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3 <title>Aquinas: John, Ch. 9</title> 7 <title>Aquinas: John, Ch. 9</title>
4 </head> 8 </head>
5 <body style=text-align:justify><blockquote> 9 <body style="text-align:justify">
6 <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-size: 60pt">9</span> 10 <blockquote>
7 <p align=center><B>LECTURE I</B> 11 <p style="text-align: center"><span style=
8 <BLOCKQUOTE><p>1 As he passed by, he saw a 12 "font-size: 60pt">9</span></p>
9 man blind from his birth. 2 And his disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, 13 <p align="center"><b>LECTURE I</b></p>
10 this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" 3 Jesus answered, "It was not 14 <blockquote>
11 that this man sinned, or his parent, but that the works of God might be made 15 <p>1 As he passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth. 2 And his
12 manifest in him. 4 We must work the works of him who sent me, while it is day; 16 disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents,
13 night comes, when no one can work. 5 As long as I am in the world, I am the 17 that he was born blind?" 3 Jesus answered, "It was not that this
14 light of the world." 6 As he said this, he spat on the ground and made clay of 18 man sinned, or his parent, but that the works of God might be made
15 the spittle and anointed the man's eyes with the clay, 7 saying to him, "Go, 19 manifest in him. 4 We must work the works of him who sent me, while
16 wash in the pool of Siloam" (which means Sent). So he went and washed and came 20 it is day; night comes, when no one can work. 5 As long as I am in
17 back seeing.<a href="#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1"><b>[1]</b></a></BLOCKQUOTE> 21 the world, I am the light of the world." 6 As he said this, he spat
18 22 on the ground and made clay of the spittle and anointed the man's
19 <p>1293 After showing the 23 eyes with the clay, 7 saying to him, "Go, wash in the pool of
20 enlightening power of his teaching by his own words [cf. 1 118], our Lord 24 Siloam" (which means Sent). So he went and washed and came back
21 confirms this by his action, when he gives sight to one physically blind. In 25 seeing.<a href="#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" id=
22 regard to this three things are presented: first, the man's infirmity; 26 "_ftnref1"><b>[1]</b></a></p>
23 secondly, his healing (v 6); thirdly, a discussion among the Jews about this 27 </blockquote>
24 health (v 8). In regard to the first he does two things: first, the man's 28 <p>1293 After showing the enlightening power of his teaching by his
25 infirmity is mentioned; secondly, we see an inquiry about its cause (v 2). 29 own words [cf. 1 118], our Lord confirms this by his action, when
26 30 he gives sight to one physically blind. In regard to this three
27 <p>1294 It should be noted in 31 things are presented: first, the man's infirmity; secondly, his
28 regard to the first that Jesus hid himself and left the temple, and while 32 healing (v 6); thirdly, a discussion among the Jews about this
29 passing by he saw this blind man, as he passed by, he saw a man blind from his 33 health (v 8). In regard to the first he does two things: first, the
30 birth. Three things are considered here. First, he passed by to avoid the anger 34 man's infirmity is mentioned; secondly, we see an inquiry about its
31 of the Jews: "Do not kindle the coals of a sinner lest you be burned in his 35 cause (v 2).</p>
32 flaming fire" (Sir 8:10). Secondly, he wanted to try and soften their hardness 36 <p>1294 It should be noted in regard to the first that Jesus hid
33 of heart by working a miracle: "If I had not done among them the works which no 37 himself and left the temple, and while passing by he saw this blind
34 one else did, they would not have sin" (15:24). Thirdly, he went on his way in 38 man, as he passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth. Three
35 order to confirm his words by working a sign; for our Lord's works produce 39 things are considered here. First, he passed by to avoid the anger
36 faith in the things that he says: "He confirmed the message by the sign that 40 of the Jews: "Do not kindle the coals of a sinner lest you be
37 attended it" (Mk 16:20). 41 burned in his flaming fire" (Sir 8:10). Secondly, he wanted to try
38 42 and soften their hardness of heart by working a miracle: "If I had
39 <p>In 43 not done among them the works which no one else did, they would not
40 the mystical sense, according to Augustine, this blind man is the human race.<a 44 have sin" (15:24). Thirdly, he went on his way in order to confirm
41 href="#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2">[2]</a> 45 his words by working a sign; for our Lord's works produce faith in
42 Sin is a spiritual blindness: "Their wickedness blinded them" (Wis 2:21). The human race is blind from birth, because it contracted sin from his its 46 the things that he says: "He confirmed the message by the sign that
43 origin, for the blindness occurs through sin in the first man, from whom all of 47 attended it" (Mk 16:20).</p>
44 us draw our origin. We read, "We were by nature," by natural origin, "children 48 <p>In the mystical sense, according to Augustine, this blind man is
45 of wrath" (Eph 2:3). 49 the human race.<a href="#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2" id=
46 50 "_ftnref2">[2]</a> Sin is a spiritual blindness: "Their wickedness
47 <p>1295 Then (v2), the cause of 51 blinded them" (Wis 2:21). The human race is blind from birth,
48 this man's infirmity is discussed: first, the disciples ask about its cause; 52 because it contracted sin from his its origin, for the blindness
49 secondly, Christ explains it. 53 occurs through sin in the first man, from whom all of us draw our
50 54 origin. We read, "We were by nature," by natural origin, "children
51 <p>1296 In regard to the first, 55 of wrath" (Eph 2:3).</p>
52 three things are to be considered. The first is the reason for the disciples 56 <p>1295 Then (v2), the cause of this man's infirmity is discussed:
53 questioning Christ. According to Chrysostom, this was because Jesus, leaving 57 first, the disciples ask about its cause; secondly, Christ explains
54 the temple and seeing this blind man, looked at him intently, as though seeing 58 it.</p>
55 in him an opportunity to manifest his power. And so the disciples seeing him 59 <p>1296 In regard to the first, three things are to be considered.
56 look so intently at the blind man were impelled to question him.<a href="#_ftn3" 60 The first is the reason for the disciples questioning Christ.
57 name="_ftnref3">[3]</a> 61 According to Chrysostom, this was because Jesus, leaving the temple
58 62 and seeing this blind man, looked at him intently, as though seeing
59 <p>Secondly, 63 in him an opportunity to manifest his power. And so the disciples
60 we see the seriousness of the disciples, because they say, <b>Rabbi</b>, 64 seeing him look so intently at the blind man were impelled to
61 calling him Teacher, to indicate that they are questioning him in order to 65 question him.<a href="#_ftn3" name="_ftnref3" id=
62 learn. Thirdly, we see why they asked, <b>who sinned?</b> when they inquire 66 "_ftnref3">[3]</a></p>
63 into the reason for the man's blindness. 67 <p>Secondly, we see the seriousness of the disciples, because they
64 68 say, <b>Rabbi</b>, calling him Teacher, to indicate that they are
65 <p>It 69 questioning him in order to learn. Thirdly, we see why they asked,
66 must be said, according to Chrysostom, that because the Lord said to the 70 <b>who sinned?</b> when they inquire into the reason for the man's
67 paralytic, when he healed him, "See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing 71 blindness.</p>
68 worse befall you," the disciples thought that his infirmity was due to sin.<a 72 <p>It must be said, according to Chrysostom, that because the Lord
69 href="#_ftn4" name="_ftnref4">[4]</a> 73 said to the paralytic, when he healed him, "See, you are well! Sin
70 They also thought that every human illness arose from sin, as Eliphaz said: 74 no more, that nothing worse befall you," the disciples thought that
71 "Think now, who that was innocent ever perished?" (Jb 4:7). Therefore, they 75 his infirmity was due to sin.<a href="#_ftn4" name="_ftnref4" id=
72 asked whether he had been born blind on account of his own sin or that of his 76 "_ftnref4">[4]</a> They also thought that every human illness arose
73 parents. It does not seem to have been on account of his own sin, because no 77 from sin, as Eliphaz said: "Think now, who that was innocent ever
74 one sins before he is born, since souls do not exist before their bodies, nor 78 perished?" (Jb 4:7). Therefore, they asked whether he had been born
75 do they sin, as some mistakenly think: "Though they were not yet born and had 79 blind on account of his own sin or that of his parents. It does not
76 done nothing, either good or bad … not because of works but because of his 80 seem to have been on account of his own sin, because no one sins
77 call, she was told 'The elder will served the younger'" (Rom 9:11). Nor does it 81 before he is born, since souls do not exist before their bodies,
78 seem that he suffered on account of a sin of his parents, for we read: "The 82 nor do they sin, as some mistakenly think: "Though they were not
79 fathers shall not be put to death for their children, nor shall the children be 83 yet born and had done nothing, either good or bad &hellip; not
80 put to death for the fathers" (Deut 24:16). 84 because of works but because of his call, she was told 'The elder
81 85 will served the younger'" (Rom 9:11). Nor does it seem that he
82 <p>Note 86 suffered on account of a sin of his parents, for we read: "The
83 that people are punished with two kinds of punishment. One is spiritual and 87 fathers shall not be put to death for their children, nor shall the
84 concerns the soul; the other is bodily and concerns the body. A child is never 88 children be put to death for the fathers" (Deut 24:16).</p>
85 punished on account of his father with a spiritual punishment, because the soul 89 <p>Note that people are punished with two kinds of punishment. One
86 of a child is not from his father but from God: "All souls are mine," that is, 90 is spiritual and concerns the soul; the other is bodily and
87 by creation, "the soul of the father as well as the soul of the child is mine: 91 concerns the body. A child is never punished on account of his
88 the soul that sins shall be punished" [Ez 18:4]. Augustine also says this in 92 father with a spiritual punishment, because the soul of a child is
89 one of his letters.<a href="#_ftn5" name="_ftnref5">[5]</a> 93 not from his father but from God: "All souls are mine," that is, by
90 But a child is punished on account of his father with a bodily punishment, 94 creation, "the soul of the father as well as the soul of the child
91 since he is of his father as far as his body is concerned. This is expressly 95 is mine: the soul that sins shall be punished" [Ez 18:4]. Augustine
92 shown in Genesis (c 19) where when Sodom was destroyed the children of the 96 also says this in one of his letters.<a href="#_ftn5" name=
93 inhabitants of Sodom were killed on account of the sins of their parents. 97 "_ftnref5" id="_ftnref5">[5]</a> But a child is punished on account
94 Again, the Lord very often threatened to destroy the children of the Jews on 98 of his father with a bodily punishment, since he is of his father
95 account of the sins of their parents. 99 as far as his body is concerned. This is expressly shown in Genesis
96 100 (c 19) where when Sodom was destroyed the children of the
97 <p>1297 To understand why one 101 inhabitants of Sodom were killed on account of the sins of their
98 person is punished on account of the sins of another, we must realize that a 102 parents. Again, the Lord very often threatened to destroy the
99 punishment has two aspects: it is an injury and a remedy. Sometimes a part of 103 children of the Jews on account of the sins of their parents.</p>
100 the body is cut off to save the entire body. And a punishment of this kind 104 <p>1297 To understand why one person is punished on account of the
101 causes an injury insofar as a part is cut off, but it is a remedy insofar as it 105 sins of another, we must realize that a punishment has two aspects:
102 saves the body itself. Still, a doctor never cuts off a superior member to save 106 it is an injury and a remedy. Sometimes a part of the body is cut
103 one which is inferior, but the other way around. Now in human matters, the soul 107 off to save the entire body. And a punishment of this kind causes
104 is superior to the body, and the body is superior to external possessions. And 108 an injury insofar as a part is cut off, but it is a remedy insofar
105 so it never happens that someone is punished in his soul for the sake of his 109 as it saves the body itself. Still, a doctor never cuts off a
106 body, but rather he is punished in his body as a curing remedy for his soul. 110 superior member to save one which is inferior, but the other way
107 Therefore, God sometimes imposes physical punishments, or difficulties in 111 around. Now in human matters, the soul is superior to the body, and
108 external concerns, as a beneficial remedy for the soul. And then punishments of 112 the body is superior to external possessions. And so it never
109 this kind are not given just as injuries, but as healing remedies. Thus, the 113 happens that someone is punished in his soul for the sake of his
110 killing of the children of Sodom was for the good of their souls: not because 114 body, but rather he is punished in his body as a curing remedy for
111 they deserved it, but so they would not be punished more severely for 115 his soul. Therefore, God sometimes imposes physical punishments, or
112 increasing their sins in a life spent in imitating their parents. And in this 116 difficulties in external concerns, as a beneficial remedy for the
113 way some are often punished for the sins of their parents.<a href="#_ftn6" 117 soul. And then punishments of this kind are not given just as
114 name="_ftnref6">[6]</a> 118 injuries, but as healing remedies. Thus, the killing of the
115 119 children of Sodom was for the good of their souls: not because they
116 <p>1298 Then when he says, <b>Jesus 120 deserved it, but so they would not be punished more severely for
117 answered</b>, our Lord reveals the reason for the man's infirmity: first, he 121 increasing their sins in a life spent in imitating their parents.
118 excludes the reason they assumed; secondly, he mentions the real reason; and 122 And in this way some are often punished for the sins of their
119 thirdly, he explains it. 123 parents.<a href="#_ftn6" name="_ftnref6" id="_ftnref6">[6]</a></p>
120 124 <p>1298 Then when he says, <b>Jesus answered</b>, our Lord reveals
121 <p>1299 He excludes the reason 125 the reason for the man's infirmity: first, he excludes the reason
122 they assumed when he says, <b>it was not that this man sinned, or his parents</b>: 126 they assumed; secondly, he mentions the real reason; and thirdly,
123 for the disciples had assumed that this was the reason for his infirmity, as 127 he explains it.</p>
124 was said. But a contrary statement is found in Romans [3:23]: "All have sinned 128 <p>1299 He excludes the reason they assumed when he says, <b>it was
125 and are in need of God's glory." And again we read that sin has passed into all 129 not that this man sinned, or his parents</b>: for the disciples had
126 men from Adam. I answer to this that both the blind man and his parents did 130 assumed that this was the reason for his infirmity, as was said.
127 contract original sin and even added other actual sins during their live, for 131 But a contrary statement is found in Romans [3:23]: "All have
128 we read: "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not 132 sinned and are in need of God's glory." And again we read that sin
129 in us" (1 Jn 1:8). But when the Lord says, <b>it was not that this man sinned, 133 has passed into all men from Adam. I answer to this that both the
130 or his parents</b>, he means that his blindness did not come as a result of 134 blind man and his parents did contract original sin and even added
131 their sins. 135 other actual sins during their live, for we read: "If we say we
132 136 have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us" (1 Jn
133 <p>1300 He mentions the real 137 1:8). But when the Lord says, <b>it was not that this man sinned,
134 reason when he says, <b>but that the works of God might be made manifest in him</b>, 138 or his parents</b>, he means that his blindness did not come as a
135 for through the works of God we are led to a knowledge of him: "his invisible 139 result of their sins.</p>
136 nature has been clearly perceived in the things that have been made" (Rom 140 <p>1300 He mentions the real reason when he says, <b>but that the
137 1:20); "The very works which my Father has given me to perform…they bear 141 works of God might be made manifest in him</b>, for through the
138 witness to me" (5:36). But the knowledge of God is man's greatest good, since 142 works of God we are led to a knowledge of him: "his invisible
139 his happiness consists in this: "This is eternal life, that they know thee the 143 nature has been clearly perceived in the things that have been
140 only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou has sent" (17:3); "Let him who 144 made" (Rom 1:20); "The very works which my Father has given me to
141 glories glory in this, that he understands and knows me" (Jer 9:24). If, 145 perform&hellip;they bear witness to me" (5:36). But the knowledge
142 therefore, an infirmity occurs in order that God's works be manifested, and God 146 of God is man's greatest good, since his happiness consists in
143 is made known through this manifestation, it is clear that such bodily 147 this: "This is eternal life, that they know thee the only true God,
144 infirmities occur for a good purpose. 148 and Jesus Christ whom thou has sent" (17:3); "Let him who glories
145 149 glory in this, that he understands and knows me" (Jer 9:24). If,
146 <p>1301 It might seem that the 150 therefore, an infirmity occurs in order that God's works be
147 manifestation of God's works is not a sufficient reason for such an infirmity, 151 manifested, and God is made known through this manifestation, it is
148 especially since neither he nor his parents sinned. Therefore, some say that 152 clear that such bodily infirmities occur for a good purpose.</p>
149 the words <b>but that </b>do not indicate the reason but merely the sequence of 153 <p>1301 It might seem that the manifestation of God's works is not
150 events. The sense then being: the man was blind, and the works of God were 154 a sufficient reason for such an infirmity, especially since neither
151 manifested in his cure. But this does not seem to be reasonable; and so it is 155 he nor his parents sinned. Therefore, some say that the words
152 better to say that the reason is being given. For evil is twofold: the evil of 156 <b>but that</b> do not indicate the reason but merely the sequence
153 fault and the evil of punishment. Now God does not cause the evil of fault, but 157 of events. The sense then being: the man was blind, and the works
154 permits it; yet he would not permit it unless he intended some good from it. So 158 of God were manifested in his cure. But this does not seem to be
155 Augustine says in his <i>Enchiridion</i>: "God is so good that he would never 159 reasonable; and so it is better to say that the reason is being
156 permit any evil to occur, unless he was so powerful as to draw some good from 160 given. For evil is twofold: the evil of fault and the evil of
157 every evil."<a href="#_ftn7" name="_ftnref7">[7]</a> 161 punishment. Now God does not cause the evil of fault, but permits
158 Therefore, he allows certain sins to be committed because he intends some good; 162 it; yet he would not permit it unless he intended some good from
159 in this way, he allows the rage of tyrants so that martyrs may be crowned. Much 163 it. So Augustine says in his <i>Enchiridion</i>: "God is so good
160 more, therefore, should it be said that the evil of punishment, which he causes 164 that he would never permit any evil to occur, unless he was so
161 - as Amos (3:6) says: "Does evil befall a city, unless the Lord has done it?" - 165 powerful as to draw some good from every evil."<a href="#_ftn7"
162 is never applied except for the good he intends. And among these goods the best 166 name="_ftnref7" id="_ftnref7">[7]</a> Therefore, he allows certain
163 is that the works of God be manifested, and from them that God be known. 167 sins to be committed because he intends some good; in this way, he
164 Therefore, it is not unfitting if he sends afflictions or allows sins to be 168 allows the rage of tyrants so that martyrs may be crowned. Much
169 more, therefore, should it be said that the evil of punishment,
170 which he causes - as Amos (3:6) says: "Does evil befall a city,
171 unless the Lord has done it?" - is never applied except for the
172 good he intends. And among these goods the best is that the works
173 of God be manifested, and from them that God be known. Therefore,
174 it is not unfitting if he sends afflictions or allows sins to be
165 committed in order that some good come from them.<a href="#_ftn8" 175 committed in order that some good come from them.<a href="#_ftn8"
166 name="_ftnref8">[8]</a> 176 name="_ftnref8" id="_ftnref8">[8]</a></p>
167 177 <p>1302 It should be noted, as Gregory says in <i>I Morals</i>,
168 <p>1302 It should be noted, as 178 that God sends afflictions to men in five ways.<a href="#_ftn9"
169 Gregory says in <i>I Morals</i>, that God sends afflictions to men in five 179 name="_ftnref9" id="_ftnref9">[9]</a> Sometimes they are the
170 ways.<a href="#_ftn9" name="_ftnref9">[9]</a> 180 beginning of damnation, according to Jeremiah: "Strike them with a
171 Sometimes they are the beginning of damnation, according to Jeremiah: "Strike 181 double punishment." A sinner is struck with this kind of punishment
172 them with a double punishment." A sinner is struck with this kind of punishment 182 in this life so that without interruption or end he might be
173 in this life so that without interruption or end he might be punished in the 183 punished in the other life. For example, Herod, who killed James,
174 other life. For example, Herod, who killed James, was punished in this life and 184 was punished in this life and also in hell (Acts 12:23). Sometimes
175 also in hell (Acts 12:23). Sometimes afflictions are sent as a correction, as 185 afflictions are sent as a correction, as we read: "Your discipline
176 we read: "Your discipline will teach me" [Ps 17:36]. And sometimes a person is 186 will teach me" [Ps 17:36]. And sometimes a person is afflicted not
177 afflicted not to correct past wrongs, but to preserve him from future ones, as 187 to correct past wrongs, but to preserve him from future ones, as we
178 we read of Paul: "And to keep me from being too elated by the abundance of revelations, 188 read of Paul: "And to keep me from being too elated by the
179 a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to harass me, to keep 189 abundance of revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a
180 me from being too elated" (2 Cor 12:7). Again, sometimes it is done to 190 messenger of Satan, to harass me, to keep me from being too elated"
181 encourage virtue: as when a person's past sins are not being corrected, nor 191 (2 Cor 12:7). Again, sometimes it is done to encourage virtue: as
182 future ones hindered, but he is led to a stronger love by knowing the power of 192 when a person's past sins are not being corrected, nor future ones
183 the one who unexpectedly delivered him from some difficulty: "Virtue is made 193 hindered, but he is led to a stronger love by knowing the power of
184 perfect in infirmity" [2 Cor 12:9]; "Patience has a perfect work" [Jas 1:4]. 194 the one who unexpectedly delivered him from some difficulty:
185 And finally, sometimes afflictions are sent to manifest the divine glory; thus 195 "Virtue is made perfect in infirmity" [2 Cor 12:9]; "Patience has a
186 we read here, <b>that the works of God might be made manifest in him</b>. 196 perfect work" [Jas 1:4]. And finally, sometimes afflictions are
187 197 sent to manifest the divine glory; thus we read here, <b>that the
188 <p>1303 Next he explains the 198 works of God might be made manifest in him</b>.</p>
189 true reason. And because he had mentioned God's works, first he states the 199 <p>1303 Next he explains the true reason. And because he had
190 opportunity for manifesting God's works; secondly, the reason for this 200 mentioned God's works, first he states the opportunity for
191 opportunity or need, <b>night comes</b>; and thirdly, he explains this (v 5). 201 manifesting God's works; secondly, the reason for this opportunity
192 202 or need, <b>night comes</b>; and thirdly, he explains this (v
193 <p>1304 He says, therefore, this 203 5).</p>
194 man was born blind <b>that the works of God might be made manifest in him</b>. 204 <p>1304 He says, therefore, this man was born blind <b>that the
195 And it was necessary that they be manifested, for <b>we must work the works of 205 works of God might be made manifest in him</b>. And it was
196 him who sent me</b>, that is, the works entrusted to me by my Father: "I have 206 necessary that they be manifested, for <b>we must work the works of
197 come to do the will of him who sent me" (6:38). And below he says: "Father, I 207 him who sent me</b>, that is, the works entrusted to me by my
198 have accomplished the work you gave me to do" (17:4). Or, these words can refer 208 Father: "I have come to do the will of him who sent me" (6:38). And
199 to Christ insofar as he is God; and then they indicate the equality of his 209 below he says: "Father, I have accomplished the work you gave me to
200 power with that of the Father. Then the meaning is, <b>we must work the works 210 do" (17:4). Or, these words can refer to Christ insofar as he is
201 of him who sent me</b>, that is, the works which I have from the Father. For 211 God; and then they indicate the equality of his power with that of
202 everything that the Son does, even according to his divine nature, he has from 212 the Father. Then the meaning is, <b>we must work the works of him
203 his Father: "The Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees 213 who sent me</b>, that is, the works which I have from the Father.
