“To know if someone is good, we do not ask what they believe or hope for, but rather what they love.“ At first glance, this quote might sound like another cliché from self-help culture, yet its depth runs much deeper. This thought, penned by Saint Augustine over 1,500 years ago, places love at the center of human existence and moral judgment.
What Did Saint Augustine Mean?
To explore this statement, we need to examine what Augustine considered vital in life. Traditional Christian virtues include faith, hope, and love. While Augustine acknowledges the significance of faith and hope, he asserts that love is paramount. In fact, one of his other famous sayings, “Love and do what you will,” conveys a similar sentiment that love should guide our actions.
What Augustine suggests is a revolution in moral philosophy. Rather than merely adhering to external beliefs or hopes, one’s character is primarily defined by the object of their love. If we direct our love toward good, we become good. As he famously noted, “Lord, grant me chastity and continence, but not now,” suggesting that desire and love can lead to deeper reflection and transformation.
The Relevance of Augustine Today
In contemporary society, values and ethics often come into sharp debate. Recently, Augustine’s ideas gained traction in political discourse. For instance, a statement by U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance highlighted a so-called “old-school Christian concept” prioritizing love for one’s family, neighbors, and country over others. This raises the question: why has Augustine’s philosophy resurfaced now?
The political implications of “ordo amoris,” meaning “the order of love,” could foster a specific agenda. Yet, Augustine’s original text is markedly nuanced and should not be reduced to a political tool. Just because someone loves certain aspects first does not imply that they are ethically correct in their prioritization.
Understanding Love: A Complex Reality
Augustine’s concept of love isn’t a strict hierarchy. He argued that love possesses transformative power, capable of reshaping individuals from within. This complexity means that how we choose to love—who, what, and how—ultimately defines us. In a modern context, understanding love as a guiding force can offer a more holistic view of morality and character.
Lessons from Saint Augustine for Personal Growth
Without veering into political territory, Augustine’s insights can provide valuable lessons for personal development. The essence lies in what genuinely matters to individuals—not merely their beliefs or expectations about the future. The transformation begins when we recognize that what we love shapes our identity and character.
Ultimately, love acts as a compass, steering us toward the type of individuals we aspire to become. According to Augustine, the roots of goodness lie not in our doctrines but in our capacity to love authentically and thoughtfully.