Episode 263: The City of God - Book XIV: Chapters 1-7
In Book XIV, Chapters 1-7 of The City of God, St. Augustine examines the origin and nature of human emotions and the role of love in shaping the two cities: the City of God and the Earthly City. He contrasts the ordered love of God, which characterizes the heavenly city, with the disordered love of self, which defines the earthly one. Augustine traces the corruption of human nature to the fall of Adam and Eve, introducing the concept of original sin, which distorted humanity's will and desires. He argues that the emotions and passions are not inherently evil but become disordered when they are misaligned with God’s will. Augustine emphasizes that only through divine grace can humans overcome their sinful nature and realign their love toward God, enabling them to participate in the City of God. This section underscores the moral and spiritual consequences of humanity's choices and the centrality of love in defining human purpose.
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