204 the Father doing" (5:19). 214 For everything that the Son does, even according to his divine
205 215 nature, he has from his Father: "The Son can do nothing of his own
206 <p>1305 I say we must work <b>while 216 accord, but only what he sees the Father doing" (5:19).</p>
207 it is day</b>. Our natural day is produced by the presence of the sun to the 217 <p>1305 I say we must work <b>while it is day</b>. Our natural day
208 earth. But the Sun of Justice or Righteousness is Christ, our God: "But for you 218 is produced by the presence of the sun to the earth. But the Sun of
209 who fear my name the sun of righteousness shall rise" (Mal 4:2). Therefore, as 219 Justice or Righteousness is Christ, our God: "But for you who fear
210 long as this Sun is present to us, the works of God can be done in us, for us, 220 my name the sun of righteousness shall rise" (Mal 4:2). Therefore,
211 and by us. At one time this Sun was physically present to us; and then it was 221 as long as this Sun is present to us, the works of God can be done
212 day: "This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in 222 in us, for us, and by us. At one time this Sun was physically
213 it" (Ps 118:24). Therefore, it was fitting to do the works of God. He is also 223 present to us; and then it was day: "This is the day which the Lord
214 present us by grace; and then it is the day of grace, when it is fitting to do 224 has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it" (Ps 118:24). Therefore,
215 the works of God, <b>while it is day</b>; "The night is far gone, the day is at 225 it was fitting to do the works of God. He is also present us by
216 hand. Let us then cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light" 226 grace; and then it is the day of grace, when it is fitting to do
217 (Rom 13:12); "Those who sleep, sleep at night" (1 Thess 5:7). 227 the works of God, <b>while it is day</b>; "The night is far gone,
218 228 the day is at hand. Let us then cast off the works of darkness and
219 <p>1306 If the presence of the 229 put on the armor of light" (Rom 13:12); "Those who sleep, sleep at
220 sun produces day, and its absence night, then, since the sun is always present 230 night" (1 Thess 5:7).</p>
221 to itself, it is always day for the sun; and so for the sun, it is always the 231 <p>1306 If the presence of the sun produces day, and its absence
222 time for acting and illuminating. But with regard to ourselves, to whom it is 232 night, then, since the sun is always present to itself, it is
223 sometimes present and at other times absent, it is not always acting and 233 always day for the sun; and so for the sun, it is always the time
224 illuminating. In the same way for Christ, the Sun of Justice, it is always day 234 for acting and illuminating. But with regard to ourselves, to whom
225 and the time for acting; but not with respect to us, because we are not always 235 it is sometimes present and at other times absent, it is not always
226 able to receive his grace due to some obstacle on our part. 236 acting and illuminating. In the same way for Christ, the Sun of
227 237 Justice, it is always day and the time for acting; but not with
228 <p>1307 He mentions why this is 238 respect to us, because we are not always able to receive his grace
229 our opportunity when he says, <b>night comes, when no one can work</b>. Just as 239 due to some obstacle on our part.</p>
230 there are two kinds of day, so there are two kinds of night. One is by the 240 <p>1307 He mentions why this is our opportunity when he says,
231 physical departure of the Sun of Justice, which is what the Apostles 241 <b>night comes, when no one can work</b>. Just as there are two
232 experienced when they were demoralized at the time of the passion, when Christ 242 kinds of day, so there are two kinds of night. One is by the
233 was physically taken from them: "you will all fall away because of me this 243 physical departure of the Sun of Justice, which is what the
234 night" (Mt 26:31). Then it was not the time for acting, but for suffering. 244 Apostles experienced when they were demoralized at the time of the
235 245 passion, when Christ was physically taken from them: "you will all
236 <p>But 246 fall away because of me this night" (Mt 26:31). Then it was not the
237 it is better to say that even when Christ was physically absent because of his 247 time for acting, but for suffering.</p>
238 ascension, it was still day for the Apostles insofar as the Sun of Justice 248 <p>But it is better to say that even when Christ was physically
239 shone on them, and it was a time for working. And so night in this passage 249 absent because of his ascension, it was still day for the Apostles
240 refers to that night which comes from the spiritual separation from the Sun of 250 insofar as the Sun of Justice shone on them, and it was a time for
241 Justice, that is, by the separation from grace. This night is of two kinds. One 251 working. And so night in this passage refers to that night which
242 is by the loss of actual grace through mortal sin: "Those who sleep, sleep at 252 comes from the spiritual separation from the Sun of Justice, that
243 night" (1 Thess 5:7). When this night comes, no one can perform works that 253 is, by the separation from grace. This night is of two kinds. One
244 merit eternal life. The other night is total, when one is deprived not only of 254 is by the loss of actual grace through mortal sin: "Those who
245 actual grace by mortal sin, but even of the ability of obtaining grace because 255 sleep, sleep at night" (1 Thess 5:7). When this night comes, no one
246 of an eternal damnation in hell. Here there is a vast night for those to whom 256 can perform works that merit eternal life. The other night is
247 it will be said: "Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire" (Mt 257 total, when one is deprived not only of actual grace by mortal sin,
248 24:41). During this night no one can work, because it is not the time for 258 but even of the ability of obtaining grace because of an eternal
249 meriting, but for receiving according to one's merits. Therefore, while you are 259 damnation in hell. Here there is a vast night for those to whom it
250 living, do now what you will want to have done then: "Whatever your hand finds 260 will be said: "Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire"
251 to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or thought of knowledge or 261 (Mt 24:41). During this night no one can work, because it is not
252 wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going" (Eccl 9:10). 262 the time for meriting, but for receiving according to one's merits.
253 263 Therefore, while you are living, do now what you will want to have
254 <p>1308 He gives the reason for 264 done then: "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might;
255 what he has just said, saying, <b>as long as I am in the world, I am the light 265 for there is no work or thought of knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to
256 of the world</b>. This is like saying: If you want to know what is that day and 266 which you are going" (Eccl 9:10).</p>
257 what is that night of which I speak, I say that <b>I am the light of the world</b>, 267 <p>1308 He gives the reason for what he has just said, saying,
258 for my presence makes day, and my absence night; "I am the light of the world" 268 <b>as long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world</b>.
259 (8:12). <b>As long as I am in the world</b> by my bodily presence - "I came 269 This is like saying: If you want to know what is that day and what
260 forth from the Father and have come into the world; again, I am leaving the 270 is that night of which I speak, I say that <b>I am the light of the
261 world and going to the Father" (16:28) - <b>I am the light of the world</b>. 271 world</b>, for my presence makes day, and my absence night; "I am
262 And thus this day lasted until the ascension of Christ. Or again, <b>as long as 272 the light of the world" (8:12). <b>As long as I am in the world</b>
263 I am in</b> <b>the world </b>spiritually by grace - "I am with you until the 273 by my bodily presence - "I came forth from the Father and have come
264 consummation of the world" [Mt 28:20] - <b>I am the light of the world</b>. And 274 into the world; again, I am leaving the world and going to the
265 this day will last until the consummation of the world. 275 Father" (16:28) - <b>I am the light of the world</b>. And thus this
266 276 day lasted until the ascension of Christ. Or again, <b>as long as I
267 <p>1309 Next, when the 277 am in</b> <b>the world</b> spiritually by grace - "I am with you
268 Evangelist says, <b>as he said this, he spat on the ground</b>, he describes 278 until the consummation of the world" [Mt 28:20] - <b>I am the light
269 the healing of the blind man. Here five things were done by Christ. First, he 279 of the world</b>. And this day will last until the consummation of
270 moistens the earth, <b>he spat on the ground</b>. Secondly, he made the clay, 280 the world.</p>
271 as we read, he <b>made clay of the spittle</b>. Thirdly, Christ smeared the 281 <p>1309 Next, when the Evangelist says, <b>as he said this, he spat
272 man's eyes <b>and anointed the man's eyes</b>. Fourthly, he commands the man to 282 on the ground</b>, he describes the healing of the blind man. Here
273 wash, with <b>go, wash in the pool of Siloam</b>. And fifthly, the man's sight 283 five things were done by Christ. First, he moistens the earth,
274 is restored, <b>and he came back seeing</b>. Each of these has both a literal 284 <b>he spat on the ground</b>. Secondly, he made the clay, as we
275 and a mystical explanation. 285 read, he <b>made clay of the spittle</b>. Thirdly, Christ smeared
276 286 the man's eyes <b>and anointed the man's eyes</b>. Fourthly, he
277 <p>1310 The literal meaning is 287 commands the man to wash, with <b>go, wash in the pool of
278 explained by Chrysostom in this way.<a href="#_ftn10" name="_ftnref10">[10]</a> 288 Siloam</b>. And fifthly, the man's sight is restored, <b>and he
289 came back seeing</b>. Each of these has both a literal and a
290 mystical explanation.</p>
291 <p>1310 The literal meaning is explained by Chrysostom in this
292 way.<a href="#_ftn10" name="_ftnref10" id="_ftnref10">[10]</a>
279 Christ restored the man's sight by spittle in order to show that he 293 Christ restored the man's sight by spittle in order to show that he
280 accomplished this by a power coming from himself, and that the miracle should 294 accomplished this by a power coming from himself, and that the
281 not be attributed to anything else: "Power came forth from him" (Lk 6:19). 295 miracle should not be attributed to anything else: "Power came
282 Although our Lord could have performed all his miracles by his mere word, 296 forth from him" (Lk 6:19). Although our Lord could have performed
283 because "he commanded and they were created" (Ps 148:5), he frequently used his 297 all his miracles by his mere word, because "he commanded and they
284 body in them to show that as an instrument of his divinity it held a definite 298 were created" (Ps 148:5), he frequently used his body in them to
285 healing power. He made clay from his spittle to show that he who had formed the 299 show that as an instrument of his divinity it held a definite
286 entire first man can reshape the deficient members of a man. Thus, just as he 300 healing power. He made clay from his spittle to show that he who
287 formed the first man from clay, so he made clay to re-form the eyes of the one 301 had formed the entire first man can reshape the deficient members
288 born blind. 302 of a man. Thus, just as he formed the first man from clay, so he
289 303 made clay to re-form the eyes of the one born blind.</p>
290 <p>He 304 <p>He rubbed the clay on the eyes of the one born blind to show, by
291 rubbed the clay on the eyes of the one born blind to show, by healing what is 305 healing what is most important in bodies, that he was the creator
292 most important in bodies, that he was the creator of bodies. For man is more 306 of bodies. For man is more excellent than all other bodily
293 excellent than all other bodily substances; and among his members, the head is 307 substances; and among his members, the head is the more excellent;
294 the more excellent; and among the organs of the head, the eye is more excellent 308 and among the organs of the head, the eye is more excellent than
295 than the others: "The eye is the lamp of the body" (Mt 6:22). Therefore, by 309 the others: "The eye is the lamp of the body" (Mt 6:22). Therefore,
296 repairing the eye, which is more excellent than the other bodily members, he 310 by repairing the eye, which is more excellent than the other bodily
297 showed that he was the creator of the entire man and of all corporeal nature. 311 members, he showed that he was the creator of the entire man and of
298 He said, <b>go, wash in the pool of Siloam</b>, so that it would not seem that 312 all corporeal nature. He said, <b>go, wash in the pool of
299 the clay he rubbed on the eyes had the power to heal them. Thus, as long as he 313 Siloam</b>, so that it would not seem that the clay he rubbed on
300 had the clay on his eyes, the man did not see, but saw only after he washed. 314 the eyes had the power to heal them. Thus, as long as he had the
301 315 clay on his eyes, the man did not see, but saw only after he
302 <p>He 316 washed.</p>
303 sent him some distance to wash, to the pool of Siloam, first, to overcome the 317 <p>He sent him some distance to wash, to the pool of Siloam, first,
304 obstinacy of the Jews. For he had to cross the city, and so all would see the 318 to overcome the obstinacy of the Jews. For he had to cross the
305 blind man going with the clay on his eyes, and then returning with his sight 319 city, and so all would see the blind man going with the clay on his
306 restored. Secondly, he did this to acclaim the obedience and faith of the blind 320 eyes, and then returning with his sight restored. Secondly, he did
307 man; for perhaps he had frequently had clay put on his face, and had often 321 this to acclaim the obedience and faith of the blind man; for
308 washed in the pool of Siloam, and yet had not seen. So he could have said: "Clay 322 perhaps he had frequently had clay put on his face, and had often
309 usually makes me worse, and I have often washed in the pool but was never 323 washed in the pool of Siloam, and yet had not seen. So he could
310 helped," as we read of Naaman in 2 Kings (5:10). Yet he did not argue, but 324 have said: "Clay usually makes me worse, and I have often washed in
311 simply obeyed. Thus it follows, <b>so he went and washed</b>. The reason why he 325 the pool but was never helped," as we read of Naaman in 2 Kings
312 sent him to the pool of Siloam was because the Jewish people were signified by 326 (5:10). Yet he did not argue, but simply obeyed. Thus it follows,
313 that water: "Because this people have refused the waters of Shiloah that flow 327 <b>so he went and washed</b>. The reason why he sent him to the
314 gently" (Is 8:6) Therefore, he sent him to Siloam to show that he still loved 328 pool of Siloam was because the Jewish people were signified by that
315 the Jewish people. 329 water: "Because this people have refused the waters of Shiloah that
316 330 flow gently" (Is 8:6) Therefore, he sent him to Siloam to show that
317 <p>The 331 he still loved the Jewish people.</p>
318 effect follows, because <b>he came back seeing</b>. This was predicted in 332 <p>The effect follows, because <b>he came back seeing</b>. This was
319 Isaiah (35:5): "Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened." 333 predicted in Isaiah (35:5): "Then the eyes of the blind shall be
320 334 opened."</p>
321 <p>1311 Augustine gives the 335 <p>1311 Augustine gives the mystical and allegorical explanation.
322 mystical and allegorical explanation. He says that the spittle, which is saliva 336 He says that the spittle, which is saliva that descends from the
323 that descends from the head, signifies the Word of God, who proceeds from the 337 head, signifies the Word of God, who proceeds from the Father, the
324 Father, the head of all things: "I came forth from the mouth of the Most High" 338 head of all things: "I came forth from the mouth of the Most High"
325 (Sir 24:3). Therefore, the Lord made clay from spittle and the earth when the 339 (Sir 24:3). Therefore, the Lord made clay from spittle and the
326 Word was made flesh. <a href="#_ftn11" 340 earth when the Word was made flesh. <a href="#_ftn11" name=
327 name="_ftnref11">[11]</a> 341 "_ftnref11" id="_ftnref11">[11]</a> He anointed the eyes of the
328 He anointed the eyes of the blind man, that is, of the human race. And the eyes 342 blind man, that is, of the human race. And the eyes are the eyes of
329 are the eyes of the heart, anointed by faith in the incarnation of Christ. But 343 the heart, anointed by faith in the incarnation of Christ. But the
330 the blind man did not yet see, because the anointing produced a catechumen, who 344 blind man did not yet see, because the anointing produced a
331 has faith but has not yet been baptized. So he sends him to the pool of Siloam 345 catechumen, who has faith but has not yet been baptized. So he
332 to wash and receive his sight, i.e., to be baptized, and in baptism to receive 346 sends him to the pool of Siloam to wash and receive his sight,
333 full enlightenment. Thus, according to Dionysius, baptism is an enlightenment: 347 i.e., to be baptized, and in baptism to receive full enlightenment.
