Celebrating the 750th Anniversary of the Death of St. Thomas Aquinas: A Roadmap to Wisdom
Today, the world commemorates the 750th anniversary of the death of Saint Thomas Aquinas, a towering figure in Christian theology and philosophy. Known for his encyclopedic knowledge and deep insights, St. Thomas left behind a legacy that continues to inspire and challenge scholars and believers alike.
Despite living in an age without modern technology, St. Thomas produced an astonishing amount of work, with thousands of citations from biblical, Christian, and non-Christian sources. His most famous works, the Summa Theologiae and Summa Contra Gentiles, are still studied and revered for their structured and thoughtful presentation of complex theological concepts.
But beyond his intellectual prowess, St. Thomas also provided a roadmap for how individuals can grow in wisdom. In a reflection on the growth of Christ, he outlined four essential steps: listening willingly, seeking diligently, responding prudently, and meditating attentively. These steps, he believed, were crucial for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding and knowledge.
To listen willingly, St. Thomas emphasized the importance of humility and openness to learning from others. He pointed to the example of Mary and Joseph finding Jesus in the Temple, listening and asking questions to gain wisdom. Seeking wisdom from those wiser than us, ancient writings, creation, and sharing knowledge with others were also highlighted as key ways to grow in wisdom.
Responding prudently, according to St. Thomas, involves knowing when to speak and when to listen, tailoring one’s response to the intellectual capacity of both the speaker and the listener. Finally, meditating attentively, like the Virgin Mary who pondered the mysteries of God in her heart, allows for a deeper understanding and internalization of wisdom.
As we reflect on the life and teachings of St. Thomas Aquinas on this significant anniversary, we are reminded of the enduring value of seeking wisdom, grace, and human fellowship in our own lives. May we strive to emulate his example and that of the Blessed Virgin Mary as we continue on our own journey towards greater understanding and knowledge.