The Theology of Fear in Thomas Aquinas's Summa Theologiae

The Theology of Fear in Thomas Aquinass Summa Theologiae excavates and explores Thomas Aquinass comparatively expansive theology of fear that he develops in the Summa theologiae. Whereas many classify fear under a single category (e.g., an emotion, passion, or sentiment), Thomas specifies seven major categories of fear, including the passion and gift of fear. And while many classify courage as the lone virtue indexed to fear, Thomas argues that courage and perseverance perfect it, adding that a Spirit-empowered gift of courage also perfects human fears so that human beings may attain and remain in blessedness. A work in retrieval theology designed for Thomas and non-Thomas scholars operating within the interactions of theology and psychology, this book argues that understanding this theologys motivations, internal coherence, and merits is necessary for understanding Thomass instruction for beginners in the Christian religion and its ongoing relevance for today.