334 "I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean from all your 348 Thus, according to Dionysius, baptism is an enlightenment: "I will
335 uncleanness" (Ezek 36:25).<a href="#_ftn12" name="_ftnref12">[12]</a> 349 sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean from all your
336 And so this Gospel is appropriately read in Lent, on Holy Saturday, when those 350 uncleanness" (Ezek 36:25).<a href="#_ftn12" name="_ftnref12" id=
337 about to be baptized are examined. Nor is it without reason that the Evangelist 351 "_ftnref12">[12]</a> And so this Gospel is appropriately read in
338 adds the meaning of the pool, saying, <b>which means Sent</b>, because whoever 352 Lent, on Holy Saturday, when those about to be baptized are
339 is baptized must be baptized in Christ, who was sent by the Father: "As many of 353 examined. Nor is it without reason that the Evangelist adds the
340 you as were baptized in Christ have put on Christ" (Gal 3:27). For if Christ 354 meaning of the pool, saying, <b>which means Sent</b>, because
341 had not been sent, none of us would have been freed from sin. 355 whoever is baptized must be baptized in Christ, who was sent by the
342 356 Father: "As many of you as were baptized in Christ have put on
343 <p>According 357 Christ" (Gal 3:27). For if Christ had not been sent, none of us
344 to Gregory, however, the spittle signifies the savor of intimate contemplation, 358 would have been freed from sin.</p>
345 which flows from the head into the mouth, because due to the love of our 359 <p>According to Gregory, however, the spittle signifies the savor
346 Creator we have been touched even in this life with the savor of revelation.<a 360 of intimate contemplation, which flows from the head into the
347 href="#_ftn13" name="_ftnref13">[13]</a> 361 mouth, because due to the love of our Creator we have been touched
348 Thus the Lord mixed spittle with earth and restored sight to the man born with 362 even in this life with the savor of revelation.<a href="#_ftn13"
349 his contemplation, and heals our understanding from its original blindness. 363 name="_ftnref13" id="_ftnref13">[13]</a> Thus the Lord mixed
350 364 spittle with earth and restored sight to the man born with his
351 <p align=center><B>LECTURE 2</B> 365 contemplation, and heals our understanding from its original
352 366 blindness.</p>
353 <BLOCKQUOTE><p>8 The neighbors and those 367 <p align="center"><b>LECTURE 2</b></p>
354 who had seen him before as a beggar, said, "Is not this the man who used to sit 368 <blockquote>
355 and beg?" 9 Some said, "It is he"; others said, "No, but he is like him." He 369 <p>8 The neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar,
356 said, "I am the man." 10 They said to him, "Then how were your eyes opened?" 11 370 said, "Is not this the man who used to sit and beg?" 9 Some said,
357 He answered, "The man called Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes an said to 371 "It is he"; others said, "No, but he is like him." He said, "I am
358 me, 'Go to Siloam and wash'; so I went and washed and received my sight." 12 372 the man." 10 They said to him, "Then how were your eyes opened?" 11
359 They said to him, "Where is he?" He said, "I do not know." 13 They brought to 373 He answered, "The man called Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes
360 the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. 14 Now it was a Sabbath day 374 an said to me, 'Go to Siloam and wash'; so I went and washed and
361 when Jesus made the clay and opened his eyes. 15 The Pharisees again asked him 375 received my sight." 12 They said to him, "Where is he?" He said, "I
362 how he had received his sight. And he said to them, "He put clay on my eyes, 376 do not know." 13 They brought to the Pharisees the man who had
363 and I washed, and I see." 16 Some of the Pharisees said, "This man is not from 377 formerly been blind. 14 Now it was a Sabbath day when Jesus made
364 God, for he does not keep the Sabbath." But others said, "How can a man who is 378 the clay and opened his eyes. 15 The Pharisees again asked him how
365 a sinner do such signs?" There was a division among them. 17 So they again said 379 he had received his sight. And he said to them, "He put clay on my
366 to the blind man, "What do you say about him, since he has opened your eyes?" 380 eyes, and I washed, and I see." 16 Some of the Pharisees said,
367 He said, "He is a prophet." 18 The Jews did not believe that he had been blind 381 "This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath." But
368 and had received his sight, until they called the parents of the man who had 382 others said, "How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?" There
369 received his sight, 19 and asked them, "Is this your son, who you say was born 383 was a division among them. 17 So they again said to the blind man,
370 blind? How then does he now see?" 20 His parents answered, "We know that this 384 "What do you say about him, since he has opened your eyes?" He
371 is our son, and that he was born blind; 21 but how he now sees we do not know, 385 said, "He is a prophet." 18 The Jews did not believe that he had
372 nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age, he will speak for 386 been blind and had received his sight, until they called the
373 himself." 22 His parents said this because they feared the Jews, for the Jews 387 parents of the man who had received his sight, 19 and asked them,
374 had already agreed that if any one should confess him to be Christ, he was to 388 "Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now
375 be put out of the synagogue. 23 Therefore his parents said, "He is of age, ask 389 see?" 20 His parents answered, "We know that this is our son, and
376 him."<a href="#_ftn14" name="_ftnref14"><b>[14]</b></a></BLOCKQUOTE> 390 that he was born blind; 21 but how he now sees we do not know, nor
377 391 do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age, he will
378 <p>1312 After the description of 392 speak for himself." 22 His parents said this because they feared
379 the miraculous healing of the blind man, the Evangelist tells of the miracle 393 the Jews, for the Jews had already agreed that if any one should
380 being examined. First, the miracle is examined by the people; secondly, by the 394 confess him to be Christ, he was to be put out of the synagogue. 23
381 Pharisees (v 13); and thirdly, on account of his confession the blind man is 395 Therefore his parents said, "He is of age, ask him."<a href=
382 instructed and commended by Christ (v 35). In regard to the first, the 396 "#_ftn14" name="_ftnref14" id="_ftnref14"><b>[14]</b></a></p>
383 Evangelist mentions three things: first, we see an inquiry about the person who 397 </blockquote>
384 received his sight; secondly, about the restoration itself (v 10); and thirdly 398 <p>1312 After the description of the miraculous healing of the
385 about the one who restored his sight (v 1). In regard to the first he does 399 blind man, the Evangelist tells of the miracle being examined.
386 three things: first, we have a question about the one who received his sight; 400 First, the miracle is examined by the people; secondly, by the
387 secondly, the different opinions about this are given; thirdly, the question is 401 Pharisees (v 13); and thirdly, on account of his confession the
388 settled. 402 blind man is instructed and commended by Christ (v 35). In regard
389 403 to the first, the Evangelist mentions three things: first, we see
390 <p>1313 The question is asked by 404 an inquiry about the person who received his sight; secondly, about
391 the people. He says, <b>the neighbors and those who had seen him before as a 405 the restoration itself (v 10); and thirdly about the one who
392 beggar said: Is not this the man who used to sit and beg? </b>Here two things 406 restored his sight (v 1). In regard to the first he does three
393 are to be considered. One is that due to the greatness of the miracle, it was 407 things: first, we have a question about the one who received his
394 considered incredible. So we read below: "Never since the world began has it 408 sight; secondly, the different opinions about this are given;
395 been heard that any one opened the eyes of a man born blind" (9:32). This 409 thirdly, the question is settled.</p>
396 fulfills for them what is said in Habakkuk (1:5), "I am doing a work in your 410 <p>1313 The question is asked by the people. He says, <b>the
397 days that you would not believe if told." Secondly, we should note the 411 neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar said: Is
398 wonderful compassion of God, because our Lord performs miracles not only for 412 not this the man who used to sit and beg?</b> Here two things are
399 the powerful, but also for outcasts, since he healed, with great pity, those 413 to be considered. One is that due to the greatness of the miracle,
400 who begged. This shows that he who came for our salvation rejected no one 414 it was considered incredible. So we read below: "Never since the
401 because of their poverty: "Has not God chosen those who are poor in the world 415 world began has it been heard that any one opened the eyes of a man
402 to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom?" (Jas 2:5). Thus they explicitly 416 born blind" (9:32). This fulfills for them what is said in Habakkuk
403 say, <b>Is not this the man who used to sit and beg? </b>This is like saying: 417 (1:5), "I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe
404 He is an outcast and does not deserve to be cured. But Baruch says the 418 if told." Secondly, we should note the wonderful compassion of God,
405 opposite: "The giants who were born there…God did not choose them" (3:26). 419 because our Lord performs miracles not only for the powerful, but
406 420 also for outcasts, since he healed, with great pity, those who
407 <p>1314 The opinions of the 421 begged. This shows that he who came for our salvation rejected no
408 people are presented when he says, <b>Some said</b>: It is he, the beggar, 422 one because of their poverty: "Has not God chosen those who are
409 because they had often seen him begging, and later hurrying through the town 423 poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom?"
410 when he went to the pool with the clay on his eyes. Thus they could not deny 424 (Jas 2:5). Thus they explicitly say, <b>Is not this the man who
411 that it was he. But others were on the contrary opinion, so they said, <b>No, 425 used to sit and beg?</b> This is like saying: He is an outcast and
412 but it is like him</b>. The reason for this, as Augustine says, is that the 426 does not deserve to be cured. But Baruch says the opposite: "The
413 man's appearance changed when he regained his sight, for nothing is so 427 giants who were born there&hellip;God did not choose them"
414 characteristic as the expression a person gets from his eyes: "A sensible man 428 (3:26).</p>
415 is known by his face" (Sir 19:29).<a href="#_ftn15" name="_ftnref15">[15]</a> 429 <p>1314 The opinions of the people are presented when he says,
416 430 <b>Some said</b>: It is he, the beggar, because they had often seen
417 <p>1315 The question is settled 431 him begging, and later hurrying through the town when he went to
418 by the blind man because <b>he said</b>, the blind man, <b>I am the man</b>, 432 the pool with the clay on his eyes. Thus they could not deny that
419 the one who used to beg. His voice was grateful. For since he could not be 433 it was he. But others were on the contrary opinion, so they said,
420 ungrateful for such a great favor and was unable to show any other sign of 434 <b>No, but it is like him</b>. The reason for this, as Augustine
421 gratitude than to constantly declare that he had been cured by Christ, he said, 435 says, is that the man's appearance changed when he regained his
422 <b>I am the man</b>, the one who was blind and begged; and now I see: "Praise 436 sight, for nothing is so characteristic as the expression a person
423 God and give thanks to him…for what he has done for you" (Tob 12:6). 437 gets from his eyes: "A sensible man is known by his face" (Sir
424 438 19:29).<a href="#_ftn15" name="_ftnref15" id=
425 <p>1316 Then (v 10), we see the 439 "_ftnref15">[15]</a></p>
426 investigation of the act, which was the restoration of the man's sight. First, 440 <p>1315 The question is settled by the blind man because <b>he
427 we have the question asked by the Jews; secondly, the answer of the blind man 441 said</b>, the blind man, <b>I am the man</b>, the one who used to
428 (v 11). 442 beg. His voice was grateful. For since he could not be ungrateful
429 443 for such a great favor and was unable to show any other sign of
430 <p>1317 They continue: If you 444 gratitude than to constantly declare that he had been cured by
431 are the blind man who used to beg, then tell us, <b>how were your eyes opened? </b>This 445 Christ, he said, <b>I am the man</b>, the one who was blind and
432 question came from their vain curiosity because neither the one who was cured 446 begged; and now I see: "Praise God and give thanks to
433 nor we ourselves know how it was done: "Do not meddle in what is beyond your 447 him&hellip;for what he has done for you" (Tob 12:6).</p>
434 tasks" (Sir 3:23). 448 <p>1316 Then (v 10), we see the investigation of the act, which was
435 449 the restoration of the man's sight. First, we have the question
436 <p>1318 The blind man's answer 450 asked by the Jews; secondly, the answer of the blind man (v
437 was remarkable; he says, <b>the man called Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes</b>…In 451 11).</p>
438 his answer he first points out the person who gave him his sight, saying <b>the 452 <p>1317 They continue: If you are the blind man who used to beg,
439 man called Jesus</b>. He was right in calling him a man; he knew that he was a 453 then tell us, <b>how were your eyes opened?</b> This question came
440 man, and he was a true man: "Born in the likeness of man" (Phil 2:7). For 454 from their vain curiosity because neither the one who was cured nor
441 although he had not seen Jesus, because he had left while still blind to go to 455 we ourselves know how it was done: "Do not meddle in what is beyond
442 Siloam, he knew him from his voice and from the conversations of others about 456 your tasks" (Sir 3:23).</p>
443 him. 457 <p>1318 The blind man's answer was remarkable; he says, <b>the man
444 458 called Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes</b>&hellip;In his
445 <p>Secondly, 459 answer he first points out the person who gave him his sight,
446 he tells what was done, saying, <b>he made clay and anointed my eyes</b>. Here 460 saying <b>the man called Jesus</b>. He was right in calling him a
447 he shows that he is truthful, not asserting what is not certain. For our Lord 461 man; he knew that he was a man, and he was a true man: "Born in the
448 had made clay from spittle, but he did not know this; yet through his sense of 462 likeness of man" (Phil 2:7). For although he had not seen Jesus,
449 touch he recognized the clay which was made and placed over his eyes. So he did 463 because he had left while still blind to go to Siloam, he knew him
450 not say, "He made clay from spittle," but only, he <b>made clay and anointed my 464 from his voice and from the conversations of others about him.</p>
451 eyes</b>: "That which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we 465 <p>Secondly, he tells what was done, saying, <b>he made clay and
452 have looked upon and touched with our hands…we proclaim also to you" (1 Jn 466 anointed my eyes</b>. Here he shows that he is truthful, not
453 1:1). 467 asserting what is not certain. For our Lord had made clay from
454 468 spittle, but he did not know this; yet through his sense of touch
455 <p>Thirdly, 469 he recognized the clay which was made and placed over his eyes. So
456 he mentions the command, saying, <b>and he said to me, Go to Siloam and wash</b>. 470 he did not say, "He made clay from spittle," but only, he <b>made
457 This was also necessary for us, for if we wish to be cleansed from our 471 clay and anointed my eyes</b>: "That which we have heard, which we
458 blindness of heart, it is necessary that we be spiritually washed; "Wash 472 have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon and touched with
459 yourselves; make yourselves clean" (Is 1:16). 473 our hands&hellip;we proclaim also to you" (1 Jn 1:1).</p>
460 474 <p>Thirdly, he mentions the command, saying, <b>and he said to me,
461 <p>Fourthly, 475 Go to Siloam and wash</b>. This was also necessary for us, for if
462 he shows his obedience, saying, <b>so I went and washed</b>. He is saying in 476 we wish to be cleansed from our blindness of heart, it is necessary
463 effect: Because I heard this command and desired to see, I obeyed. And it is no 477 that we be spiritually washed; "Wash yourselves; make yourselves
464 wonder, because we read: "For the commandment," that is, when obeyed, "is a 478 clean" (Is 1:16).</p>
465 lamp and the teaching a light" (Prov 6:23). 479 <p>Fourthly, he shows his obedience, saying, <b>so I went and
466 480 washed</b>. He is saying in effect: Because I heard this command
467 <p>Fifthly, 481 and desired to see, I obeyed. And it is no wonder, because we read:
468 he mentions the good effect, saying, <b>and I received my sight</b>. It was 482 "For the commandment," that is, when obeyed, "is a lamp and the
469 fitting that he be enlightened after obeying, because as it says in Acts 483 teaching a light" (Prov 6:23).</p>
470 (5:32): "It is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him." 484 <p>Fifthly, he mentions the good effect, saying, <b>and I received
471 Notice the perseverance of the blind man. As Augustine says: "Look at him! He 485 my sight</b>. It was fitting that he be enlightened after obeying,
472 became a preacher of grace. See him! He preaches and testifies to the Jews. 486 because as it says in Acts (5:32): "It is the Holy Spirit whom God
473 This blind man testified, and the hearts of the wicked were vexed, because they 487 has given to those who obey him." Notice the perseverance of the
474 did not have the light in their hearts which he had in his face."<a 488 blind man. As Augustine says: "Look at him! He became a preacher of
475 href="#_ftn16" name="_ftnref16">[16]</a> 489 grace. See him! He preaches and testifies to the Jews. This blind
476 490 man testified, and the hearts of the wicked were vexed, because
477 <p>1319 Next, we have the 491 they did not have the light in their hearts which he had in his
478 inquiry about the person who restored his sight (v 12). First, there is the 492 face."<a href="#_ftn16" name="_ftnref16" id=
479 question asked by the Jews, <b>Where is he? </b>They asked this maliciously, as 493 "_ftnref16">[16]</a></p>
480 they were thinking of killing him; for they had already formed a conspiracy 494 <p>1319 Next, we have the inquiry about the person who restored his
481 against Christ: "But now you seek to kill me" (8:40). 495 sight (v 12). First, there is the question asked by the Jews,
482 496 <b>Where is he?</b> They asked this maliciously, as they were
483 <p>Secondly, 497 thinking of killing him; for they had already formed a conspiracy
484 we have the answer of the blind man, <b>I do not know</b>. As Augustine says, 498 against Christ: "But now you seek to kill me" (8:40).</p>
485 from these words it is clear that what was accomplished in him physically 499 <p>Secondly, we have the answer of the blind man, <b>I do not
486 represents what is accomplished spiritually at different stages.<a 500 know</b>. As Augustine says, from these words it is clear that what
487 href="#_ftn17" name="_ftnref17">[17]</a> 501 was accomplished in him physically represents what is accomplished
488 For at first, the blind man is anointed, and then sees after his washing. The 502 spiritually at different stages.<a href="#_ftn17" name="_ftnref17"
489 anointing represents the beginning of his physical health, and the washing 503 id="_ftnref17">[17]</a> For at first, the blind man is anointed,
490 leads to complete health. In particular, an anointing produces a catechumen; 504 and then sees after his washing. The anointing represents the
491 and the washing, that is, baptism, perfects and enlightens him. Thus we have a 505 beginning of his physical health, and the washing leads to complete
492 representation of the difference in faith found at different stages. For when 506 health. In particular, an anointing produces a catechumen; and the
493 he says, <b>I do not know</b>, this represents the imperfect faith of 507 washing, that is, baptism, perfects and enlightens him. Thus we
494 catechumens: "You worship what you do not know" (4:22). This can also signify 508 have a representation of the difference in faith found at different
495 our faith: "For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophesying is imperfect" (1 509 stages. For when he says, <b>I do not know</b>, this represents the
496 Cor 13:9). 510 imperfect faith of catechumens: "You worship what you do not know"
497 511 (4:22). This can also signify our faith: "For our knowledge is
498 <p>1320 Then when he says, <b>they 512 imperfect and our prophesying is imperfect" (1 Cor 13:9).</p>
499 brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind</b>, we see his 513 <p>1320 Then when he says, <b>they brought to the Pharisees the man
500 examination by the Pharisees. First, they question the man born blind; 514 who had formerly been blind</b>, we see his examination by the
501 secondly, his parents (v 18). He does three things with the first. First, we 515 Pharisees. First, they question the man born blind; secondly, his
502 see the person to be examined; secondly, he mentions the intention of the 516 parents (v 18). He does three things with the first. First, we see
503 examiners; and thirdly we have the interrogation itself. 517 the person to be examined; secondly, he mentions the intention of
504 518 the examiners; and thirdly we have the interrogation itself.</p>
505 <p>1321 The one to be examined, 519 <p>1321 The one to be examined, the blind man, is led to the
506 the blind man, is led to the Pharisees by the people. <b>They brought</b>, that 520 Pharisees by the people. <b>They brought</b>, that is, the crowd,
507 is, the crowd, <b>to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind</b>. 521 <b>to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind</b>. They
508 They did this because the crowd was trying to find out from him where Jesus 522 did this because the crowd was trying to find out from him where
509 was, so that if they found him they could bring him to the Pharisees and accuse 523 Jesus was, so that if they found him they could bring him to the
510 him of breaking the Sabbath. So because they did not have Christ they took the 524 Pharisees and accuse him of breaking the Sabbath. So because they
511 blind man, so that by questioning him more roughly they might force him by fear 525 did not have Christ they took the blind man, so that by questioning
512 to make up something false about Christ: "I will go to the great, and will 526 him more roughly they might force him by fear to make up something
513 speak to them; for they know the way of the Lord, the law of their God. But 527 false about Christ: "I will go to the great, and will speak to
514 they all alike had broken the yoke, they had burst the bonds" (Jer 5:5). 528 them; for they know the way of the Lord, the law of their God. But
515 529 they all alike had broken the yoke, they had burst the bonds" (Jer
516 <p>1322 The Evangelist shows 530 5:5).</p>
517 that their intention was perverse, saying, <b>it was a Sabbath day when Jesus 531 <p>1322 The Evangelist shows that their intention was perverse,
518 made the clay</b>. He says this to show their evil intention and the reason why 532 saying, <b>it was a Sabbath day when Jesus made the clay</b>. He
519 they sought Jesus, that is, to find a charge against him and detract from his 533 says this to show their evil intention and the reason why they
520 miracle by his supposed violation of the law. Nevertheless, it should be said 534 sought Jesus, that is, to find a charge against him and detract
521 that "The Son of man is Lord of the Sabbath" (Mt 12:8). 535 from his miracle by his supposed violation of the law.
