Single Idea 11193

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / E. Nature of Metaphysics / 1. Nature of Metaphysics]

Full Idea

Understanding begins with the notion of being and essence.

Gist of Idea

Understanding begins with the notion of being and essence

Source

Avicenna (Abu Ibn Sina) (Commentary on the Metaphysics [1022], 1/6), quoted by Thomas Aquinas - De Ente et Essentia (Being and Essence) p.91

Book Reference

Aquinas,Thomas: 'Selected Philosophical Writings', ed/tr. McDermott,Timothy [OUP 1993], p.91


A Reaction

I think I might put it that wisdom is only really possible for people who aim to grasp being and essence in some way. I see no prospect of understanding 'being', and even essences may be forever just beyond our grasp.