Secunda Secundae · Faith

Of the Gift of Understanding

II-II, q. 8 · Eight articles

Prooemium · Thomas's plan for this question

Deinde considerandum est de dono intellectus et scientiae, quae respondent virtuti fidei. Et circa donum intellectus quaeruntur octo. Primo, utrum intellectus sit donum spiritus sancti. Secundo, utrum possit simul esse in eodem cum fide. Tertio, utrum intellectus qui est donum sit speculativus tantum, vel etiam practicus. Quarto, utrum omnes qui sunt in gratia habeant donum intellectus. Quinto, utrum hoc donum inveniatur in aliquibus absque gratia. Sexto, quomodo se habeat donum intellectus ad alia dona. Septimo, de eo quod respondet huic dono in beatitudinibus. Octavo, de eo quod respondet ei in fructibus.

We must now consider the gifts of understanding and knowledge, which respond to the virtue of faith. With regard to the gift of understanding there are eight points of inquiry:

(1) Whether understanding is a gift of the Holy Ghost?

(2) Whether it can be together with faith in the same person?

(3) Whether the understanding which is a gift of the Holy Ghost, is only speculative, or practical also?

(4) Whether all who are in a state of grace have the gift of understanding?

(5) Whether this gift is to be found in those who are without grace?

(6) Of the relationship of the gift of understanding to the other gifts.

(7) Which of the beatitudes corresponds to this gift?

(8) Which of the fruits?

  1. 1 Whether Understanding Is a Gift of the Holy Ghost?
  2. 2 Whether the Gift of Understanding Is Compatible with Faith?
  3. 3 Whether the Gift of Understanding Is Merely Speculative or Also Practical?
  4. 4 Whether the Gift of Understanding Is in All Who Are in a State of Grace?
  5. 5 Whether the Gift of Understanding Is Found Also in Those Who Have Not Sanctifying Grace?
  6. 6 Whether the Gift of Understanding Is Distinct from the Other Gifts?
  7. 7 Whether the Sixth Beatitude, "Blessed Are the Clean of Heart," etc., Responds to the Gift of Understanding?
  8. 8 Whether Faith, Among the Fruits, Responds to the Gift of Understanding?

Articulus I

Whether Understanding Is a Gift of the Holy Ghost?

Arg. 1 Objection 1

Ad primum sic proceditur. Videtur quod intellectus non sit donum spiritus sancti. Dona enim gratuita distinguuntur a donis naturalibus, superadduntur enim eis. Sed intellectus est quidam habitus naturalis in anima, quo cognoscuntur principia naturaliter nota, ut patet in VI Ethic. Ergo non debet poni donum spiritus sancti.

It would seem that understanding is not a gift of the Holy Ghost. For the gifts of grace are distinct from the gifts of nature, since they are given in addition to the latter. Now understanding is a natural habit of the soul, whereby self-evident principles are known, as stated in Ethic. vi, 6. Therefore it should not be reckoned among the gifts of the Holy Ghost.

Arg. 2 Objection 2

Praeterea, dona divina participantur a creaturis secundum earum proportionem et modum, ut patet per Dionysium, in libro de Div. Nom. Sed modus humanae naturae est ut non simpliciter veritatem cognoscat, quod pertinet ad rationem intellectus, sed discursive, quod est proprium rationis, ut patet per Dionysium, in VII cap. de Div. Nom. Ergo cognitio divina quae hominibus datur magis debet dici donum rationis quam intellectus.

Further, the Divine gifts are shared by creatures according to their capacity and mode, as Dionysius states (Div. Nom. iv). Now the mode of human nature is to know the truth, not simply (which is a sign of understanding), but discursively (which is a sign of reason), as Dionysius explains (Div. Nom. vii). Therefore the Divine knowledge which is bestowed on man, should be called a gift of reason rather than a gift of understanding.

Arg. 3 Objection 3

Praeterea, in potentiis animae intellectus contra voluntatem dividitur, ut patet in III de anima. Sed nullum donum spiritus sancti dicitur voluntas. Ergo etiam nullum donum spiritus sancti debet dici intellectus.

Further, in the powers of the soul the understanding is condivided with the will (De Anima iii, 9, 10). Now no gift of the Holy Ghost is called after the will. Therefore no gift of the Holy Ghost should receive the name of understanding.