522 536 Nevertheless, it should be said that "The Son of man is Lord of the
523 <p>1323 His examination is 537 Sabbath" (Mt 12:8).</p>
524 conducted by the Pharisees, since it is said, <b>The Pharisees again asked him</b>. 538 <p>1323 His examination is conducted by the Pharisees, since it is
525 First, they question him about what was done; secondly, about the person who 539 said, <b>The Pharisees again asked him</b>. First, they question
526 did it (v 16). 540 him about what was done; secondly, about the person who did it (v
527 541 16).</p>
528 <p>1324 The Evangelist does two 542 <p>1324 The Evangelist does two things about the first: first, he
529 things about the first: first, he presents their interrogation; secondly, the 543 presents their interrogation; secondly, the blind man's answer.
530 blind man's answer. They ask him about the sign he received, <b>the Pharisees 544 They ask him about the sign he received, <b>the Pharisees again
531 again asked him</b>, not in order to learn, but to find a reason to accuse him 545 asked him</b>, not in order to learn, but to find a reason to
532 of lying. The blind man answers them, not contradicting what he said before, 546 accuse him of lying. The blind man answers them, not contradicting
533 nor deviating from the truth. <b>He</b>, that is, the blind man, <b>said to 547 what he said before, nor deviating from the truth. <b>He</b>, that
534 them, He put clay on my eyes</b>. We must, first, admire the perseverance of 548 is, the blind man, <b>said to them, He put clay on my eyes</b>. We
535 this blind man, for although it may not seem such a great thing to have spoken 549 must, first, admire the perseverance of this blind man, for
536 the truth when he, without danger, was questioned by the crowd, he showed 550 although it may not seem such a great thing to have spoken the
537 remarkable perseverance when in greater danger before the Pharisees he neither 551 truth when he, without danger, was questioned by the crowd, he
538 denied what he had said before nor changed his account: "I will also speak of 552 showed remarkable perseverance when in greater danger before the
539 thy testimonies before kings, and shall not be put to shame" (Ps 119:46). 553 Pharisees he neither denied what he had said before nor changed his
540 Secondly, we should admire his skill, for it is good practice to first relate 554 account: "I will also speak of thy testimonies before kings, and
541 an event in detail and with all its circumstances, and then if it has to be 555 shall not be put to shame" (Ps 119:46). Secondly, we should admire
542 repeated, to speak more concisely. So here, he does not repeat the name of the 556 his skill, for it is good practice to first relate an event in
543 one who spoke to him, nor that he was told to go and wash. But without 557 detail and with all its circumstances, and then if it has to be
544 hesitation he relays only the essential, and says, <b>He put clay on my eyes</b>. 558 repeated, to speak more concisely. So here, he does not repeat the
545 559 name of the one who spoke to him, nor that he was told to go and
546 <p>1325 Next (v 16), an inquiry 560 wash. But without hesitation he relays only the essential, and
547 is made about the one who restored the man's sight. First, the different 561 says, <b>He put clay on my eyes</b>.</p>
548 opinions of the Pharisees concerning Christ are given; secondly, the opinion of 562 <p>1325 Next (v 16), an inquiry is made about the one who restored
549 the blind man is sought (v 17). In regard to the first he does three things: 563 the man's sight. First, the different opinions of the Pharisees
550 first, he presents the opinion of those who were blaspheming Christ; then, the 564 concerning Christ are given; secondly, the opinion of the blind man
551 opinion of those who were commending him; thirdly, he concludes with the fact 565 is sought (v 17). In regard to the first he does three things:
552 that they were arguing and disagreeing among themselves. 566 first, he presents the opinion of those who were blaspheming
553 567 Christ; then, the opinion of those who were commending him;
554 <p>1326 We should note, 568 thirdly, he concludes with the fact that they were arguing and
555 concerning the first, that those who act maliciously against someone keep 569 disagreeing among themselves.</p>
556 silent if they see anything good in his work, and they reveal the evil, if any 570 <p>1326 We should note, concerning the first, that those who act
557 is seen, even turning what is good into evil, according to "Beware of a 571 maliciously against someone keep silent if they see anything good
558 scoundrel, for he devises evil, lest he give you a lasting blemish" (Sir 572 in his work, and they reveal the evil, if any is seen, even turning
559 11:33). This is what they are doing here: for they do not mention what seemed 573 what is good into evil, according to "Beware of a scoundrel, for he
560 good, that is, the restoration of the blind man's sight, but stress what they 574 devises evil, lest he give you a lasting blemish" (Sir 11:33). This
561 can against Christ, that is, his breaking of the Sabbath. Thus <b>some of the 575 is what they are doing here: for they do not mention what seemed
562 Pharisees said</b>, that is, those who were malicious and corrupt, <b>this man 576 good, that is, the restoration of the blind man's sight, but stress
563 is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath</b>. But Christ did keep the 577 what they can against Christ, that is, his breaking of the Sabbath.
564 Sabbath, for when the Lord forbade work on the Sabbath he had in mind servile 578 Thus <b>some of the Pharisees said</b>, that is, those who were
565 work, which is a sin: "Every one who does sinful works on the Sabbath breaks 579 malicious and corrupt, <b>this man is not from God, for he does not
566 the Sabbath. So Christ, who was without sin, rather than they, kept the 580 keep the Sabbath</b>. But Christ did keep the Sabbath, for when the
567 Sabbath. 581 Lord forbade work on the Sabbath he had in mind servile work, which
568 582 is a sin: "Every one who does sinful works on the Sabbath breaks
569 <p>1327 The opinion of those 583 the Sabbath. So Christ, who was without sin, rather than they, kept
570 commending him is presented when he reports them as saying, <b>How can a man 584 the Sabbath.</p>
571 who is a sinner do such signs? </b>These others had some faith due to the signs 585 <p>1327 The opinion of those commending him is presented when he
572 that Christ worked, but were still weak and imperfect; it was out of fear of 586 reports them as saying, <b>How can a man who is a sinner do such
573 the Pharisees and the elders that they asked with hesitation, <b>How can a man 587 signs?</b> These others had some faith due to the signs that Christ
574 who</b> <b>is a sinner do such signs? </b>We read below that "Many even of the 588 worked, but were still weak and imperfect; it was out of fear of
575 authorities believed in him, but for fear of the Pharisees they did not confess 589 the Pharisees and the elders that they asked with hesitation,
576 it" (12:42). They should have shown how our Lord had not broken the Sabbath, 590 <b>How can a man who</b> <b>is a sinner do such signs?</b> We read
577 and have appropriately replied in defense of Jesus. 591 below that "Many even of the authorities believed in him, but for
578 592 fear of the Pharisees they did not confess it" (12:42). They should
579 <p>1328 The difference of 593 have shown how our Lord had not broken the Sabbath, and have
580 opinion among them is mentioned when he says, <b>there was a division among 594 appropriately replied in defense of Jesus.</p>
581 them</b>; and this division was also found in the people. This was a sign of 595 <p>1328 The difference of opinion among them is mentioned when he
582 their destruction: "Their heart is false; now they must bear their guilt" (Hos 596 says, <b>there was a division among them</b>; and this division was
583 10:2); "Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste" (Mt 12:25). 597 also found in the people. This was a sign of their destruction:
584 598 "Their heart is false; now they must bear their guilt" (Hos 10:2);
585 <p>1329 Next (v 17), they ask 599 "Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste" (Mt
586 the blind man for his opinion. And first we have the question the Pharisees 600 12:25).</p>
587 asked; secondly, the blind man's answer. 601 <p>1329 Next (v 17), they ask the blind man for his opinion. And
588 602 first we have the question the Pharisees asked; secondly, the blind
589 <p>They 603 man's answer.</p>
590 question him, saying, <b>what do you say about him? </b>According to 604 <p>They question him, saying, <b>what do you say about him?</b>
591 Chrysostom, this question was not asked by those who were blaspheming Christ, 605 According to Chrysostom, this question was not asked by those who
592 but by those favorably disposed.<a href="#_ftn18" name="_ftnref18">[18]</a> 606 were blaspheming Christ, but by those favorably disposed.<a href=
593 This is clear from the way they questioned him; for they call his attention to 607 "#_ftn18" name="_ftnref18" id="_ftnref18">[18]</a> This is clear
594 the gift he received, saying, <b>since he has opened your eyes</b>. If the 608 from the way they questioned him; for they call his attention to
595 others had been doing the questioning, they would not have said this, but would 609 the gift he received, saying, <b>since he has opened your eyes</b>.
596 rather recall that Christ broke the Sabbath. But these remind him of the 610 If the others had been doing the questioning, they would not have
597 benefit that he received to make him grateful and lead him to testify to 611 said this, but would rather recall that Christ broke the Sabbath.
598 Christ. 612 But these remind him of the benefit that he received to make him
599 613 grateful and lead him to testify to Christ.</p>
600 <p class=MsoBodyTextIndent2>But according to 614 <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent2">But according to Augustine, this
601 Augustine, this question was asked by Christ's enemies, who wanted to deprecate 615 question was asked by Christ's enemies, who wanted to deprecate
602 this man who constantly professed the truth; or they were trying to get him to 616 this man who constantly professed the truth; or they were trying to
603 change his opinion out of fear; or at least were attempting to exclude him from 617 get him to change his opinion out of fear; or at least were
604 the synagogue.<a href="#_ftn19" name="_ftnref19">[19]</a> 618 attempting to exclude him from the synagogue.<a href="#_ftn19"
605 619 name="_ftnref19" id="_ftnref19">[19]</a></p>
606 <p>The 620 <p>The answer of the blind man remained the same, <b>he said, He is
607 answer of the blind man remained the same, <b>he said, He is a prophet</b>. 621 a prophet</b>. Although up to this time, as though unanointed in
608 Although up to this time, as though unanointed in heart, he did not yet profess 622 heart, he did not yet profess that Christ was the Son of God, he
609 that Christ was the Son of God, he firmly expressed what he thought and did not 623 firmly expressed what he thought and did not lie. For our Lord said
610 lie. For our Lord said of himself: "A prophet is not without honor except in 624 of himself: "A prophet is not without honor except in his own
611 his own country" (Mt 13:57); "The Lord your God will raise up for you a 625 country" (Mt 13:57); "The Lord your God will raise up for you a
612 prophet…him shall you heed" (Dt 18:15). 626 prophet&hellip;him shall you heed" (Dt 18:15).</p>
613 627 <p>1330 Next (v 18), we see his parents questioned. First, we have
614 <p>1330 Next (v 18), we see his 628 the reason why they were questioned; secondly, the question itself
615 parents questioned. First, we have the reason why they were questioned; 629 (v 19); thirdly their answer (v 20); and fourthly, the reason for
616 secondly, the question itself (v 19); thirdly their answer (v 20); and 630 this answer (v 22).</p>
617 fourthly, the reason for this answer (v 22). 631 <p>1331 The reason for this second questioning was the unbelief of
618 632 the Pharisees. He says, <b>the Jews</b>, that is, the Pharisees,
619 <p>1331 The reason for this 633 <b>did not believe that he had been blind and had received his
620 second questioning was the unbelief of the Pharisees. He says, <b>the Jews</b>, 634 sight, until they called the parents of the man</b>. They did this
621 that is, the Pharisees, <b>did not believe that he had been blind and had 635 in an attempt to nullify the miracle of Christ and to preserve
622 received his sight, until they called the parents of the man</b>. They did this 636 their own glory: "How can you believe, who receive glory from one
623 in an attempt to nullify the miracle of Christ and to preserve their own glory: 637 another?" (Jn 5:44).</p>
624 "How can you believe, who receive glory from one another?" (Jn 5:44). 638 <p>1332 The Pharisees now question his parents. Here they ask about
625 639 three things. First, about their son, saying <b>Is this your
626 <p>1332 The Pharisees now 640 son?</b> Secondly, about his blindness; and so they add, <b>who you
627 question his parents. Here they ask about three things. First, about their son, 641 say was born blind</b>. They did not say, "who at one time was
628 saying <b>Is this your son? </b>Secondly, about his blindness; and so they add, 642 blind," but <b>who you say</b>, implying that they made this up.
629 <b>who you say was born blind</b>. They did not say, "who at one time was 643 What father would lie in such a way about his son? Yet they were
630 blind," but <b>who you say</b>, implying that they made this up. What father 644 trying to make him say he did.</p>
631 would lie in such a way about his son? Yet they were trying to make him say he 645 <p>Thirdly, they ask how he had obtained his sight, <b>How then
632 did. 646 does he now see?</b> This was like saying: Either it is false that
633 647 he now sees, or that he was once blind; but obviously the truth is
634 <p>Thirdly, 648 that he sees; therefore it was false to say that he had been blind:
635 they ask how he had obtained his sight,<b> How then does he now see? </b>This 649 "The powerful man will test you through much talking, and while he
636 was like saying: Either it is false that he now sees, or that he was once 650 smiles he will be examining you" (Sir 13:11).</p>
637 blind; but obviously the truth is that he sees; therefore it was false to say 651 <p>1333 Then, the answer of his parents is given (v 20). The
638 that he had been blind: "The powerful man will test you through much talking, 652 Pharisees had asked about three things; they answer firmly about
639 and while he smiles he will be examining you" (Sir 13:11). 653 two and in regard to the third they refer them to their son. First,
640 654 they admit the first, namely, that he is their son; so they say,
641 <p>1333 Then, the answer of his 655 <b>we know that this is our son</b>. They also admit the second
642 parents is given (v 20). The Pharisees had asked about three things; they 656 when they add, <b>and that he was born blind</b>. This shows that
643 answer firmly about two and in regard to the third they refer them to their 657 the truth always conquers what is false, as we read in the
644 son. First, they admit the first, namely, that he is their son; so they say, <b>we 658 apocryphal 3 Esdras (3:13): "Truth conquers all." Yet as to the
645 know that this is our son</b>. They also admit the second when they add, <b>and 659 third question, how their son sees, they <b>answer, but how he now
646 that he was born blind</b>. This shows that the truth always conquers what is 660 sees we do not know</b>.</p>
647 false, as we read in the apocryphal 3 Esdras (3:13): "Truth conquers all." Yet 661 <p>They reply, secondly, about the person who gave him his sight,
648 as to the third question, how their son sees, they <b>answer, but how he now 662 <b>now do we know who opened his eyes</b>. They answer this way
649 sees we do not know</b>. 663 because the question was directed against the one who gave sight to
650 664 their son, and so they refer this to their son, saying, <b>Ask him,
651 <p>They 665 he is of age</b>. This was like saying: He was born blind, not
652 reply, secondly, about the person who gave him his sight, <b>now do we know who 666 mute; thus he can speak for himself in this matter. The testimony
653 opened his eyes</b>. They answer this way because the question was directed 667 about this miracle was from several sources so as to make it more
654 against the one who gave sight to their son, and so they refer this to their 668 believable: the parents told what they knew, and their blind son
655 son, saying, <b>Ask him, he is of age</b>. This was like saying: He was born 669 confirmed that he had been cured.</p>
656 blind, not mute; thus he can speak for himself in this matter. The testimony 670 <p>1334 The reason for their answer is given when he says, <b>his
657 about this miracle was from several sources so as to make it more believable: 671 parents said this because they feared the Jews</b>; for they were
658 the parents told what they knew, and their blind son confirmed that he had been 672 still imperfect and did not dare do what our Lord says: "Do not
659 cured. 673 fear those who kill the body" (Mt 10:28). The reason for their fear
660 674 was <b>that the Jews had already agreed that if any one should
661 <p>1334 The reason for their 675 confess him to be Christ, he was to be put out of the
662 answer is given when he says, <b>his parents said this because they feared the 676 synagogue</b>. "I have said all this to you to keep you from
663 Jews</b>; for they were still imperfect and did not dare do what our Lord says: 677 falling away. They will put you out of the synagogues" (Jn 16:11).
664 "Do not fear those who kill the body" (Mt 10:28). The reason for their fear was 678 As Augustine says, it was no longer an evil to be cast out of the
665 <b>that the Jews had already agreed that if any one should confess him to be 679 synagogue, for the ones they rejected Christ welcomed.<a href=
666 Christ, he was to be put out of the synagogue</b>. "I have said all this to you 680 "#_ftn20" name="_ftnref20" id="_ftnref20">[20]</a></p>
667 to keep you from falling away. They will put you out of the synagogues" (Jn 681 <p align="center"><b>LECTURE 3</b></p>
668 16:11). As Augustine says, it was no longer an evil to be cast out of the 682 <blockquote>
669 synagogue, for the ones they rejected Christ welcomed.<a href="#_ftn20" 683 <p>24 So for the second time they called the man who had been
670 name="_ftnref20">[20]</a> 684 blind, and said to him, "Give God the praise; we know that this man
671 685 is a sinner." 25 he answered, "Whether he is a sinner, I do not
672 <p align=center><B>LECTURE 3</B> 686 know; one thing I know, that though I was blind, I now see." 26
673 687 They said to him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your
674 <BLOCKQUOTE><p>24 So for the second time 688 eyes?" 27 He answered them, "I have told you already, and you would
675 they called the man who had been blind, and said to him, "Give God the praise; 689 not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you too want to
676 we know that this man is a sinner." 25 he answered, "Whether he is a sinner, I 690 become his disciples?" 28 And they reviled him, saying, "You are
677 do not know; one thing I know, that though I was blind, I now see." 26 They 691 his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. 29 We know that God
678 said to him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?" 27 He answered 692 has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where he
679 them, "I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to 693 comes from." 30 The man answered, "Why, this is a marvel! You do
680 hear it again? Do you too want to become his disciples?" 28 And they reviled 694 not know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. 31 We know
681 him, saying, "You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. 29 We know 695 that God does not listen to sinners, but if any one is a worshipper
682 that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where he 696 of God and does his will, God listens to him. 32 Never since the
683 comes from." 30 The man answered, "Why, this is a marvel! You do not know where 697 world began has it been heard that any one opened the eyes of a man
684 he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. 31 We know that God does not listen 698 born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, he could do nothing."
685 to sinners, but if any one is a worshipper of God and does his will, God 699 34 They answered him, "You were born in utter sin, and would you
686 listens to him. 32 Never since the world began has it been heard that any one 700 teach us?" And they cast him out.<a href="#_ftn21" name="_ftnref21"
687 opened the eyes of a man born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, he could 701 id="_ftnref21"><b>[21]</b></a></p>
688 do nothing." 34 They answered him, "You were born in utter sin, and would you 702 </blockquote>
689 teach us?" And they cast him out.<a href="#_ftn21" name="_ftnref21"><b>[21]</b></a></BLOCKQUOTE> 703 <p>1335 After the questioning of the blind man and his parents, an
690 704 attempt is made to make him deny the truth and affirm what is
691 <p>1335 After the questioning of 705 false. First, they attempt to make him deny the truth; secondly,
692 the blind man and his parents, an attempt is made to make him deny the truth 706 they revile him (v 28); and thirdly, they condemn him (v 34). The
693 and affirm what is false. First, they attempt to make him deny the truth; 707 Evangelist does two things about the first. First, he shows how
694 secondly, they revile him (v 28); and thirdly, they condemn him (v 34). The 708 they tried to get the man born blind to deny the truth; secondly,
695 Evangelist does two things about the first. First, he shows how they tried to 709 how they continued to question him in order to malign him (v 26).
696 get the man born blind to deny the truth; secondly, how they continued to 710 In regard to the first he does two things: first, he shows their
697 question him in order to malign him (v 26). In regard to the first he does two 711 malice; and secondly, the steadfastness of the man born blind (v
698 things: first, he shows their malice; and secondly, the steadfastness of the 712 25). The malice of the Pharisees is shown by their attempt to have
699 man born blind (v 25). The malice of the Pharisees is shown by their attempt to 713 him deny the truth, while the steadfastness of the blind man
700 have him deny the truth, while the steadfastness of the blind man appears by 714 appears by his resolute profession of the truth.</p>
701 his resolute profession of the truth. 715 <p>1336 In regard to the first he says, <b>for the second time they
702 716 called the man who had been blind</b>, for his parents had referred
703 <p>1336 In regard to the first 717 them to the blind man, <b>and said to him: Give God the praise</b>.
