum est perfectum.
\n[I.q.62.a.9.ad.3] Although a beatified angel is not absolutely in the highest degree of beatitude, yet, in his own regard he is in the highest degree, according to Divine predestination. Nevertheless the joy of the angels can be increased with regard to the salvation of such as are saved by their ministrations, according to Luke 15:10: \"There is [Vulg.'shall be'] joy before the angels of God upon one sinner doing penance.\" Such joy belongs to their accidental reward, which can be increased unto judgment day. Hence some writers say that they can merit as to their accidental reward. But it is better to say that the Blessed can in no wise merit without being at the same time a wayfarer and a comprehensor; like Christ, Who alone was such. For the Blessed acquire such joy from the virtue of their beatitude, rather than merit it.
\nThe Summa Theologica of St. Thomas AquinasSecond and Revised Edition, 1920Literally translated by Fathers of the English Dominican ProvinceOnline Edition Copyright © 2009 by Kevin Knight Nihil Obstat. F. Innocentius Apap, O.P., S.T.M., Censor. Theol.Imprimatur. Edus. Canonicus Surmont, Vicarius Generalis. Westmonasterii.APPROBATIO ORDINISNihil Obstat. F. Raphael Moss, O.P., S.T.L. and F. Leo Moore, O.P., S.T.L.Imprimatur. F. Beda Jarrett, O.P., S.T.L., A.M., Prior Provincialis AngliæMARIÆ IMMACULATÆ - SEDI SAPIENTIÆ
\n[I.q.62.a.9.ad.3] Ad tertium dicendum, quod, licet angelus beatus non sit in summo gradu beatitudinis simpliciter, est tamen in ultimo quantum ad seipsum secundum prædestinationem divi-nam. Potest tamen augeri angelorum gaudium de salute eorum qui per ipsorum ministerium salvantur, secundum illud Lucæ, xv, 10: Gaudium est* angelis Dei super uno peccatore pœnitentiam agente. Sed hoc gaudium ad præmium accidentale pertinet; quod quidem augeri potest usque ad diem judicii. Unde quidam dicunt quod quantum ad præmium accidentale etiam mereri possunt. Sed melius est ut dicatur quod nullo modo aliquis beatus mereri potest, nisi sit simul viator, ut Christus, qui solus fuit viator et comprehensor. Prædictum enim gaudium magis acquiritur ex virtute beatitudinis quam illud mereantur.
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