Sed contra On the contrary

Sed contra est quod dicitur Isaiae XI, requiescet super eum spiritus domini, spiritus sapientiae et intellectus.

On the contrary, It is written (Isa. 11:2): "The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom of understanding."

Respondeo I answer that

Respondeo dicendum quod nomen intellectus quandam intimam cognitionem importat, dicitur enim intelligere quasi intus legere. Et hoc manifeste patet considerantibus differentiam intellectus et sensus, nam cognitio sensitiva occupatur circa qualitates sensibiles exteriores; cognitio autem intellectiva penetrat usque ad essentiam rei, obiectum enim intellectus est quod quid est, ut dicitur in III de anima. Sunt autem multa genera eorum quae interius latent, ad quae oportet cognitionem hominis quasi intrinsecus penetrare. Nam sub accidentibus latet natura rerum substantialis, sub verbis latent significata verborum, sub similitudinibus et figuris latet veritas figurata: res etiam intelligibiles sunt quodammodo interiores respectu rerum sensibilium quae exterius sentiuntur, et in causis latent effectus et e converso. Unde respectu horum omnium potest dici intellectus. Sed cum cognitio hominis a sensu incipiat, quasi ab exteriori, manifestum est quod quanto lumen intellectus est fortius, tanto potest magis ad intima penetrare. Lumen autem naturale nostri intellectus est finitae virtutis, unde usque ad determinatum aliquid pertingere potest. Indiget igitur homo supernaturali lumine ut ulterius penetret ad cognoscendum quaedam quae per lumen naturale cognoscere non valet. Et illud lumen supernaturale homini datum vocatur donum intellectus.

I answer that, Understanding implies an intimate knowledge, for "intelligere" [to understand] is the same as "intus legere" [to read inwardly]. This is clear to anyone who considers the difference between intellect and sense, because sensitive knowledge is concerned with external sensible qualities, whereas intellective knowledge penetrates into the very essence of a thing, because the object of the intellect is "what a thing is," as stated in De Anima iii, 6.

Now there are many kinds of things that are hidden within, to find which human knowledge has to penetrate within so to speak. Thus, under the accidents lies hidden the nature of the substantial reality, under words lies hidden their meaning; under likenesses and figures the truth they denote lies hidden (because the intelligible world is enclosed within as compared with the sensible world, which is perceived externally), and effects lie hidden in their causes, and vice versa. Hence we may speak of understanding with regard to all these things.

Since, however, human knowledge begins with the outside of things as it were, it is evident that the stronger the light of the understanding, the further can it penetrate into the heart of things. Now the natural light of our understanding is of finite power; wherefore it can reach to a certain fixed point. Consequently man needs a supernatural light in order to penetrate further still so as to know what it cannot know by its natural light: and this supernatural light which is bestowed on man is called the gift of understanding.

Ad 1 Reply to Objection 1

Ad primum ergo dicendum quod per lumen naturale nobis inditum statim cognoscuntur quaedam principia communia quae sunt naturaliter nota. Sed quia homo ordinatur ad beatitudinem supernaturalem, ut supra dictum est, necesse est quod homo ulterius pertingat ad quaedam altiora. Et ad hoc requiritur donum intellectus.

The natural light instilled within us, manifests only certain general principles, which are known naturally. But since man is ordained to supernatural happiness, as stated above (Q. 2, A. 3; I-II, Q. 3, A. 8), man needs to reach to certain higher truths, for which he requires the gift of understanding.

Ad 2 Reply to Objection 2

Ad secundum dicendum quod discursus rationis semper incipit ab intellectu et terminatur ad intellectum, ratiocinamur enim procedendo ex quibusdam intellectis, et tunc rationis discursus perficitur quando ad hoc pervenimus ut intelligamus illud quod prius erat ignotum. Quod ergo ratiocinamur ex aliquo praecedenti intellectu procedit. Donum autem gratiae non procedit ex lumine naturae, sed superadditur ei, quasi perficiens ipsum. Et ideo ista superadditio non dicitur ratio, sed magis intellectus, quia ita se habet lumen superadditum ad ea quae nobis supernaturaliter innotescunt sicut se habet lumen naturale ad ea quae primordialiter cognoscimus.