704 he says, <b>for the second time they called the man who had been blind</b>, for 718 They say one thing but mean another. For they wish to force him to
705 his parents had referred them to the blind man, <b>and said to him: Give God 719 say that his sight was not restored by Christ, or if they are
706 the praise</b>. They say one thing but mean another. For they wish to force him 720 unable to do this, to force him to admit that he was cured by him
707 to say that his sight was not restored by Christ, or if they are unable to do 721 through sorcery. They do not say this openly, but implicitly, with
708 this, to force him to admit that he was cured by him through sorcery. They do 722 an appearance of devotion. They attempt this by saying, <b>Give God
709 not say this openly, but implicitly, with an appearance of devotion. They attempt 723 the praise</b>. As if to say: Your sight has been given to you. But
710 this by saying, <b>Give God the praise</b>. As if to say: Your sight has been 724 only God can do this. Therefore, you should not attribute this to
711 given to you. But only God can do this. Therefore, you should not attribute 725 anyone but God, and not to this man, that is, Christ, because if
712 this to anyone but God, and not to this man, that is, Christ, because if you do 726 you do this you are indicating that you have not received the gift
713 this you are indicating that you have not received the gift of your healing 727 of your healing from God, for the reason that God does not perform
714 from God, for the reason that God does not perform miracles through sinners. 728 miracles through sinners. Thus they add, <b>we know that this man
715 Thus they add, <b>we know that this man is a sinner</b>. But, as Augustine 729 is a sinner</b>. But, as Augustine says, if he had done this, he
716 says, if he had done this, he would not be giving glory to God but rather, 730 would not be giving glory to God but rather, being ungrateful,
717 being ungrateful, would be blaspheming.<a href="#_ftn22" name="_ftnref22" 731 would be blaspheming.<a href="#_ftn22" name="_ftnref22" title=""
718 title="">[22]</a> 732 id="_ftnref22">[22]</a> But in truth, the Pharisees were lying when
719 But in truth, the Pharisees were lying when they said, <b>we know that this man 733 they said, <b>we know that this man is a sinner</b>; for above
720 is a sinner</b>; for above (8:46), they could not convict him of sin, and he 734 (8:46), they could not convict him of sin, and he said: "which of
721 said: "which of you convicts me of sin?" And no wonder, because "He committed 735 you convicts me of sin?" And no wonder, because "He committed no
722 no sin; no guile was found on his lips" (1 Pet 2:22). 736 sin; no guile was found on his lips" (1 Pet 2:22).</p>
723 737 <p>1337 Here we see the steadfastness of the blind man. For amazed
724 <p>1337 Here we see the 738 at the hardness of the Pharisees, and impatient with what they were
725 steadfastness of the blind man. For amazed at the hardness of the Pharisees, 739 saying, he says, in all truth, <b>Whether he is a sinner, I do not
726 and impatient with what they were saying, he says, in all truth, <b>Whether he 740 know.</b></p>
727 is a sinner, I do not know.</b> 741 <p>Yet because he had said before that "He is a prophet," is he not
728 742 now saying, <b>Whether he is a sinner I do not know</b>, out of
729 <p>Yet 743 fear, as if he were doubtful? Not at all! Rather, he is angry and
730 because he had said before that "He is a prophet," is he not now saying, <b>Whether 744 mocking the Pharisees. He is saying in effect: You say that he is a
731 he is a sinner I do not know</b>, out of fear, as if he were doubtful? Not at 745 sinner; but I do not know that he is a sinner, and I am amazed that
732 all! Rather, he is angry and mocking the Pharisees. He is saying in effect: You 746 you say this, because he accomplished a work which does not seem to
733 say that he is a sinner; but I do not know that he is a sinner, and I am amazed 747 be the work of a sinner, because <b>though I was blind, now I
734 that you say this, because he accomplished a work which does not seem to be the 748 see</b>, by his kindness. According to Augustine, he said this in
735 work of a sinner, because <b>though I was blind, now I see</b>, by his 749 order not to be maligned nor to conceal the truth. For perhaps if
736 kindness. According to Augustine, he said this in order not to be maligned nor 750 he had said, "I know that he is a just man," which was true, they
737 to conceal the truth. For perhaps if he had said, "I know that he is a just 751 would have maligned him.<a href="#_ftn23" name="_ftnref23" id=
738 man," which was true, they would have maligned him.<a href="#_ftn23" 752 "_ftnref23">[23]</a> But according to Chrysostom, he said this to
739 name="_ftnref23">[23]</a> 753 give them a more impressive testimony to the miracle, and to make
740 But according to Chrysostom, he said this to give them a more impressive 754 his answer believable by calling attention to the gift itself he
741 testimony to the miracle, and to make his answer believable by calling 755 received.<a href="#_ftn24" name="_ftnref24" title="" id=
742 attention to the gift itself he received.<a href="#_ftn24" name="_ftnref24" 756 "_ftnref24">[24]</a></p>
743 title="">[24]</a> 757 <p>1338 They again question the man born blind in order to malign
744 758 him. First, we have the cunning interrogation of the Pharisees; and
745 <p>1338 They again question the 759 secondly, the contemptuous reply of the blind man (v 27).</p>
746 man born blind in order to malign him. First, we have the cunning interrogation 760 <p>1339 He says, with respect to the first, <b>They said to him:
747 of the Pharisees; and secondly, the contemptuous reply of the blind man (v 27). 761 What did he do to you?</b> The blind man had said that he had
748 762 received his sight from Christ, which the Pharisees had not asked
749 <p>1339 He says, with respect to 763 about. It was their intention to malign Christ, so they now ask
750 the first, <b>They said to him: What did he do to you? </b>The blind man had 764 rather how he did it. So they did not ask "How is it that you see?"
751 said that he had received his sight from Christ, which the Pharisees had not 765 but <b>How did he open your eyes?</b> It was like saying: "He did
752 asked about. It was their intention to malign Christ, so they now ask rather 766 this by some trick or sorcery, didn't he?" "Those who seek my hurt
753 how he did it. So they did not ask "How is it that you see?" but <b>How did he 767 speak of ruin, and meditate treachery all the day long" (Ps
754 open your eyes? </b>It was like saying: "He did this by some trick or sorcery, 768 38:12).</p>
755 didn't he?" "Those who seek my hurt speak of ruin, and meditate treachery all 769 <p>1340 Now the man's answer is given. The man born blind, because
756 the day long" (Ps 38:12). 770 he really had received his sight, answers them further, not
757 771 timidly, but with boldness. He first belittles the repeated
758 <p>1340 Now the man's answer is 772 questioning of the Pharisees, saying, <b>I have told you already
759 given. The man born blind, because he really had received his sight, answers 773 and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again?</b>
760 them further, not timidly, but with boldness. He first belittles the repeated 774 This was like saying: I told you once. Why do you want to hear it
761 questioning of the Pharisees, saying, <b>I have told you already and you would 775 again? That's foolish! It looks like you are not paying attention
762 not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? </b>This was like saying: I told 776 to what I am saying. So, I have nothing further to say to you
763 you once. Why do you want to hear it again? That's foolish! It looks like you 777 because your questioning is useless, and you want to cavil rather
764 are not paying attention to what I am saying. So, I have nothing further to say 778 than learn. "He who tells a story to a fool tells it to a drowsy
765 to you because your questioning is useless, and you want to cavil rather than 779 man; and at the end he will say: 'What is it'" (Sir 22:8).</p>
766 learn. "He who tells a story to a fool tells it to a drowsy man; and at the end 780 <p>Secondly, he mocks the presumptuous intention of the Pharisees,
767 he will say: 'What is it'" (Sir 22:8). 781 saying, <b>Do you too want to become his disciples?</b> When
768 782 someone carefully investigates a matter, he does so either with a
769 <p>Secondly, 783 good intention, to accept it, or with an evil intention, to condemn
770 he mocks the presumptuous intention of the Pharisees, saying, <b>Do you too 784 it. Now because the Pharisees were carefully investigating this,
771 want to become his disciples? </b>When someone carefully investigates a matter, 785 and because the man born blind did not dare impute an evil
772 he does so either with a good intention, to accept it, or with an evil 786 intention to them, he takes the alternative, saying, <b>Do you too
773 intention, to condemn it. Now because the Pharisees were carefully 787 want to become his disciples?</b> He means by this: If you are not
774 investigating this, and because the man born blind did not dare impute an evil 788 investigating this maliciously, you therefore wish to join him:
775 intention to them, he takes the alternative, saying, <b>Do you too want to 789 "Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard his spots? Then
776 become his disciples? </b>He means by this: If you are not investigating this 790 also you can do good who are accustomed to do evil" (Jer 13:23). As
777 maliciously, you therefore wish to join him: "Can the Ethiopian change his skin 791 Augustine says: The one who had received his sight gladly desired
778 or the leopard his spots? Then also you can do good who are accustomed to do 792 to give them light.<a href="#_ftn25" name="_ftnref25" id=
779 evil" (Jer 13:23). As Augustine says: The one who had received his sight gladly 793 "_ftnref25">[25]</a> Thus, he significantly says, <b>you too</b>,
780 desired to give them light.<a href="#_ftn25" name="_ftnref25">[25]</a> 794 implying that he himself was a disciple. He is saying in effect:
781 Thus, he significantly says, <b>you too</b>, implying that he himself was a 795 <b>Do you want to become his disciples</b> as I am? I already see,
782 disciple. He is saying in effect: <b>Do you want to become his disciples </b>as 796 and do not envy your coming to the light. And as Chrysostom says,
783 I am? I already see, and do not envy your coming to the light. And as 797 from the steadfastness of the blind man we can see how strong truth
784 Chrysostom says, from the steadfastness of the blind man we can see how strong 798 really is, for when it convinces the lowly, it makes them noble and
785 truth really is, for when it convinces the lowly, it makes them noble and 799 strong. And we can see how weak is a lie, which even if it is
786 strong. And we can see how weak is a lie, which even if it is maintained by the 800 maintained by the powerful, shows and makes them weak.<a href=
787 powerful, shows and makes them weak.<a href="#_ftn26" name="_ftnref26">[26]</a> 801 "#_ftn26" name="_ftnref26" id="_ftnref26">[26]</a></p>
788 802 <p>1341 Next, the Pharisees revile the man born blind. First, we
789 <p>1341 Next, the Pharisees 803 see them revile him; then, secondly, the defense of the blind man
790 revile the man born blind. First, we see them revile him; then, secondly, the 804 (v 30). He does two things concerning the first: first, he presents
791 defense of the blind man (v 30). He does two things concerning the first: 805 the revilement of the Pharisees; secondly, the reason behind it (v
792 first, he presents the revilement of the Pharisees; secondly, the reason behind 806 28b).</p>
793 it (v 28b). 807 <p>1342 With respect to the first he says, <b>and they reviled him,
794 808 saying, You are his disciple</b>. This is, indeed, scornful, if you
795 <p>1342 With respect to the 809 consider their vicious hearts. But if you consider their words, it
796 first he says, <b>and they reviled him, saying, You are his disciple</b>. This 810 is the greatest blessing. May we and our children be treated with
797 is, indeed, scornful, if you consider their vicious hearts. But if you consider 811 such scorn! "If you continue in my word, you are truly my
798 their words, it is the greatest blessing. May we and our children be treated 812 disciples" (Jn 8:31). Still, the Evangelist stated that they
799 with such scorn! "If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples" (Jn 813 reviled him by saying this because what they said came from their
800 8:31). Still, the Evangelist stated that they reviled him by saying this 814 evil hearts: "Like the glaze covering an earthen vessel are smooth
801 because what they said came from their evil hearts: "Like the glaze covering an 815 lips with an evil heart" (Prov 26:23). We read about this
802 earthen vessel are smooth lips with an evil heart" (Prov 26:23). We read about 816 revilement in the Psalm 109 (v 28): "let them curse, but do thou
803 this revilement in the Psalm 109 (v 28): "let them curse, but do thou bless"; 817 bless"; and in Matthew (5:11): "Blessed are you when men revile
804 and in Matthew (5:11): "Blessed are you when men revile you." 818 you."</p>
805 819 <p>1343 He next adds the reason for their reviling when he says,
806 <p>1343 He next adds the reason 820 <b>we are disciples of Moses</b>. They were thinking of how they
807 for their reviling when he says,<b> we are disciples of Moses</b>.<b> </b>They 821 were ridiculed by the man born blind when he asked if they wanted
808 were thinking of how they were ridiculed by the man born blind when he asked if 822 to become Christ's disciples; for they took pride in being
809 they wanted to become Christ's disciples; for they took pride in being 823 disciples of Moses, whom they thought was greater. First, they set
810 disciples of Moses, whom they thought was greater. First, they set forth their 824 forth their own situation, saying, <b>we are disciples of
811 own situation, saying, <b>we are disciples of Moses</b>. But this pride of 825 Moses</b>. But this pride of theirs is false, because they neither
812 theirs is false, because they neither followed Moses nor fulfilled his 826 followed Moses nor fulfilled his commands: "If you believed Moses,
813 commands: "If you believed Moses, you would believe me" (Jn 5:46); this was 827 you would believe me" (Jn 5:46); this was like saying: You do not
814 like saying: You do not follow the servant [Moses], and later go against his 828 follow the servant [Moses], and later go against his Lord.</p>
815 Lord. 829 <p>Secondly, they praise the dignity of Moses when they say, <b>we
816 830 know that God has spoken to Moses</b>. Here they are telling the
817 <p>Secondly, 831 truth, for as we read: "The Lord used to speak to Moses face to
818 they praise the dignity of Moses when they say, <b>we know that God has spoken 832 face, as a man speaks to his friend" (Ex 33:11); and "If there is a
819 to Moses</b>. Here they are telling the truth, for as we read: "The Lord used 833 prophet among you, I, the Lord, make myself known to him in a
820 to speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend" (Ex 33:11); and 834 vision, I speak with him in a dream. Not so with my servant Moses;
821 "If there is a prophet among you, I, the Lord, make myself known to him in a 835 he is entrusted with all my house. With him I speak mouth to mouth"
822 vision, I speak with him in a dream. Not so with my servant Moses; he is 836 (Num 12:6). Thus God spoke to Moses in a more excellent way than to
823 entrusted with all my house. With him I speak mouth to mouth" (Num 12:6). Thus 837 the other prophets. And it is about this that they are speaking.
824 God spoke to Moses in a more excellent way than to the other prophets. And it 838 However, it is clear that since God spoke his Word to Moses, the
825 is about this that they are speaking. However, it is clear that since God spoke 839 dignity of Moses came from the Word of God. And so the Word of God
826 his Word to Moses, the dignity of Moses came from the Word of God. And so the 840 is of greater dignity than Moses: "Yet Jesus has been counted
827 Word of God is of greater dignity than Moses: "Yet Jesus has been counted 841 worthy of as much more glory than Moses as the builder of a house
828 worthy of as much more glory than Moses as the builder of a house has more 842 has more honor than the house" (Heb 3:3).</p>
829 honor than the house" (Heb 3:3). 843 <p>Thirdly, they hint at the dignity of Christ in a veiled manner
830 844 when they say, <b>as for this man</b>, Christ, <b>we do not know
831 <p>Thirdly, 845 where he comes from</b>. This is true, but not the way they
832 they hint at the dignity of Christ in a veiled manner when they say, <b>as for 846 understood it: for they did not know the Father, and Christ was
833 this man</b>, Christ, <b>we do not know where he comes from</b>. This is true, 847 from the Father: "you know neither me nor my Father" (8:19). But
834 but not the way they understood it: for they did not know the Father, and 848 their statement is false as they understood it, for when they said,
835 Christ was from the Father: "you know neither me nor my Father" (8:19). But 849 we do <b>not know where he comes from</b>, they meant he had no
836 their statement is false as they understood it, for when they said, we do <b>not 850 authority and was unverified, so that is was not clear whether or
837 know where he comes from</b>, they meant he had no authority and was 851 not he came from God. They seem to be applying to him the words of
838 unverified, so that is was not clear whether or not he came from God. They seem 852 Jeremiah: "I did not send you prophets, yet they ran" (23:21).</p>
839 to be applying to him the words of Jeremiah: "I did not send you prophets, yet 853 <p>1344 Now, the blind man's argument against the Pharisees is
840 they ran" (23:21). 854 presented. First, he is amazed at their harness of heart; secondly,
841 855 he refutes their false opinion (v 31).</p>
842 <p>1344 Now, the blind man's 856 <p>1345 Concerning the first, we must recall that we are not amazed
843 argument against the Pharisees is presented. First, he is amazed at their 857 at what happens frequently, and in the usual way; but we are amazed
844 harness of heart; secondly, he refutes their false opinion (v 31). 858 at what is unusual and great, whether this be good or evil. We are
845 859 struck by unusual and great good: "you are wonderful, my Lord, and
846 <p>1345 Concerning the first, we 860 your countenance is full of grace," as we read in Esther [15:17].
847 must recall that we are not amazed at what happens frequently, and in the usual 861 We are also amazed at great evil: "Be appalled, O heavens, at
848 way; but we are amazed at what is unusual and great, whether this be good or 862 this&hellip;for my people have committed two evils" (Jer 2:12). In
849 evil. We are struck by unusual and great good: "you are wonderful, my Lord, and 863 line with this, the blind man says in answer, <b>Why this is a
850 your countenance is full of grace," as we read in Esther [15:17]. We are also amazed 864 marvel! You do not know where he comes from</b>. He is saying in
851 at great evil: "Be appalled, O heavens, at this…for my people have committed 865 effect: It would not be remarkable if you regarded someone
852 two evils" (Jer 2:12). In line with this, the blind man says in answer, <b>Why 866 insignificant and like me as having no authority. But it is
853 this is a marvel! You do not know where he comes from</b>. He is saying in 867 extremely amazing that you can see an explicit and evident sign of
854 effect: It would not be remarkable if you regarded someone insignificant and 868 divine power in Christ and say that you do not know where he comes
855 like me as having no authority. But it is extremely amazing that you can see an 869 from, especially because he did open my eyes.</p>
856 explicit and evident sign of divine power in Christ and say that you do not 870 <p>1346 The man born blind refutes their false opinion by saying,
857 know where he comes from, especially because he did open my eyes. 871 <b>we know that God does not listen to sinners</b>. He is reasoning
858 872 this way: Whomever God hears is from God; but God heard Christ;
859 <p>1346 The man born blind 873 therefore, Christ is from God. He first states his main premise;
860 refutes their false opinion by saying, <b>we know that God does not listen to 874 then the minor premise (v 32); and thirdly, he draws his conclusion
861 sinners</b>. He is reasoning this way: Whomever God hears is from God; but God 875 (v 33). He does two things abut the first: first, he mentions those
862 heard Christ; therefore, Christ is from God. He first states his main premise; 876 whom God does not hear; secondly, those he does hear (v 31b).</p>
863 then the minor premise (v 32); and thirdly, he draws his conclusion (v 33). He 877 <p>1347 God does not hear sinners. In regard to this he says, <b>we
864 does two things abut the first: first, he mentions those whom God does not 878 know that God does not hear sinners</b>. He is saying: Both you and
865 hear; secondly, those he does hear (v 31b). 879 I agree that sinners are not heard by God. Thus a Psalm says, "They
866 880 cried to the Lord and he did not hear them"; and again, "Then they
867 <p>1347 God does not hear 881 will call upon me, but I will not answer" (Prov 1:28). But there
868 sinners. In regard to this he says, <b>we know that God does not hear sinners</b>. 882 are statements which contradict this: "If they sin against thee -
869 He is saying: Both you and I agree that sinners are not heard by God. Thus a 883 for there is no man who does not sin - but later repent with all
870 Psalm says, "They cried to the Lord and he did not hear them"; and again, "Then 884 their heart, then hear thou from heaven and forgive thy people" [2
871 they will call upon me, but I will not answer" (Prov 1:28). But there are 885 Chron 6:36-39]; and in Luke (18:14) we read that the tax collector
872 statements which contradict this: "If they sin against thee - for there is no 886 "went down to his house justified."</p>
873 man who does not sin - but later repent with all their heart, then hear thou 887 <p>Because of this Augustine says that this blind man is speaking
874 from heaven and forgive thy people" [2 Chron 6:36-39]; and in Luke (18:14) we 888 as one who has not been anointed, as one who does not yet have
875 read that the tax collector "went down to his house justified." 889 complete knowledge. For God does hear sinners, otherwise it would
876 890 have been futile for the tax collector to have prayed: "God, be
877 <p>Because 891 merciful to me a sinner." Accordingly, if we wish to save the
878 of this Augustine says that this blind man is speaking as one who has not been 892 statement of the blind man we must say that God does not hear those
879 anointed, as one who does not yet have complete knowledge. For God does hear 893 sinners who persist in their sinning; but he does hear those
880 sinners, otherwise it would have been futile for the tax collector to have 894 sinners who are sorry for their sins, and who should be regarded
881 prayed: "God, be merciful to me a sinner." Accordingly, if we wish to save the 895 more as repentant than as sinners. <a href="#_ftn27" name=
882 statement of the blind man we must say that God does not hear those sinners who 896 "_ftnref27" id="_ftnref27">[27]</a></p>
883 persist in their sinning; but he does hear those sinners who are sorry for 897 <p>1348 Yet there is a difficulty here. It is clear that miracles
884 their sins, and who should be regarded more as repentant than as sinners. <a href="#_ftn27" name="_ftnref27">[27]</a> 898 are not accomplished by us due to our own power, but through
885 899 prayer. But sinners often perform miracles: "Lord, Lord, did we not
886 <p>1348 Yet there is a 900 prophesy in your name&hellip;and do many might works in your name?"
