Wisdom Proceeding: A Thomistic Account of the Nature of Theology

Christian theology, classically understood, aims at understanding God. However, academic theology—often centred on hermeneutics, historical texts, and the systematic articulation of dogmas—raises significant concerns. At best, it becomes an abstract study of what we say about God, distanced from faith and piety. At worst, it devolves into a speculative enterprise that risks fostering scepticism. Thomas Aquinas held that theology is a true scientific discipline, grounded in evidence, logical reasoning, rigorous argumentation, and the close examination of historical sources. He demonstrated that theology provides knowledge comparable to disciplines such as mathematics, history, or philosophy. The author argues that Aquinas’ account of theology reveals how understanding God is deeply connected to personal holiness, offering a compelling vision for today – one in which theology, when done well, both arises from and nourishes a living faith in the God it seeks to study.

This book is an invaluable resource for theologians, scholars, and students of theology, philosophy, and religious studies, particularly those interested in Thomistic thought and in pursuing a rigorous yet faith-integrated approach to theological study and practice.