The discourse of reason always begins from an understanding and ends at an understanding; because we reason by proceeding from certain understood principles, and the discourse of reason is perfected when we come to understand what hitherto we ignored. Hence the act of reasoning proceeds from something previously understood. Now a gift of grace does not proceed from the light of nature, but is added thereto as perfecting it. Wherefore this addition is not called "reason" but "understanding," since the additional light is in comparison with what we know supernaturally, what the natural light is in regard to those things which we know from the first.

Ad 3 Reply to Objection 3

Ad tertium dicendum quod voluntas nominat simpliciter appetitivum motum, absque determinatione alicuius excellentiae. Sed intellectus nominat quandam excellentiam cognitionis penetrandi ad intima. Et ideo supernaturale donum magis nominatur nomine intellectus quam nomine voluntatis.

"Will" denotes simply a movement of the appetite without indicating any excellence; whereas "understanding" denotes a certain excellence of a knowledge that penetrates into the heart of things. Hence the supernatural gift is called after the understanding rather than after the will.

Articulus II

Whether the Gift of Understanding Is Compatible with Faith?

Arg. 1 Objection 1

Ad secundum sic proceditur. Videtur quod donum intellectus non simul habeatur cum fide. Dicit enim Augustinus, in libro octogintatrium quaest., id quod intelligitur intelligentis comprehensione finitur. Sed id quod creditur non comprehenditur, secundum illud apostoli, ad Philipp. III, non quod iam comprehenderim aut perfectus sim. Ergo videtur quod fides et intellectus non possint esse in eodem.

It would seem that the gift of understanding is incompatible with faith. For Augustine says (QQ. lxxxiii, qu. 15) that "the thing which is understood is bounded by the comprehension of him who understands it." But the thing which is believed is not comprehended, according to the word of the Apostle to the Philippians 3:12: "Not as though I had already comprehended [Douay: 'attained'], or were already perfect." Therefore it seems that faith and understanding are incompatible in the same subject.

Arg. 2 Objection 2

Praeterea, omne quod intelligitur intellectu videtur. Sed fides est de non apparentibus, ut supra dictum est. Ergo fides non potest simul esse in eodem cum intellectu.

Further, whatever is understood is seen by the understanding. But faith is of things that appear not, as stated above (Q. 1, A. 4; Q. 4, A. 1). Therefore faith is incompatible with understanding in the same subject.

Arg. 3 Objection 3

Praeterea, intellectus est certior quam scientia. Sed scientia et fides non possunt esse de eodem, ut supra habitum est. Multo ergo minus intellectus et fides.

Further, understanding is more certain than science. But science and faith are incompatible in the same subject, as stated above (Q. 1, AA. 4, 5). Much less, therefore, can understanding and faith be in the same subject.

Sed contra On the contrary

Sed contra est quod Gregorius dicit, in libro Moral., quod intellectus de auditis mentem illustrat. Sed aliquis habens fidem potest esse illustratus mente circa audita, unde dicitur Luc. ult. quod dominus aperuit discipulis suis sensum ut intelligerent Scripturas. Ergo intellectus potest simul esse cum fide.

On the contrary, Gregory says (Moral. i, 15) that "understanding enlightens the mind concerning the things it has heard." Now one who has faith can be enlightened in his mind concerning what he has heard; thus it is written (Luke 24:27, 32) that Our Lord opened the scriptures to His disciples, that they might understand them. Therefore understanding is compatible with faith.