887 difficulty here. It is clear that miracles are not accomplished by us due to 901 (Mt 7:22); and yet God did not know them. Thus, what the blind man
888 our own power, but through prayer. But sinners often perform miracles: "Lord, 902 said does not seems to be true, namely, <b>we know that God does
889 Lord, did we not prophesy in your name…and do many might works in your name?" 903 not listen to sinners</b>.</p>
890 (Mt 7:22); and yet God did not know them. Thus, what the blind man said does 904 <p>There are two answers to this. The first is general. Prayer has
891 not seems to be true, namely, <b>we know that God does not listen to sinners</b>. 905 two characteristics, that is, it can obtain [what it asks for] and
892 906 it can merit. Thus, sometimes it obtains what it asks, and does not
893 <p>There 907 merit; at other times, it merits and does not obtain. And so
894 are two answers to this. The first is general. Prayer has two characteristics, 908 nothing prevents the prayer of a sinner from obtaining what it asks
895 that is, it can obtain [what it asks for] and it can merit. Thus, sometimes it 909 although it does not merit. This is the way that God hears sinners;
896 obtains what it asks, and does not merit; at other times, it merits and does 910 not as a matter of merit, but they obtain what they ask from the
897 not obtain. And so nothing prevents the prayer of a sinner from obtaining what 911 divine power, which they acknowledge. The other answer is special
898 it asks although it does not merit. This is the way that God hears sinners; not 912 and applies to this particular case, when the miracle that was done
899 as a matter of merit, but they obtain what they ask from the divine power, 913 makes known the person of Christ.</p>
900 which they acknowledge. The other answer is special and applies to this 914 <p>&nbsp;</p>
901 particular case, when the miracle that was done makes known the person of 915 <p>1349 It should be mentioned that every miracle is a sort of
902 Christ. 916 testimony. Sometimes, a miracle is accomplished as a testimony to
903 917 the truth that is being preached; at other times, it is a testimony
904 <p>&nbsp; 918 to the person performing it. We must also realize that no true
905 919 miracle happens except by the divine power, and that God is never a
906 <p>1349 It should be mentioned 920 witness to a lie. I say, therefore, that whenever a miracle is
907 that every miracle is a sort of testimony. Sometimes, a miracle is accomplished 921 performed in testimony to a doctrine that is being preached, that
908 as a testimony to the truth that is being preached; at other times, it is a 922 doctrine must be true, even if the person who is preaching it is
909 testimony to the person performing it. We must also realize that no true 923 not good. And when it is performed in testimony to the person, it
910 miracle happens except by the divine power, and that God is never a witness to 924 is also necessary that the person be good. Now it is evident that
911 a lie. I say, therefore, that whenever a miracle is performed in testimony to a 925 the miracles of Christ were performed in testimony to his person:
912 doctrine that is being preached, that doctrine must be true, even if the person 926 "The works which the Father has granted me to
913 who is preaching it is not good. And when it is performed in testimony to the 927 accomplish&hellip;bear me witness that the Father has sent me"
914 person, it is also necessary that the person be good. Now it is evident that 928 (5:36). It was with this meaning that the blind man said that
915 the miracles of Christ were performed in testimony to his person: "The works 929 <b>God does not listen to sinners</b>, that is, so that they could
916 which the Father has granted me to accomplish…bear me witness that the Father 930 perform miracles as a testimony to their supposed holiness.
917 has sent me" (5:36). It was with this meaning that the blind man said that <b>God 931 <a href="#_ftn28" name="_ftnref28" id="_ftnref28">[28]</a></p>
918 does not listen to sinners</b>, that is, so that they could perform miracles as 932 <p>1350 Then when he says, <b>but if any one is a worshiper of
919 a testimony to their supposed holiness. <a 933 God</b>&hellip;he shows that God hears the just through merit. We
920 href="#_ftn28" name="_ftnref28">[28]</a> 934 must realize that the performing of miracles is attributed to
921 935 faith: "If you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and cast into the
922 <p>1350 Then when he says, <b>but 936 sea,' it will be done" (Mt 21:21). The reason for this is that
923 if any one is a worshiper of God</b>…he shows that God hears the just through 937 miracles are accomplished by the omnipotence of God, on which faith
924 merit. We must realize that the performing of miracles is attributed to faith: 938 relies. Therefore, whoever wishes to obtain something from God has
925 "If you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and cast into the sea,' it will be 939 to have faith: "Let him ask in faith" (Jas 1:6). However, if he
926 done" (Mt 21:21). The reason for this is that miracles are accomplished by the 940 wishes to obtain it through merit, he must do God's will. And these
927 omnipotence of God, on which faith relies. Therefore, whoever wishes to obtain 941 two conditions are mentioned here. As to the first, he says, <b>If
928 something from God has to have faith: "Let him ask in faith" (Jas 1:6). 942 any one is a worshipper of God</b> by sacrifices and offerings:
929 However, if he wishes to obtain it through merit, he must do God's will. And 943 "They will worship him with sacrifice and burnt offering" (Is
930 these two conditions are mentioned here. As to the first, he says, <b>If any 944 19:21). These belong to the worship of <i>latria</i>, which attests
931 one is a worshipper of God</b> by sacrifices and offerings: "They will worship 945 to one's faith. As to the second he says, <b>and does his will</b>
932 him with sacrifice and burnt offering" (Is 19:21). These belong to the worship 946 by obeying his commandments, <b>God listens to him</b>.</p>
933 of <i>latria</i>, which attests to one's faith. As to the second he says, <b>and 947 <p>1351 Here he takes the minor premise of his argument. He is
934 does his will</b> by obeying his commandments, <b>God listens to him</b>. 948 saying: Because of what Christ did, which no man has ever done, it
935 949 is obvious that he did this by the action of God, and that he has
936 <p>1351 Here he takes the minor 950 been heard by God: "If I had not done among them the works which no
937 premise of his argument. He is saying: Because of what Christ did, which no man 951 one else did, they would not have sin" (Jn 15:24).</p>
938 has ever done, it is obvious that he did this by the action of God, and that he 952 <p>1352 Next, he draws his conclusion. He is saying, in effect:
939 has been heard by God: "If I had not done among them the works which no one 953 From the kind of works that Christ does, it is obvious that he is
940 else did, they would not have sin" (Jn 15:24). 954 from God. For <b>if this man were not from God, he could do
941 955 nothing</b>, that is, freely, often and truly, because "apart from
942 <p>1352 Next, he draws his 956 me you can do nothing" (15:5).</p>
943 conclusion. He is saying, in effect: From the kind of works that Christ does, 957 <p>1353 Here the Pharisees condemn the blind man. In this
944 it is obvious that he is from God. For <b>if this man were not from God, he 958 condemnation they fall into three defects or sins, namely, untruth,
945 could do nothing</b>, that is, freely, often and truly, because "apart from me 959 pride, and injustice. They fall into untruth in reviling the blind
946 you can do nothing" (15:5). 960 man, <b>saying, you were born in utter sin</b>. Here it should be
947 961 noted that the Jews were of the opinion that all infirmities and
948 <p>1353 Here the Pharisees 962 temporal adversities beset us on account of our previous sins. This
949 condemn the blind man. In this condemnation they fall into three defects or 963 was the opinion given by Eliphaz: "Think now, who that was innocent
950 sins, namely, untruth, pride, and injustice. They fall into untruth in reviling 964 ever perished? Or where were the upright cut off? As I have seen
951 the blind man, <b>saying, you were born in utter sin</b>. Here it should be 965 those who plow iniquity and sow trouble reap the same. By the
952 noted that the Jews were of the opinion that all infirmities and temporal 966 breath of God they perish" (Job 4:7). The reason for this opinion
953 adversities beset us on account of our previous sins. This was the opinion 967 is that in the Old Law temporal goods were promised to the good,
954 given by Eliphaz: "Think now, who that was innocent ever perished? Or where 968 and temporal punishment to the evil: "If you are willing and
955 were the upright cut off? As I have seen those who plow iniquity and sow 969 obedient, you shall eat the good of the land" (Is 1:19). Therefore,
956 trouble reap the same. By the breath of God they perish" (Job 4:7). The reason 970 seeing that this man had been born blind, they believed that this
957 for this opinion is that in the Old Law temporal goods were promised to the 971 happened on account of his sins, and so they say, <b>you were born
958 good, and temporal punishment to the evil: "If you are willing and obedient, 972 in utter sin</b>. But they were wrong, because the Lord said: "It
959 you shall eat the good of the land" (Is 1:19). Therefore, seeing that this man 973 was not that this man sinned, or his parents."</p>
960 had been born blind, they believed that this happened on account of his sins, and 974 <p>They say <b>in utter sin</b> to show that he is defiled by sins
961 so they say, <b>you were born in utter sin</b>. But they were wrong, because 975 not only in his soul, insofar as all of us are born sinners, but
962 the Lord said: "It was not that this man sinned, or his parents." 976 even as regards the traces of sin which appear in his body, as
963 977 blindness. Or according to Chrysostom, <b>in utter sin</b> means
964 <p>They 978 that he was in sin all his life, from his earliest years.<a href=
965 say <b>in utter sin </b>to show that he is defiled by sins not only in his 979 "#_ftn29" name="_ftnref29" id="_ftnref29">[29]</a></p>
966 soul, insofar as all of us are born sinners, but even as regards the traces of 980 <p>They are guilty of pride by rejecting what the man born blind
967 sin which appear in his body, as blindness. Or according to Chrysostom, <b>in 981 was teaching, when they say, <b>Would you teach us?</b> This was
968 utter sin</b> means that he was in sin all his life, from his earliest years.<a 982 like saying: You are not worthy. This makes their pride clear: for
969 href="#_ftn29" name="_ftnref29">[29]</a> 983 no person, no matter however wise, ought to reject being taught by
970 984 any inferior. Thus the Apostle teaches (1 Cor 14:30) that if
971 <p>They 985 something is revealed to one who is inferior, those who are greater
972 are guilty of pride by rejecting what the man born blind was teaching, when 986 should keep silent and listen. In Daniel we read that all the
973 they say, <b>Would you teach us? </b>This was like saying: You are not worthy. 987 people, and the elders, listened to the judgment of a young boy,
974 This makes their pride clear: for no person, no matter however wise, ought to 988 Daniel, whose spirit has been raised up by God.</p>
975 reject being taught by any inferior. Thus the Apostle teaches (1 Cor 14:30) 989 <p>They are guilty of injustice by unjustly casting him out. Thus
976 that if something is revealed to one who is inferior, those who are greater 990 we read, <b>and they cast him out</b>, that is, because he spoke
977 should keep silent and listen. In Daniel we read that all the people, and the 991 the truth. However, in this man born blind there is already
978 elders, listened to the judgment of a young boy, Daniel, whose spirit has been 992 fulfilled what our Lord had said: "Blessed are you when men hate
979 raised up by God. 993 you, and when they exclude you and revile you, and cast out your
980 994 name as evil, on account of the Son of man!" (Lk 6:22).</p>
981 <p>They 995 <p align="center"><b>LECTURE 4</b></p>
982 are guilty of injustice by unjustly casting him out. Thus we read, <b>and they 996 <blockquote>
983 cast him out</b>, that is, because he spoke the truth. However, in this man 997 <p>35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out, and having found him
984 born blind there is already fulfilled what our Lord had said: "Blessed are you 998 he said, "Do you believe in the Son of God?" 36 He answered, "And
985 when men hate you, and when they exclude you and revile you, and cast out your 999 who is he, sir, that I may believe in him?" 37 Jesus said to him,
986 name as evil, on account of the Son of man!" (Lk 6:22). 1000 "You have seen him, and it is he who speaks to you." 38 He said,
987 1001 "Lord, I believe"; and he worshiped him. 39 Jesus said, "For
988 <p align=center><B>LECTURE 4</B> 1002 judgment I came into this world, that those who do not see may see,
989 1003 and that those who see may become blind." 40 Some of the Pharisees
990 <BLOCKQUOTE><p>35 Jesus heard that they 1004 near him heard this, and they said to him, "Are we also blind?" 41
991 had cast him out, and having found him he said, "Do you believe in the Son of 1005 Jesus said to them, "If you were blind, you would have no guilt;
992 God?" 36 He answered, "And who is he, sir, that I may believe in him?" 37 Jesus 1006 but now that you say, 'we see', your guilt remains."<a href=
993 said to him, "You have seen him, and it is he who speaks to you." 38 He said, 1007 "#_ftn30" name="_ftnref30" id="_ftnref30"><b>[30]</b></a></p>
994 "Lord, I believe"; and he worshiped him. 39 Jesus said, "For judgment I came 1008 </blockquote>
995 into this world, that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may 1009 <p>1354 After the Evangelist showed how the Jews cast out the man
996 become blind." 40 Some of the Pharisees near him heard this, and they said to 1010 born blind because he persisted in the truth, he here shows how
997 him, "Are we also blind?" 41 Jesus said to them, "If you were blind, you would 1011 Jesus received him and taught him. First, we see Christ teaching
998 have no guilt; but now that you say, 'we see', your guilt remains."<a 1012 him; secondly, the devotion of the man born blind (v 38); thirdly,
999 href="#_ftn30" name="_ftnref30"><b>[30]</b></a></BLOCKQUOTE> 1013 the approval of his devotion (v 39). He does three things about the
1000 1014 first. First, he shows the eagerness of Christ to teach him;
1001 <p>1354 After the Evangelist 1015 secondly, we see the desire of the man born blind to believe (v
1002 showed how the Jews cast out the man born blind because he persisted in the 1016 36); and thirdly, the teaching of the faith is given to perfect him
1003 truth, he here shows how Jesus received him and taught him. First, we see 1017 (v 37).</p>
1004 Christ teaching him; secondly, the devotion of the man born blind (v 38); 1018 <p>1355 Christ's eagerness to teach is described in three ways.
