St. Thomas (Noun)
Meaning 1
(Roman Catholic Church) Italian theologian and Doctor of the Church who is remembered for his attempt to reconcile faith and reason in a comprehensive theology; presented philosophical proofs of the existence of God (1225-1274).
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- St. Thomas developed a philosophical system known as Thomism, which was later used by the Roman Catholic Church to combat Lutheranism.
- St. Thomas is believed to have been influenced heavily by the works of Aristotle in his theological writings.
- St. Thomas Aquinas presented five philosophical proofs of the existence of God in the Summa Theologica, also known as the Five Ways.
- In 1567 St. Thomas was given the designation of 'Doctor Angelicus' due to his eloquent writings and sermons.
- The philosophical views of St. Thomas are still studied today in universities and institutions with theological programs.
Synonyms
Meaning 2
The Apostle who would not believe the resurrection of Jesus until he saw Jesus with his own eyes.
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- St. Thomas is often referred to as "Doubting Thomas" due to his initial disbelief in Jesus' resurrection.
- Apostle Thomas refused to accept the account of Jesus' resurrection until he personally witnessed the risen Lord.
- St. Thomas' declaration of "My Lord and my God" after witnessing Jesus' resurrected form has become a testament of faith for many Christians.
- According to Christian scripture, St. Thomas required physical proof before he could believe in Jesus' resurrection from the dead.
- The story of St. Thomas serves as a reminder that even those closest to Jesus struggled with faith in the face of extraordinary circumstances.