Respondeo I answer that

Respondeo dicendum quod hic duplici distinctione est opus, una quidem ex parte fidei; alia autem ex parte intellectus. Ex parte quidem fidei, distinguendum est quod quaedam per se et directe cadunt sub fide, quae naturalem rationem excedunt, sicut Deum esse trinum et unum, filium Dei esse incarnatum. Quaedam vero cadunt sub fide quasi ordinata ad ista secundum aliquem modum, sicut omnia quae in Scriptura divina continentur. Ex parte vero intellectus, distinguendum est quod dupliciter dici possumus aliqua intelligere. Uno modo, perfecte, quando scilicet pertingimus ad cognoscendum essentiam rei intellectae, et ipsam veritatem enuntiabilis intellecti, secundum quod in se est. Et hoc modo ea quae directe cadunt sub fide intelligere non possumus, durante statu fidei. Sed quaedam alia ad fidem ordinata etiam hoc modo intelligi possunt. Alio modo contingit aliquid intelligi imperfecte, quando scilicet ipsa essentia rei, vel veritas propositionis, non cognoscitur quid sit aut quomodo sit, sed tamen cognoscitur quod ea quae exterius apparent veritati non contrariantur; inquantum scilicet homo intelligit quod propter ea quae exterius apparent non est recedendum ab his quae sunt fidei. Et secundum hoc nihil prohibet, durante statu fidei, intelligere etiam ea quae per se sub fide cadunt.

I answer that, We need to make a twofold distinction here: one on the side of faith, the other on the part of understanding.

On the side of faith the distinction to be made is that certain things, of themselves, come directly under faith, such as the mystery to three Persons in one God, and the incarnation of God the Son; whereas other things come under faith, through being subordinate, in one way or another, to those just mentioned, for instance, all that is contained in the Divine Scriptures.

On the part of understanding the distinction to be observed is that there are two ways in which we may be said to understand. In one way, we understand a thing perfectly, when we arrive at knowing the essence of the thing we understand, and the very truth considered in itself of the proposition understood. In this way, so long as the state of faith lasts, we cannot understand those things which are the direct object of faith: although certain other things that are subordinate to faith can be understood even in this way.

In another way we understand a thing imperfectly, when the essence of a thing or the truth of a proposition is not known as to its quiddity or mode of being, and yet we know that whatever be the outward appearances, they do not contradict the truth, in so far as we understand that we ought not to depart from matters of faith, for the sake of things that appear externally. In this way, even during the state of faith, nothing hinders us from understanding even those things which are the direct object of faith.

Ad 1 Reply to Objection 1

Et per hoc patet responsio ad obiecta. Nam primae tres rationes procedunt secundum quod aliquid perfecte intelligitur. Ultima autem ratio procedit de intellectu eorum quae ordinantur ad fidem.

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Ad argumenta Reply to the objections

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This suffices for the Replies to the Objections: for the first three argue in reference to perfect understanding, while the last refers to the understanding of matters subordinate to faith.

Articulus III

Whether the Gift of Understanding Is Merely Speculative or Also Practical?

Arg. 1 Objection 1

Ad tertium sic proceditur. Videtur quod intellectus qui ponitur donum spiritus sancti non sit practicus, sed speculativus tantum. Intellectus enim, ut Gregorius dicit, in I Moral., altiora quaedam penetrat. Sed ea quae pertinent ad intellectum practicum non sunt alta, sed quaedam infima, scilicet singularia, circa quae sunt actus. Ergo intellectus qui ponitur donum non est intellectus practicus.

It would seem that understanding, considered as a gift of the Holy Ghost, is not practical, but only speculative. For, according to Gregory (Moral. i, 32), "understanding penetrates certain more exalted things." But the practical intellect is occupied, not with exalted, but with inferior things, viz. singulars, about which actions are concerned. Therefore understanding, considered as a gift, is not practical.

Arg. 2 Objection 2

Praeterea, intellectus qui est donum est dignius aliquid quam intellectus qui est virtus intellectualis. Sed intellectus qui est virtus intellectualis est solum circa necessaria, ut patet per philosophum, in VI Ethic. Ergo multo magis intellectus qui est donum est solum circa necessaria. Sed intellectus practicus non est circa necessaria, sed circa contingentia aliter se habere, quae opere humano fieri possunt. Ergo intellectus qui est donum non est intellectus practicus.

Further, the gift of understanding is something more excellent than the intellectual virtue of understanding. But the intellectual virtue of understanding is concerned with none but necessary things, according to the Philosopher (Ethic. vi, 6). Much more, therefore, is the gift of understanding concerned with none but necessary matters. Now the practical intellect is not about necessary things, but about things which may be otherwise than they are, and which may result from man's activity. Therefore the gift of understanding is not practical.

