Eschatology 6

Heaven

Described as a place where we may see God 'face to face' and is related to the concept of the beatific vision.

Beatific Vision

Aquinas' view of heaven where one experiences direct union with God, seeing His essence without intermediaries.

New Jerusalem

The heavenly city where there is joy and contentment, and where God lives with his people.

Telos

The ultimate aim or purpose; in the context of Aquinas, it refers to the perfect happiness attained through union with God.

Divine Essence

The perfect nature of God that is fully grasped in the beatific vision.

Perfect Happiness

Achieved only through direct union with God, according to Aquinas, and not through created things.

Aquinas' Argument on Happiness

Man cannot be perfectly happy while still desiring something; true happiness can only be found in the infinite and perfect, which is God.

Psalm 36:9

'In thy light shall we see light'; quoted by Aquinas in reference to the vision of God.

Eternity in Heaven

A concept that raises questions about desirability, with Aquinas arguing that heaven’s nature differs from earthly experiences.

Alignment of Will

In heaven, the will perfectly aligns with God, allowing for perfect love and eliminating boredom.