1005 thirdly, the approval of his devotion (v 39). He does three things about the 1019 First, by his attentive consideration to what was done to the man
1006 first. First, he shows the eagerness of Christ to teach him; secondly, we see 1020 born blind. For just as a trainer carefully considers what his
1007 the desire of the man born blind to believe (v 36); and thirdly, the teaching 1021 athlete undergoes for his sake, so Christ attentively considered
1008 of the faith is given to perfect him (v 37). 1022 what the man born blind underwent for the sake of the truth and
1009 1023 because of his assertions. And so he says that <b>Jesus heard</b>,
1010 <p>1355 Christ's eagerness to 1024 attentively considered, that the Pharisees <b>had cast him out</b>,
1011 teach is described in three ways. First, by his attentive consideration to what 1025 of the temple: "Give heed to me, O Lord, and to the voices of my
1012 was done to the man born blind. For just as a trainer carefully considers what 1026 adversaries" [Jer 18:19].</p>
1013 his athlete undergoes for his sake, so Christ attentively considered what the 1027 <p>Secondly, we see Christ's eagerness from his efforts in
1014 man born blind underwent for the sake of the truth and because of his 1028 searching for him, for the Evangelist says, <b>and having found
1015 assertions. And so he says that <b>Jesus heard</b>, attentively considered, 1029 him</b>; for we are said to find what we diligently seek: "She
1016 that the Pharisees <b>had cast him out</b>, of the temple: "Give heed to me, O 1030 seeks diligently, until she finds it" (Lk 15:8). It is clear from
1017 Lord, and to the voices of my adversaries" [Jer 18:19]. 1031 this that Christ was looking for him alone, because he found more
1018 1032 faith in him alone that in all the others. And we can see from this
1019 <p>Secondly, 1033 that God loves one just person more than ten thousand sinners: "I
1020 we see Christ's eagerness from his efforts in searching for him, for the 1034 will make men more rare than fine gold, and mankind than the gold
1021 Evangelist says, <b>and having found him</b>; for we are said to find what we 1035 of Ophir" (Is 13:12). And in Genesis we read that God was willing
1022 diligently seek: "She seeks diligently, until she finds it" (Lk 15:8). It is 1036 to spare Sodom for the sake of ten just men.</p>
1023 clear from this that Christ was looking for him alone, because he found more 1037 <p>Thirdly, our Lord's eagerness is seen from the seriousness of
1024 faith in him alone that in all the others. And we can see from this that God 1038 his question; he said, <b>Do you believe in the Son of God?</b> The
1025 loves one just person more than ten thousand sinners: "I will make men more 1039 blind man was an image of those to be baptized. Thus the custom
1026 rare than fine gold, and mankind than the gold of Ophir" (Is 13:12). And in 1040 arose in the Church of questioning those to be baptized about their
1027 Genesis we read that God was willing to spare Sodom for the sake of ten just 1041 faith: "Baptism&hellip;now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from
1028 men. 1042 the body, but as an appeal to God for a clean conscience" (1 Pet
1029 1043 3:21). When asked about his faith he does not say, "Do you believe
1030 <p>Thirdly, 1044 in Christ?" but <b>Do you believe in the Son of God?</b> He does
1031 our Lord's eagerness is seen from the seriousness of his question; he said, <b>Do 1045 this, as Hilary says, because it would develop that some would
1032 you believe in the Son of God?</b> The blind man was an image of those to be 1046 profess Christ, and yet deny that he was the Son of God and God, as
1033 baptized. Thus the custom arose in the Church of questioning those to be 1047 Arius erred.<a href="#_ftn31" name="_ftnref31" id=
1034 baptized about their faith: "Baptism…now saves you, not as a removal of dirt 1048 "_ftnref31">[31]</a> These words clearly exclude this error: for if
1035 from the body, but as an appeal to God for a clean conscience" (1 Pet 3:21). When 1049 Christ were not God, we would not have to believe in him, since God
1036 asked about his faith he does not say, "Do you believe in Christ?" but <b>Do 1050 alone is the object of faith, which rests on the first truth. Thus
1037 you believe in the Son of God?</b> He does this, as Hilary says, because it 1051 he significantly says, <b>in the Son</b> (<i>in Filium</i>); for I
1038 would develop that some would profess Christ, and yet deny that he was the Son 1052 am certainly able to believe some creature, such as Peter and Paul
1039 of God and God, as Arius erred.<a href="#_ftn31" name="_ftnref31">[31]</a> 1053 (<i>credere Petro et Paulo</i>), yet I do not believe in Peter
1040 These words clearly exclude this error: for if Christ were not God, we would 1054 (<i>credere in Petrum</i>), but in God (<i>in Deum</i>) alone as
1041 not have to believe in him, since God alone is the object of faith, which rests 1055 the object of faith [cf. no. 901]. Thus it is clear that the Son of
1042 on the first truth. Thus he significantly says, <b>in the Son </b>(<i>in Filium</i>); 1056 God is not a creature: "You believe in God, believe also in me" (Jn
1043 for I am certainly able to believe some creature, such as Peter and Paul (<i>credere 1057 14:1).</p>
1044 Petro et Paulo</i>), yet I do not believe in Peter (<i>credere in Petrum</i>), 1058 <p>1356 Next he mentions the desire of the man born blind to
1045 but in God (<i>in Deum</i>) alone as the object of faith [cf. no. 901]. Thus it 1059 believe. We have to recall that this man had not yet physically
1046 is clear that the Son of God is not a creature: "You believe in God, believe 1060 seen Christ: for he had not seen him when Christ anointed his eyes
1047 also in me" (Jn 14:1). 1061 and sent him to the pool of Siloam, and when he wanted to go back
1048 1062 to him he was detained by the Pharisees and the Jews. However,
1049 <p>1356 Next he mentions the 1063 although he had not physically seen Jesus, he believed that the one
1050 desire of the man born blind to believe. We have to recall that this man had 1064 who opened his eyes was the Son of God. And so he breaks out in
1051 not yet physically seen Christ: for he had not seen him when Christ anointed 1065 words of desire and intense longing, and says, <b>And who is he,
1052 his eyes and sent him to the pool of Siloam, and when he wanted to go back to 1066 sir</b>, namely, the Son of God, who opened my eyes, <b>that I may
1053 him he was detained by the Pharisees and the Jews. However, although he had not 1067 believe in him?</b> It is clear from this that he knew something
1054 physically seen Jesus, he believed that the one who opened his eyes was the Son 1068 about Jesus, and did not know other things about him. For if he had
1055 of God. And so he breaks out in words of desire and intense longing, and says, <b>And 1069 not known him, he would not have argued so firmly on his behalf;
1056 who is he, sir</b>, namely, the Son of God, who opened my eyes, <b>that I may 1070 and if he had not been ignorant of other things, he certainly would
1057 believe in him? </b>It is clear from this that he knew something about Jesus, 1071 not have said, <b>Who is he, sir?</b> "My soul yearns for you in
1058 and did not know other things about him. For if he had not known him, he would 1072 the night," that is, the night of ignorance (Is 26:9).</p>
1059 not have argued so firmly on his behalf; and if he had not been ignorant of 1073 <p>1357 Because, as we read in Wisdom (6:16), "She," that is,
1060 other things, he certainly would not have said, <b>Who is he, sir? </b>"My soul 1074 Wisdom, "goes about seeking those worthy of her," Christ reveals
1061 yearns for you in the night," that is, the night of ignorance (Is 26:9). 1075 himself to the man born blind, who desired her, when he says,
1062 1076 <b>You have seen him, and it is he who speaks to you</b>. Here
1063 <p>1357 Because, as we read in 1077 Christ is giving him a teaching of faith. First, he mentions the
1064 Wisdom (6:16), "She," that is, Wisdom, "goes about seeking those worthy of 1078 gift he received, saying <b>you have seen him</b>, that is, you,
1065 her," Christ reveals himself to the man born blind, who desired her, when he 1079 who did not see before, have now seen him. He is saying in effect
1066 says, <b>You have seen him, and it is he who speaks to you</b>. Here Christ is 1080 that the man born blind received the ability to see from him:
1067 giving him a teaching of faith. First, he mentions the gift he received, saying 1081 "Blessed are the eyes which see what you see" (Lk 10:23); "Lord,
1068 <b>you have seen him</b>, that is, you, who did not see before, have now seen 1082 now let your servant depart in peace&hellip;for my eyes have seen
1069 him. He is saying in effect that the man born blind received the ability to see 1083 your salvation" [Lk 2:29]. Secondly, the teaching itself is given
1070 from him: "Blessed are the eyes which see what you see" (Lk 10:23); "Lord, now 1084 when he says, <b>It is he who speaks to you</b>: "In these last
1071 let your servant depart in peace…for my eyes have seen your salvation" [Lk 1085 days he has spoken to us by a Son" (Heb 1:2).</p>
1072 2:29]. Secondly, the teaching itself is given when he says, <b>It is he who 1086 <p>These words refute the error of Nestorius, who said that in
1073 speaks to you</b>: "In these last days he has spoken to us by a Son" (Heb 1:2). 1087 Christ the <i>suppositum</i> [or person] of the Son of God is
1074 1088 different from the <i>suppositum</i> of the Son of man. They refute
1075 <p>These 1089 it because the one who spoke these words was born from Mary and was
1076 words refute the error of Nestorius, who said that in Christ the <i>suppositum </i>[or 1090 the son of man, and the very same one is the Son of God, as our
1077 person] of the Son of God is different from the <i>suppositum</i> of the Son of 1091 Lord says. Therefore, there are two <i>supposita</i> [persons] in
1078 man. They refute it because the one who spoke these words was born from Mary 1092 Christ, although the natures [the divine and the human] are not the
1079 and was the son of man, and the very same one is the Son of God, as our Lord 1093 same.<a href="#_ftn32" name="_ftnref32" id="_ftnref32">[32]</a></p>
1080 says. Therefore, there are two <i>supposita</i> [persons] in Christ, although 1094 <p>1358 Then when the Evangelist says, <b>he said, Lord, I
1081 the natures [the divine and the human] are not the same.<a href="#_ftn32" 1095 believe</b>, we see the devout faith of the man born blind. And
1082 name="_ftnref32">[32]</a> 1096 first, he professes with his lips the faith in his heart, saying,
1083 1097 <b>Lord, I believe</b>: "Man believes with his heart and so is
1084 <p>1358 Then when the Evangelist 1098 justified, and he confesses with his lips and so is saved" (Rom
1085 says, <b>he said, Lord, I believe</b>, we see the devout faith of the man born 1099 10:10). Secondly, he shows it in his conduct, <b>and he worshipped
1086 blind. And first, he professes with his lips the faith in his heart, saying, <b>Lord, 1100 him</b>. This shows that he believes in the divine nature of
1087 I believe</b>: "Man believes with his heart and so is justified, and he 1101 Christ, because those whose consciences have been cleansed know
1088 confesses with his lips and so is saved" (Rom 10:10). Secondly, he shows it in 1102 Christ not only as the son of man, which was externally obvious,
1089 his conduct, <b>and he worshipped him</b>. This shows that he believes in the 1103 but as the Son of God, who had taken flesh: for adoration is due to
1090 divine nature of Christ, because those whose consciences have been cleansed 1104 God alone: "You will adore the Lord, your God" [Dt 6:13].</p>
1091 know Christ not only as the son of man, which was externally obvious, but as 1105 <p>1359 Next (v 39), the devotion of the man born blind is
1092 the Son of God, who had taken flesh: for adoration is due to God alone: "You 1106 commended: first, his devotion is commended; secondly, we see the
1093 will adore the Lord, your God" [Dt 6:13]. 1107 grumbling of the Jews (v 40); and then they are answered (v
1094 1108 41).</p>
1095 <p>1359 Next (v 39), the 1109 <p>1360 The man born blind is commended for his faith. We read,
1096 devotion of the man born blind is commended: first, his devotion is commended; 1110 <b>for judgment I came into this world</b>. But on the other hand,
1097 secondly, we see the grumbling of the Jews (v 40); and then they are answered 1111 we also read: "God sent the Son into the world, not to judge the
1098 (v 41). 1112 world" [Jn 3:17]. My answer is this: In the second statement [3:17]
1099 1113 he is speaking of the judgment of condemnation, about which we
1100 <p>1360 The man born blind is 1114 read: "Those who have done evil [will rise] to the resurrection of
1101 commended for his faith. We read,<b> for judgment I came into this world</b>. 1115 judgment" (Jn 5:29), that is, to a judgment of condemnation. And
1102 But on the other hand, we also read: "God sent the Son into the world, not to 1116 God did not send his Son for this purpose at his first coming; he
1103 judge the world" [Jn 3:17]. My answer is this: In the second statement [3:17] 1117 was sent to save us. But here in the present statement [9:39], he
1104 he is speaking of the judgment of condemnation, about which we read: "Those who 1118 is speaking of the judgment of distinction, about which we read:
1105 have done evil [will rise] to the resurrection of judgment" (Jn 5:29), that is, 1119 "Vindicate me, O Lord, and distinguish my cause" [Ps 43:1]. For
1106 to a judgment of condemnation. And God did not send his Son for this purpose at 1120 Jesus came to distinguish the good from the evil. The words which
1107 his first coming; he was sent to save us. But here in the present statement 1121 follow show this: <b>that those who do not see may see, and that
1108 [9:39], he is speaking of the judgment of distinction, about which we read: 1122 those who see may become blind.</b></p>
1109 "Vindicate me, O Lord, and distinguish my cause" [Ps 43:1]. For Jesus came to 1123 <p>According to Augustine, those who think they see do not see, and
1110 distinguish the good from the evil. The words which follow show this: <b>that 1124 those who do not think they see, see. Now, we are said to be blind,
1111 those who do not see may see, and that those who see may become blind.</b> 1125 spiritually, insofar as we sin: "Their wickedness blinded them"
1112 1126 (Wis 2:21).<a href="#_ftn33" name="_ftnref33" title="" id=
1113 <p>According 1127 "_ftnref33">[33]</a> Thus, the one who does not recognize his own
1114 to Augustine, those who think they see do not see, and those who do not think 1128 sins regards himself as seeing; while one who recognizes himself as
1115 they see, see. Now, we are said to be blind, spiritually, insofar as we sin: 1129 a sinner regards himself as not seeing. The first is characteristic
1116 "Their wickedness blinded them" (Wis 2:21).<a href="#_ftn33" name="_ftnref33" 1130 of the proud; the second, of the humble. So the meaning is this: I
1117 title="">[33]</a> 1131 have come to distinguish the humble from the proud, so that the
1118 Thus, the one who does not recognize his own sins regards himself as seeing; 1132 humble, <b>who do not see</b>, that is, who regard themselves as
1119 while one who recognizes himself as a sinner regards himself as not seeing. The 1133 sinners, <b>may see</b>, having been illuminated by faith, <b>and
1120 first is characteristic of the proud; the second, of the humble. So the meaning 1134 that those who see</b>, that is, the proud, <b>may become
1121 is this: I have come to distinguish the humble from the proud, so that the 1135 blind</b>, that is, may remain in the darkness.</p>
1122 humble, <b>who do not see</b>, that is, who regard themselves as sinners, <b>may 1136 <p>1361 Chrysostom understands this passage in terms of the
1123 see</b>, having been illuminated by faith, <b>and that those who see</b>, that 1137 judgment of condemnation, so that the statement, <b>for judgment I
1124 is, the proud, <b>may become blind</b>, that is, may remain in the darkness. 1138 came into this world</b> is not understood in a causal sense, but
1125 1139 it indicates the sequence of events.<a href="#_ftn34" name=
1126 <p>1361 Chrysostom understands 1140 "_ftnref34" id="_ftnref34">[34]</a> It is like saying: After my
1127 this passage in terms of the judgment of condemnation, so that the statement, <b>for 1141 coming into the world, there follows for some the judgment of
1128 judgment I came into this world</b> is not understood in a causal sense, but it 1142 condemnation increases in them. In Luke (2:23) we find something
1129 indicates the sequence of events.<a href="#_ftn34" name="_ftnref34">[34]</a> 1143 similar: "This child is set for the falling and rising of many in
1130 It is like saying: After my coming into the world, there follows for some the 1144 Israel," not because Christ is the cause of their fall, but because
1131 judgment of condemnation increases in them. In Luke (2:23) we find something 1145 this follows his coming. He adds, <b>that those who do not see</b>,
1132 similar: "This child is set for the falling and rising of many in Israel," not because Christ is the cause of their fall, but because this follows his 1146 that is, the Gentiles, who lacked the light of divine knowledge,
1133 coming. He adds, <b>that those who do not see</b>, that is, the Gentiles, who 1147 <b>may see</b>, i.e., be admitted to the knowledge of God: "The
1134 lacked the light of divine knowledge, <b>may see</b>, i.e., be admitted to the 1148 people who walked in darkness have seen a great light" (Is 9:2);
1135 knowledge of God: "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light" 1149 <b>and that those who see</b>, the Jews, who did have a knowledge
1136 (Is 9:2); <b>and that those who see</b>, the Jews, who did have a knowledge of 1150 of God - "In Judah God is known" (Ps 76:1) - <b>may become
1137 God - "In Judah God is known" (Ps 76:1) - <b>may become blind</b>, fall away 1151 blind</b>, fall away from the knowledge of God. The Apostle
1138 from the knowledge of God. The Apostle explicitly mentions this: "The Gentiles 1152 explicitly mentions this: "The Gentiles who did not pursue
1139 who did not pursue righteousness have attained it" (Rom 9:30). 1153 righteousness have attained it" (Rom 9:30).</p>
1140 1154 <p>1362 Now we see the grumbling of the Jews. They had understood
1141 <p>1362 Now we see the grumbling 1155 our Lord's words in a bodily sense because they had seen the man
1142 of the Jews. They had understood our Lord's words in a bodily sense because 1156 born blind physically restored to sight, and had thought that our
1143 they had seen the man born blind physically restored to sight, and had thought 1157 Lord was concerned only with the light in his eyes rather than in
1144 that our Lord was concerned only with the light in his eyes rather than in his 1158 his mind. And so they believed that he was warning and threatening
1145 mind. And so they believed that he was warning and threatening them with 1159 them with physical blindness when he said <b>may become blind</b>.
1146 physical blindness when he said <b>may become blind</b>. Therefore, the 1160 Therefore, the Evangelist says, <b>some of the Pharisees near him
1147 Evangelist says, <b>some of the Pharisees near him heard this</b>, the above 1161 heard this</b>, the above words. He says who were <b>near him</b>,
1148 words. He says who were <b>near him</b>, to show their vacillation: for 1162 to show their vacillation: for sometimes they were with him because
1149 sometimes they were with him because of some miracles which they saw, and then 1163 of some miracles which they saw, and then would leave when the
1150 would leave when the truth was made known to them: "They believe for a while, 1164 truth was made known to them: "They believe for a while, and in
1151 and in time of tribulation fall away" (Lk 8:13). <b>And they said to him, Are 1165 time of tribulation fall away" (Lk 8:13). <b>And they said to him,
1152 we also blind</b>, i.e., physically? Yet they were spiritually blind: "Let them 1166 Are we also blind</b>, i.e., physically? Yet they were spiritually
1153 alone; they are blind guides" (Mt 15:14). 1167 blind: "Let them alone; they are blind guides" (Mt 15:14).</p>
1154 1168 <p>1363 Next, we see the Jews silenced. According to Augustine,
1155 <p>1363 Next, we see the Jews 1169 this shows the meaning of the previous passage, that is, that our
1156 silenced. According to Augustine, this shows the meaning of the previous 1170 Lord was referring to spiritual blindness.<a href="#_ftn35" name=
1157 passage, that is, that our Lord was referring to spiritual blindness.<a 1171 "_ftnref35" id="_ftnref35">[35]</a> He says, <b>If you were blind,
1158 href="#_ftn35" name="_ftnref35">[35]</a> 1172 you would have no guilt</b>, because you would be running to the
1159 He says, <b>If you were blind, you would have no guilt</b>, because you would 1173 remedy. For sin is taken away by grace, which is given only to the
1160 be running to the remedy. For sin is taken away by grace, which is given only 1174 humble: "God gives grace to the humble" (Jas 4:6). <b>But now that
1161 to the humble: "God gives grace to the humble" (Jas 4:6). <b>But now that you 1175 you say, We see</b>, i.e., proudly thinking that you do see, you do
1162 say, We see</b>, i.e., proudly thinking that you do see, you do not recognize 1176 not recognize that you are sinners, <b>your guilt remains</b>,
1163 that you are sinners, <b>your guilt remains</b>, i.e., is not taken away: "God 1177 i.e., is not taken away: "God opposes the proud" (Jas 4:6).</p>
1164 opposes the proud" (Jas 4:6). 1178 <p>Chrysostom understands this passage as referring to physical
1165 1179 blindness.<a href="#_ftn36" name="_ftnref36" title="" id=
1166 <p>Chrysostom understands this 1180 "_ftnref36">[36]</a> The meaning is then: <b>If you were blind</b>,
1167 passage as referring to physical blindness.<a href="#_ftn36" name="_ftnref36" 1181 physically, you would have no guilt, because since blindness is a
1168 title="">[36]</a> 1182 physical defect, it does not have the nature of sin. <b>But now
1169 The meaning is then: <b>If you were blind</b>,<b> </b>physically, you would 1183 that you say, We see</b>, your sin is clear, because while seeing
1170 have no guilt, because since blindness is a physical defect, it does not have 1184 the miracles that I do, you do not believe me: "Blind the heart of
1171 the nature of sin. <b>But now that you say, We see</b>, your sin is clear, 1185 this people" [Is 6:10].</p>
1172 because while seeing the miracles that I do, you do not believe me: "Blind the 1186 <p>Here is another explanation. <b>If you were blind</b>, i.e.,
1173 heart of this people" [Is 6:10]. 1187 ignorant of the judgments of God and of the sacraments of the law;
1174 1188 <b>you would have no guilt</b>, i.e., so much. As if to say: If you
1175 <p>Here 1189 were sinning out of ignorance, your sin would not be so serious.
1176 is another explanation. <b>If you were blind</b>,<b> </b>i.e.,<b> </b>ignorant 1190 <b>But now that you say, We see</b>, i.e., arrogate to yourselves
1177 of the judgments of God and of the sacraments of the law; <b>you would have no 1191 an understanding of the law and a knowledge of God, and still sin,
1178 guilt</b>, i.e., so much. As if to say: If you were sinning out of ignorance, 1192 then <b>your guilt remains</b>, i.e., becomes greater: "That
1179 your sin would not be so serious. <b>But now that you say, We see</b>, i.e., 1193 servant who knew is master's will, but did not make ready or act
1180 arrogate to yourselves an understanding of the law and a knowledge of God, and 1194 according to his will, shall receive a severe beating" (Lk
1181 still sin, then <b>your guilt remains</b>, i.e., becomes greater: "That servant 1195 12:47).<br />
1182 who knew is master's will, but did not make ready or act according to his will, 1196 <br />
1183 shall receive a severe beating" (Lk 12:47). 1197 <br /></p>
1184 <BR><BR><BR> 1198 <hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" />
1185 <hr align=left size=1 width="33%"> 1199 <div id="ftn1">
1186 1200 <p><a href="#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" id="_ftn1">[1]</a> <span>St.
1187 <div id=ftn1> 1201 Thomas refers to Jn 9:3 in the <i>Summa Theologiae</i>: I-II, q.
1188 1202 87, a. 7, obj. 1; III, q. 40, a. 4, ad 1; Jn 9:4: <i>ST</i> III, q.
1189 <p><a href="#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1">[1]</a> 1203 35, a. 8, obj. 3; q. 83, a. 2, ad 4; Jn 5: <i>ST</i> III, q. 46, a.