Arg. 3 Objection 3

Praeterea, donum intellectus illustrat mentem ad ea quae naturalem rationem excedunt. Sed operabilia humana, quorum est practicus intellectus, non excedunt naturalem rationem, quae dirigit in rebus agendis, ut ex supradictis patet. Ergo intellectus qui est donum non est intellectus practicus.

Further, the gift of understanding enlightens the mind in matters which surpass natural reason. Now human activities, with which the practical intellect is concerned, do not surpass natural reason, which is the directing principle in matters of action, as was made clear above (I-II, Q. 58, A. 2; I-II, Q. 71, A. 6). Therefore the gift of understanding is not practical.

Sed contra On the contrary

Sed contra est quod dicitur in Psalm., intellectus bonus omnibus facientibus eum.

On the contrary, It is written (Ps. 110:10): "A good understanding to all that do it."

Respondeo I answer that

Respondeo dicendum quod, sicut dictum est, donum intellectus non solum se habet ad ea quae primo et principaliter cadunt sub fide, sed etiam ad omnia quae ad fidem ordinantur. Operationes autem bonae quendam ordinem ad fidem habent, nam fides per dilectionem operatur, ut apostolus dicit, ad Gal. V. Et ideo donum intellectus etiam ad quaedam operabilia se extendit, non quidem ut circa ea principaliter versetur; sed inquantum in agendis regulamur rationibus aeternis, quibus conspiciendis et consulendis, secundum Augustinum, XII de Trin., inhaeret superior ratio, quae dono intellectus perficitur.

I answer that, As stated above (A. 2), the gift of understanding is not only about those things which come under faith first and principally, but also about all things subordinate to faith. Now good actions have a certain relationship to faith: since "faith worketh through charity," according to the Apostle (Gal. 5:6). Hence the gift of understanding extends also to certain actions, not as though these were its principal object, but in so far as the rule of our actions is the eternal law, to which the higher reason, which is perfected by the gift of understanding, adheres by contemplating and consulting it, as Augustine states (De Trin. xii, 7).

Ad 1 Reply to Objection 1

Ad primum ergo dicendum quod operabilia humana, secundum quod in se considerantur, non habent aliquam excellentiae altitudinem. Sed secundum quod referuntur ad regulam legis aeternae et ad finem beatitudinis divinae, sic altitudinem habent, ut circa ea possit esse intellectus.

The things with which human actions are concerned are not surpassingly exalted considered in themselves, but, as referred to the rule of the eternal law, and to the end of Divine happiness, they are exalted so that they can be the matter of understanding.

Ad 2 Reply to Objection 2

Ad secundum dicendum quod hoc ipsum pertinet ad dignitatem doni quod est intellectus, quod intelligibilia aeterna vel necessaria considerat non solum secundum quod in se sunt, sed etiam secundum quod sunt regulae quaedam humanorum actuum, quia quanto virtus cognoscitiva ad plura se extendit, tanto nobilior est.

The excellence of the gift of understanding consists precisely in its considering eternal or necessary matters, not only as they are rules of human actions, because a cognitive virtue is the more excellent, according to the greater extent of its object.

Ad 3 Reply to Objection 3

Ad tertium dicendum quod regula humanorum actuum est et ratio humana et lex aeterna, ut supra dictum est. Lex autem aeterna excedit naturalem rationem. Et ideo cognitio humanorum actuum secundum quod regulantur a lege aeterna, excedit rationem naturalem, et indiget supernaturali lumine doni spiritus sancti.

The rule of human actions is the human reason and the eternal law, as stated above (I-II, Q. 71, A. 6). Now the eternal law surpasses human reason: so that the knowledge of human actions, as ruled by the eternal law, surpasses the natural reason, and requires the supernatural light of a gift of the Holy Ghost.

Articulus IV

Whether the Gift of Understanding Is in All Who Are in a State of Grace?

Arg. 1 Objection 1

Ad quartum sic proceditur. Videtur quod donum intellectus non insit omnibus hominibus habentibus gratiam. Dicit enim Gregorius, II Moral., quod donum intellectus datur contra hebetudinem mentis. Sed multi habentes gratiam adhuc patiuntur mentis hebetudinem. Ergo donum intellectus non est in omnibus habentibus gratiam.

