Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and problems for Religion

Key Figures in Medieval Castilian Literature

Alfonso X: Consolidator of Castilian Prose

Alfonso X, known as "the Wise," played a pivotal role in consolidating Castilian prose. His extensive works are generally classified into several categories:

• Historical Works: Including the General History of Spain and the Estoria de España.
• Legal Works: Such as the Setenario Legal and the Siete Partidas (Seven Games).
• Scientific Works: Notably the Tablas Alfonsíes (Alfonsine Tables) and the Libro del saber de astronomía (Book of Knowledge of Astronomy).
• Recreational Works: Including the Libro de ajedrez, dados y tablas (Book of Chess, Dice, and Tables).

Don Juan Manuel: Master of the Exemplum

Don Juan Manuel, nephew of Alfonso X and a distinguished writer, is... Continue reading "Key Figures & Literary Forms of Medieval Spanish Literature" »

Creation of the World and Existence of Evil

St. Augustine, basing his ideas on Plato and Plotinus, developed the doctrine of creationism. This doctrine posits that God created reality based on the eternal ideas of all things. Creation occurred in a manner beyond full human comprehension, but required two main conditions:

1. Creation had to be timeless, as God exists outside of time, which began with creation.
2. Creation had to be instantaneous, because if it were a process, the Creator could change, which is impossible as the divine essence is immutable.

St. Augustine asserted that God created reality in a single act. Some elements were endowed with the power to exist and subsequently developed in successive moments (Seminal Reasons).

Initially, Augustine... Continue reading "St. Augustine's Doctrine on Creation and Evil" »

The God Who Cares

1.1. God is found through Jesus: He is a transcendent being. Being the son of God is better known to man.

1.2. Jesus was a loving father: He takes care of his creatures through his deeds and words. God always forgives.

Near to God

The Jews found God unique and special, like a mother.

Jesus reveals a God who is close and friendly.

The God of Providence

God is immanent, reflected in his creation, yet transcends us, beyond our definitions.

• Some think that man has a capricious fate that depends on chance.
• Atheists: They deny God's existence, believing God is a human invention.
• Agnostics: Prefer not to ask questions about God.

Providence is the presence of God as Creator in all creation.

Reflections of God

• God is reflected in nature.
• God is