1190 <span>St. Thomas refers to Jn 9:3 in the <i>Summa Theologiae</i>: 1204 9, obj. 4; q. 83, a. 2, ad 4; Jn 9:6: <i>ST</i> III, q. 44, a. 3,
1191 I-II, q. 87, a. 7, obj. 1; III, q. 40, a. 4, ad 1; Jn 9:4: <i>ST</i> III, q. 1205 ad 2.</span></p>
1192 35, a. 8, obj. 3; q. 83, a. 2, ad 4; Jn 5: <i>ST</i> III, q. 46, a. 9, obj. 4; 1206 </div>
1193 q. 83, a. 2, ad 4; Jn 9:6: <i>ST</i> III, q. 44, a. 3, ad 2. 1207 <div id="ftn2">
1194 1208 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2" id="_ftn2">[2]</a>
1195 </div> 1209 <i>Tract. in Io</i>., 44, ch. 1, col. 1713; cf. <i>Catena
1196 1210 Aurea,</i> 9:1-7.</span></p>
1197 <div id=ftn2> 1211 </div>
1198 1212 <div id="ftn3">
1199 <p><a href="#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2"> 1213 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref3" name="_ftn3" id="_ftn3">[3]</a> <i>In
1200 [2]</a> <i>Tract. 1214 Ioannem hom</i>., 56, ch. 1; PG 59, col. 305; cf. <i>Catena
1201 in Io</i>., 44, ch. 1, col. 1713; cf. <i>Catena Aurea, </i>9:1-7. 1215 Aurea,</i> 8:1-7.</span></p>
1202 1216 </div>
1203 </div> 1217 <div id="ftn4">
1204 1218 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref4" name="_ftn4" id="_ftn4">[4]</a> Ibid;
1205 <div id=ftn3> 1219 cf. <i>Catena Aurea,</i> 8:1-7.</span></p>
1206 1220 </div>
1207 <p><a href="#_ftnref3" name="_ftn3">[3]</a> <i>In 1221 <div id="ftn5">
1208 Ioannem hom</i>., 56, ch. 1; PG 59, col. 305; cf. 1222 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref5" name="_ftn5" id="_ftn5">[5]</a>
1209 <i>Catena Aurea, </i>8:1-7. 1223 Augustine, <i>Epistola XLIV</i>, ch. V no. 12, PL 33, col.
1210 1224 179.</span></p>
1211 </div> 1225 </div>
1212 1226 <div id="ftn6">
1213 <div id=ftn4> 1227 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref6" name="_ftn6" id="_ftn6">[6]</a>
1214 1228 summa-punishment as a corrective.</span></p>
1215 <p><a href="#_ftnref4" name="_ftn4"> 1229 </div>
1216 [4]</a> Ibid; 1230 <div id="ftn7">
1217 cf. <i>Catena Aurea, </i>8:1-7. 1231 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref7" name="_ftn7" id="_ftn7">[7]</a> cf.
1218 1232 Augustine, <i>Epistola CLV</i>, ch. I, no. 3; PL 33, col.
1219 </div> 1233 668</span></p>
1220 1234 </div>
1221 <div id=ftn5> 1235 <div id="ftn8">
1222 1236 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref8" name="_ftn8" id="_ftn8">[8]</a>
1223 <p><a href="#_ftnref5" name="_ftn5">[5]</a> 1237 Summa-evil of fault and evil of punishment</span></p>
1224 Augustine, <i>Epistola XLIV</i>, ch. V no. 12, PL 33, 1238 </div>
1225 col. 179. 1239 <div id="ftn9">
1226 1240 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref9" name="_ftn9" id="_ftn9">[9]</a>
1227 </div> 1241 <i>Moralia</i>, Praefatio, ch. 5 no. 12; PL 75, col. 523A, B; cf.
1228 1242 <i>Catena Aurea,</i> 9:1-7.</span></p>
1229 <div id=ftn6> 1243 </div>
1230 1244 <div id="ftn10">
1231 <p><a href="#_ftnref6" name="_ftn6"> 1245 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref10" name="_ftn10" id="_ftn10">[10]</a>
1232 [6]</a> 1246 <i>In Ioannem hom</i>., 57, ch. 1; PG 59, col. 311; cf. <i>Catena
1233 summa-punishment as a corrective. 1247 Aurea,</i> 9:1-7.</span></p>
1234 1248 </div>
1235 </div> 1249 <div id="ftn11">
1236 1250 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref11" name="_ftn11" id="_ftn11">[11]</a>
1237 <div id=ftn7> 1251 <i>Tract. in Io</i>., 44, ch. 2, col. 1714; cf. <i>Catena
1238 1252 Aurea,</i> 9:1-7.</span></p>
1239 <p><a href="#_ftnref7" name="_ftn7"> 1253 </div>
1240 [7]</a> cf. 1254 <div id="ftn12">
1241 Augustine, <i>Epistola CLV</i>, ch. I, no. 3; PL 33, col. 668 1255 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref12" name="_ftn12" id="_ftn12">[12]</a>
1242 1256 Dionysius.</span></p>
1243 </div> 1257 </div>
1244 1258 <div id="ftn13">
1245 <div id=ftn8> 1259 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref13" name="_ftn13" id="_ftn13">[13]</a>
1246 1260 <i>Moralia</i>, Lib. 8, ch. 30, no. 49; PL 75. col. 832 C; cf.
1247 <p><a href="#_ftnref8" name="_ftn8"> 1261 <i>Catena Aurea,</i> 9:1-7.</span></p>
1248 [8]</a> 1262 </div>
1249 Summa-evil of fault and evil of punishment 1263 <div id="ftn14">
1250 1264 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref14" name="_ftn14" id="_ftn14">[14]</a>
1251 </div> 1265 <span>St. Thomas refers to Jn 9:16 in the <i>Summa Theologiae</i>:
1252 1266 I-II, q. 107, a. 2, obj. 3; III, q. 40, a. 4, ad
1253 <div id=ftn9> 1267 1.</span></span></p>
1254 1268 </div>
1255 <p><a href="#_ftnref9" name="_ftn9"> 1269 <div id="ftn15">
1256 [9]</a> <i>Moralia</i>, Praefatio, ch. 5 no. 12; PL 75, col. 523A, B; cf. <i>Catena Aurea, </i>9:1-7. 1270 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref15" name="_ftn15" id=
1257 1271 "_ftn15">[15]</a><i>Tract. in Io</i>., 44, ch. 8, col. 1716; cf.
1258 </div> 1272 <i>Catena Aurea,</i> 9:8-17.</span></p>
1259 1273 </div>
1260 <div id=ftn10> 1274 <div id="ftn16">
1261 1275 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref16" name="_ftn16" id="_ftn16">[16]</a>
1262 <p><a href="#_ftnref10" name="_ftn10"> 1276 Ibid., 8; cf. <i>Catena Aurea,</i> 9:8-17.</span></p>
1263 [10]</a> <i>In 1277 </div>
1264 Ioannem hom</i>., 57, ch. 1; PG 59, col. 311; cf. 1278 <div id="ftn17">
1265 <i>Catena Aurea, </i>9:1-7. 1279 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref17" name="_ftn17" id="_ftn17">[17]</a>
1266 1280 See <i>Tract in Io</i>, 44, ch. 8, col. 1716-17.</span></p>
1267 </div> 1281 </div>
1268 1282 <div id="ftn18">
1269 <div id=ftn11> 1283 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref18" name="_ftn18" id=
1270 1284 "_ftn18">[18]</a><i>In Ioannem hom</i>., 58, ch. 1; PG 59, col. 58;
1271 <p><a href="#_ftnref11" name="_ftn11"> 1285 cf. <i>Catena Aurea,</i> 9:8-17.</span></p>
1272 [11]</a> <i>Tract. 1286 </div>
1273 in Io</i>., 44, ch. 2, col. 1714; cf. <i>Catena 1287 <div id="ftn19">
1274 Aurea, </i>9:1-7. 1288 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref19" name="_ftn19" id="_ftn19">[19]</a>
1275 1289 <i>Tract. in Io</i>., 44, ch. 9, col. 1717; cf. <i>Catena
1276 </div> 1290 Aurea,</i> 9:8-17.</span></p>
1277 1291 </div>
1278 <div id=ftn12> 1292 <div id="ftn20">
1279 1293 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref20" name="_ftn20" id="_ftn20">[20]</a>
1280 <p><a href="#_ftnref12" name="_ftn12"> 1294 <i>Tract. in Io</i>., 44, 10, col. 1717; cf. <i>Catena Aurea,</i>
1281 [12]</a> 1295 9:18-23.</span></p>
1282 Dionysius. 1296 </div>
1283 1297 <div id="ftn21">
1284 </div> 1298 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref21" name="_ftn21" id="_ftn21">[21]</a>
1285 1299 <span>St. Thomas refers to Jn 9:31 in the <i>Summa Theologiae</i>:
1286 <div id=ftn13> 1300 II-II, q. 83, a. 16, obj. 1; q. 178, a. 2, obj. 1; III, q. 64, a.
1287 1301 1, obj. 2; Jn 9:32: <i>ST</i> III, q. 43, a. 4. </span></span></p>
1288 <p><a href="#_ftnref13" name="_ftn13"> 1302 </div>
1289 [13]</a> <i>Moralia</i>, 1303 <div id="ftn22">
1290 Lib. 8, ch. 30, no. 49; PL 75. col. 832 C; cf. 1304 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref22" name="_ftn22" id="_ftn22">[22]</a>
1291 <i>Catena Aurea, </i>9:1-7. 1305 <i>Tract. in Io</i>., 44, ch. 11, col. 1718; cf. <i>Catena
1292 1306 Aurea,</i> 9:24-34.</span></p>
1293 </div> 1307 </div>
1294 1308 <div id="ftn23">
1295 <div id=ftn14> 1309 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref23" name="_ftn23" id="_ftn23">[23]</a>
1296 1310 Augustine-this is not in <i>Tract in Io</i>. (so far as I could
1297 <p><a href="#_ftnref14" name="_ftn14">[14]</a> 1311 tell)</span></p>
1298 <span>St. Thomas refers to Jn 9:16 in the <i>Summa 1312 </div>
1299 Theologiae</i>: I-II, q. 107, a. 2, obj. 3; III, q. 40, a. 4, ad 1. 1313 <div id="ftn24">
1300 1314 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref24" name="_ftn24" id="_ftn24">[24]</a>
1301 </div> 1315 <i>In Ioannem hom</i>., 58, ch. 2; PG 59, col. 317; cf. <i>Catena
1302 1316 Aurea,</i> 9:24-34.</span></p>
1303 <div id=ftn15> 1317 </div>
1304 1318 <div id="ftn25">
1305 <p><a href="#_ftnref15" name="_ftn15"> 1319 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref25" name="_ftn25" id="_ftn25">[25]</a>
1306 [15]</a><i> 1320 <i>Tract. in Io</i>, 44, ch. 11, col. 1718.</span></p>
1307 Tract. in Io</i>., 44, ch. 8, col. 1716; cf. <i>Catena Aurea, </i>9:8-17. 1321 </div>
1308 1322 <div id="ftn26">
1309 </div> 1323 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref26" name="_ftn26" id="_ftn26">[26]</a>
1310 1324 <i>In Ioannem hom</i>., 58, ch. 2; PG 59, col. 318; cf. <i>Catena
1311 <div id=ftn16> 1325 Aurea</i>, <span style='color:#339966'>9:24-34.</span></span></p>
1312 1326 </div>
1313 <p><a href="#_ftnref16" name="_ftn16"> 1327 <div id="ftn27">
1314 [16]</a> Ibid., 1328 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref27" name="_ftn27" id="_ftn27">[27]</a>
1315 8; cf. <i>Catena Aurea, </i>9:8-17. 1329 <i>Tract. in Io</i>., 44, ch. 13, col. 1718; cf. <i>Catena
1316 1330 Aurea,</i> 9:24-34.</span></p>
1317 </div> 1331 </div>
1318 1332 <div id="ftn28">
1319 <div id=ftn17> 1333 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref28" name="_ftn28" id="_ftn28">[28]</a>
1320 1334 Summa-sc 138-139 way in which God hears the prayers of sinners;
1321 <p><a href="#_ftnref17" name="_ftn17"> 1335 miracles can testify to a doctrine or to a person.</span></p>
1322 [17]</a> See <i>Tract 1336 </div>
1323 in Io</i>, 44, ch. 8, col. 1716-17. 1337 <div id="ftn29">
1324 1338 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref29" name="_ftn29" id="_ftn29">[29]</a>
1325 </div> 1339 <i>In Ioannem hom</i>., 58, ch. 3; PG 59, col., 319; cf. <i>Catena
1326 1340 Aurea,</i> 9:24-34.</span></p>
1327 <div id=ftn18> 1341 </div>
1328 1342 <div id="ftn30">
1329 <p><a href="#_ftnref18" name="_ftn18"> 1343 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref30" name="_ftn30" id="_ftn30">[30]</a>
1330 [18]</a><i>In 1344 <span>St. Thomas <span>refers to Jn 9:39 in the <i>Summa
1331 Ioannem hom</i>., 58, ch. 1; PG 59, col. 58; 1345 Theologiae</i>: III, q. 51, a. 2, obj. 2; Jn 9:41: <i>ST</i> II-II,
1332 cf. <i>Catena Aurea, </i>9:8-17. 1346 q. 15, a. 1, obj. 1.</span></span></span></p>
1333 1347 </div>
1334 </div> 1348 <div id="ftn31">
1335 1349 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref31" name="_ftn31" id="_ftn31">[31]</a>
1336 <div id=ftn19> 1350 <i>De Trinitate</i>, 6 ch. 48; PL 10, col. 196B; cf. <i>Catena
1337 1351 Aurea,</i> 9:35-41.</span></p>
1338 <p><a href="#_ftnref19" name="_ftn19"> 1352 </div>
1339 [19]</a> <i>Tract. 1353 <div id="ftn32">
1340 in Io</i>., 44, ch. 9, col. 1717; cf. <i>Catena 1354 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref32" name="_ftn32" id="_ftn32">[32]</a>
1341 Aurea, </i>9:8-17. 1355 Ought this to be concluding that there are two persons in
1342 1356 Christ?</span></p>
1343 </div> 1357 </div>
1344 1358 <div id="ftn33">
1345 <div id=ftn20> 1359 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref33" name="_ftn33" id="_ftn33">[33]</a>
1346 1360 <i>Tract. in Io</i>., 44, 16, col. 1719; cf. <i>Catena Aurea,</i>
1347 <p><a href="#_ftnref20" name="_ftn20"> 1361 9:35-41.</span></p>
1348 [20]</a> <i>Tract. 1362 </div>
1349 in Io</i>., 44, 10, col. 1717; cf. <i>Catena 1363 <div id="ftn34">
1350 Aurea, </i>9:18-23. 1364 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref34" name="_ftn34" id="_ftn34">[34]</a>
1351 1365 <i>In Ioannem hom</i>., 59, ch. 1; PG 59, col. 323; cf.
1352 </div> 1366 <i>Catena</i> <i><span style=
1353 1367 'color:#339966'>Aurea</span><span style='color:#339966'>,
1354 <div id=ftn21> 1368 9:35-41.</span></i></span></p>
1355 1369 </div>
1356 <p><a href="#_ftnref21" name="_ftn21">[21]</a> 1370 <div id="ftn35">
1357 <span>St. Thomas refers to Jn 9:31 in the <i>Summa 1371 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref35" name="_ftn35" id="_ftn35">[35]</a>
1358 Theologiae</i>: II-II, q. 83, a. 16, obj. 1; q. 178, a. 2, obj. 1; III, q. 64, 1372 <i>Tract. in Io</i>., 44, ch. 17, col. 1719; cf. <i>Catena
1359 a. 1, obj. 2; Jn 9:32: <i>ST </i>III, q. 43, a. 4.<i> </i> 1373 Aurea,</i> 9:35-41.</span></p>
1360 1374 </div>
1361 </div> 1375 <div id="ftn36">
1362 1376 <p><span><a href="#_ftnref36" name="_ftn36" id="_ftn36">[36]</a>
1363 <div id=ftn22> 1377 <i>In Ioannem hom</i>., 59, ch. 1; PG 59, col. 323; cf.
1364 1378 <i>Catena</i> <i><span style=
1365 <p><a href="#_ftnref22" name="_ftn22">[22]</a> 1379 'color:#339966'>Aurea</span><span style='color:#339966'>,
1366 <i>Tract. in Io</i>., 1380 9:35-41.</span></i></span></p>
1367 44, ch. 11, col. 1718; cf. <i>Catena Aurea, </i>9:24-34. 1381 </div>
1368 1382 </blockquote>
1369 </div> 1383 </body>
1370 1384 </html>
1371 <div id=ftn23>
1372
1373 <p><a href="#_ftnref23" name="_ftn23">
1374 [23]</a> Augustine-this is not in <i>Tract in Io</i>. (so far as I
1375 could tell)
1376
1377 </div>
1378
1379 <div id=ftn24>
1380
1381 <p><a href="#_ftnref24" name="_ftn24">
1382 [24]</a> <i>In
1383 Ioannem hom</i>., 58, ch. 2; PG 59, col. 317; cf.
1384 <i>Catena Aurea,</i> 9:24-34.
1385
1386 </div>
1387
1388 <div id=ftn25>
1389
1390 <p><a href="#_ftnref25" name="_ftn25">
1391 [25]</a> <i>Tract.
1392 in Io</i>, 44, ch. 11, col. 1718.
1393
1394 </div>
1395
1396 <div id=ftn26>
1397
1398 <p><a href="#_ftnref26" name="_ftn26">
1399 [26]</a> <i>In
1400 Ioannem hom</i>., 58, ch. 2; PG 59, col. 318; cf.
1401 <i>Catena Aurea</i>, <span style='color:#339966'>9:24-34.
1402
1403 </div>
1404
1405 <div id=ftn27>
1406
1407 <p><a href="#_ftnref27" name="_ftn27">
1408 [27]</a> <i>Tract.
1409 in Io</i>., 44, ch. 13, col. 1718; cf. <i>Catena
1410 Aurea, </i>9:24-34.
1411
1412 </div>
1413
1414 <div id=ftn28>
1415
1416 <p><a href="#_ftnref28" name="_ftn28">
1417 [28]</a>
1418 Summa-sc 138-139 way in which God hears the prayers of sinners; miracles can
1419 testify to a doctrine or to a person.
1420
1421 </div>
1422
1423 <div id=ftn29>
1424
1425 <p><a href="#_ftnref29" name="_ftn29">[29]</a>
1426 <i>In Ioannem hom</i>.,
1427 58, ch. 3; PG 59, col., 319; cf. <i>Catena
1428 Aurea,</i> 9:24-34.
1429
1430 </div>
1431
1432 <div id=ftn30>
1433
1434 <p><a href="#_ftnref30" name="_ftn30">[30]</a>
1435 <span>St. Thomas<span> refers to
1436 Jn 9:39 in the <i>Summa Theologiae</i>: III, q. 51, a. 2, obj. 2; Jn 9:41: <i>ST</i>
1437 II-II, q. 15, a. 1, obj. 1.
1438
1439 </div>
1440
1441 <div id=ftn31>
1442
1443 <p><a href="#_ftnref31" name="_ftn31">[31]</a> <i>De Trinitate</i>, 6 ch. 48; PL 10, col. 196B; cf. <i>Catena Aurea, </i>9:35-41.
1444
1445 </div>
1446
1447 <div id=ftn32>
1448
1449 <p><a href="#_ftnref32" name="_ftn32">
1450 [32]</a> Ought
1451 this to be concluding that there are two persons in Christ?
1452
1453 </div>
1454
1455 <div id=ftn33>
1456
1457 <p><a href="#_ftnref33" name="_ftn33">
1458 [33]</a> <i>Tract.
1459 in Io</i>., 44, 16, col. 1719; cf. <i>Catena
1460 Aurea, </i>9:35-41.
1461
1462 </div>
1463
1464 <div id=ftn34>
1465
1466 <p><a href="#_ftnref34" name="_ftn34">
1467 [34]</a> <i>In
1468 Ioannem hom</i>., 59, ch. 1; PG 59, col. 323; cf.
1469 <i>Catena </i><i><span style='color:#339966'>Aurea</i><span style='color:#339966'>, 9:35-41.
1470
1471 </div>
1472
1473 <div id=ftn35>
1474
1475 <p><a href="#_ftnref35" name="_ftn35">
1476 [35]</a> <i>Tract.
1477 in Io</i>., 44, ch. 17, col. 1719; cf. <i>Catena
1478 Aurea, </i>9:35-41.
1479
1480 </div>
1481
1482 <div id=ftn36>
1483
1484 <p><a href="#_ftnref36" name="_ftn36">
1485 [36]</a><i> In
1486 Ioannem hom</i>., 59, ch. 1; PG 59, col. 323;
1487 cf. <i>Catena </i><i><span style='color:#339966'>Aurea</i><span style='color:#339966'>, 9:35-41.
1488
1489 </body></html>