It would seem that the gift of understanding is not in all who are in a state of grace. For Gregory says (Moral. ii, 49) that "the gift of understanding is given as a remedy against dulness of mind." Now many who are in a state of grace suffer from dulness of mind. Therefore the gift of understanding is not in all who are in a state of grace.

Arg. 2 Objection 2

Praeterea, inter ea quae ad cognitionem pertinent sola fides videtur esse necessaria ad salutem, quia per fidem Christus habitat in cordibus nostris, ut dicitur ad Ephes. III. Sed non omnes habentes fidem habent donum intellectus, immo qui credunt, debent orare ut intelligant, sicut Augustinus dicit, in libro de Trin. Ergo donum intellectus non est necessarium ad salutem. Non ergo est in omnibus habentibus gratiam.

Further, of all the things that are connected with knowledge, faith alone seems to be necessary for salvation, since by faith Christ dwells in our hearts, according to Eph. 3:17. Now the gift of understanding is not in everyone that has faith; indeed, those who have faith ought to pray that they may understand, as Augustine says (De Trin. xv, 27). Therefore the gift of understanding is not necessary for salvation: and, consequently, is not in all who are in a state of grace.

Arg. 3 Objection 3

Praeterea, ea quae sunt communia omnibus habentibus gratiam nunquam ab habentibus gratiam subtrahuntur. Sed gratia intellectus et aliorum donorum aliquando se utiliter subtrahit, quandoque enim, dum sublimia intelligendo in elationem se animus erigit, in rebus imis et vilibus gravi hebetudine pigrescit, ut Gregorius dicit, in II Moral. Ergo donum intellectus non est in omnibus habentibus gratiam.

Further, those things which are common to all who are in a state of grace, are never withdrawn from them. Now the grace of understanding and of the other gifts sometimes withdraws itself profitably, for, at times, "when the mind is puffed up with understanding sublime things, it becomes sluggish and dull in base and vile things," as Gregory observes (Moral. ii, 49). Therefore the gift of understanding is not in all who are in a state of grace.

Sed contra On the contrary

Sed contra est quod dicitur in Psalm., nescierunt neque intellexerunt, in tenebris ambulant. Sed nullus habens gratiam ambulat in tenebris, secundum illud Ioan. VIII, qui sequitur me non ambulat in tenebris. Ergo nullus habens gratiam caret dono intellectus.

On the contrary, It is written (Ps. 81:5): "They have not known or understood, they walk on in darkness." But no one who is in a state of grace walks in darkness, according to John 8:12: "He that followeth Me, walketh not in darkness." Therefore no one who is in a state of grace is without the gift of understanding.

Respondeo I answer that

Respondeo dicendum quod in omnibus habentibus gratiam necesse est esse rectitudinem voluntatis, quia per gratiam praeparatur voluntas hominis ad bonum, ut Augustinus dicit. Voluntas autem non potest recte ordinari in bonum nisi praeexistente aliqua cognitione veritatis, quia obiectum voluntatis est bonum intellectum, ut dicitur in III de anima. Sicut autem per donum caritatis spiritus sanctus ordinat voluntatem hominis ut directe moveatur in bonum quoddam supernaturale, ita etiam per donum intellectus illustrat mentem hominis ut cognoscat veritatem quandam supernaturalem, in quam oportet tendere voluntatem rectam. Et ideo, sicut donum caritatis est in omnibus habentibus gratiam gratum facientem, ita etiam donum intellectus.

I answer that, In all who are in a state of grace, there must needs be rectitude of the will, since grace prepares man's will for good, according to Augustine (Contra Julian. Pelag. iv, 3). Now the will cannot be rightly directed to good, unless there be already some knowledge of the truth, since the object of the will is good understood, as stated in De Anima iii, 7. Again, just as the Holy Ghost directs man's will by the gift of charity, so as to move it directly to some supernatural good; so also, by the gift of understanding, He enlightens the human mind, so that it knows some supernatural truth, to which the right will needs to tend.

Therefore, just as the gift of charity is in all of those who have sanctifying grace, so also is the gift of understanding.

Ad 1 Reply to Objection 1

Ad primum ergo dicendum quod aliqui habentes gratiam gratum facientem possunt pati hebetudinem circa aliqua quae sunt praeter necessitatem salutis. Sed circa ea quae sunt de necessitate salutis sufficienter instruuntur a spiritu sancto, secundum illud I Ioan. II, unctio docet vos de omnibus.

