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Whether there are Five Notions?

Writer's picture: Christian B. WagnerChristian B. Wagner

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cf., Sent.I.D26.Q2.A3, Sent.I.D28.Q1.A1, QDePot.Q9.A9.Rep21, QDePot.Q9.A9.Rep5 (Reply to 5th in second round, i.e., objection 27), QDePot.Q10.A5.Rep12, CT.BookI.C57sqq


Here, we ask about how many notions there are, after establishing that they are in the above article. This article becomes quite controversial in later theology, each theologian numbering their positions differently, which is actually why the next article becomes necessary. Thus, we must be clear that by "notion," we are not debating over whether something is predicated or such and such a person (for, in most cases, this is simply conceded), rather, we are debating over such a predication is that whereby the person is. 


In order to demonstrate the number, the begins by reminding us that a "notion" is the propria ratio cognoscendi divinam personam. Thus, the "notion" is going to involve that which formally distinguishes the Divine Persons. Now, this is the origin of the person. Further, origin both as a terminus a quo (terminus from which) and terminus ad quem (terminus to which). Thus, a notion can either be constituted as originating or originated. 


On top of this, St. Thomas adds two more requirements (which help us in restricting the number of notions),

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