Some who have sanctifying grace may suffer dulness of mind with regard to things that are not necessary for salvation; but with regard to those that are necessary for salvation, they are sufficiently instructed by the Holy Ghost, according to 1 John 2:27: "His unction teacheth you of all things."

Ad 2 Reply to Objection 2

Ad secundum dicendum quod etsi non omnes habentes fidem plene intelligant ea quae proponuntur credenda, intelligunt tamen ea esse credenda, et quod ab eis pro nullo est deviandum.

Although not all who have faith understand fully the things that are proposed to be believed, yet they understand that they ought to believe them, and that they ought nowise to deviate from them.

Ad 3 Reply to Objection 3

Ad tertium dicendum quod donum intellectus nunquam se subtrahit sanctis circa ea quae sunt necessaria ad salutem. Sed circa alia interdum se subtrahit, ut non omnia ad liquidum per intellectum penetrare possint, ad hoc quod superbiae materia subtrahatur.

With regard to things necessary for salvation, the gift of understanding never withdraws from holy persons: but, in order that they may have no incentive to pride, it does withdraw sometimes with regard to other things, so that their mind is unable to penetrate all things clearly.

Articulus V

Whether the Gift of Understanding Is Found Also in Those Who Have Not Sanctifying Grace?

Arg. 1 Objection 1

Ad quintum sic proceditur. Videtur quod intellectus donum inveniatur etiam in non habentibus gratiam gratum facientem. Augustinus enim, exponens illud Psalm., concupivit anima mea desiderare iustificationes tuas, dicit quod praevolat intellectus, sequitur tardus aut nullus affectus. Sed in omnibus habentibus gratiam gratum facientem est promptus affectus, propter caritatem. Ergo donum intellectus potest esse in his qui non habent gratiam gratum facientem.

It would seem that the gift of understanding is found also in those who have not sanctifying grace. For Augustine, in expounding the words of Ps. 118:20: "My soul hath coveted to long for Thy justifications," says: "Understanding flies ahead, and man's will is weak and slow to follow." But in all who have sanctifying grace, the will is prompt on account of charity. Therefore the gift of understanding can be in those who have not sanctifying grace.

Arg. 2 Objection 2

Praeterea, Danielis X dicitur quod intelligentia opus est in visione prophetica, et ita videtur quod prophetia non sit sine dono intellectus. Sed prophetia potest esse sine gratia gratum faciente, ut patet Matth. VII, ubi dicentibus, in nomine tuo prophetavimus, respondetur, nunquam novi vos. Ergo donum intellectus potest esse sine gratia gratum faciente.

Further, it is written (Dan. 10:1) that "there is need of understanding in a" prophetic "vision," so that, seemingly, there is no prophecy without the gift of understanding. But there can be prophecy without sanctifying grace, as evidenced by Matt. 7:22, where those who say: "We have prophesied in Thy name [Vulg.: 'Have we not prophesied in Thy name?']," are answered with the words: "I never knew you." Therefore the gift of understanding can be without sanctifying grace.

Arg. 3 Objection 3

Praeterea, donum intellectus respondet virtuti fidei, secundum illud Isaiae VII, secundum aliam litteram, nisi credideritis, non intelligetis. Sed fides potest esse sine gratia gratum faciente. Ergo etiam donum intellectus.

Further, the gift of understanding responds to the virtue of faith, according to Isa. 7:9, following another reading [The Septuagint]: "If you will not believe you shall not understand." Now faith can be without sanctifying grace. Therefore the gift of understanding can be without it.

Sed contra On the contrary

Sed contra est quod dominus dicit, Ioan. VI, omnis qui audivit a patre et didicit, venit ad me. Sed per intellectum audita addiscimus vel penetramus, ut patet per Gregorium, in I Moral. Ergo quicumque habet intellectus donum venit ad Christum. Quod non est sine gratia gratum faciente. Ergo donum intellectus non est sine gratia gratum faciente.

On the contrary, Our Lord said (John 6:45): "Every one that hath heard of the Father, and hath learned, cometh to Me." Now it is by the intellect, as Gregory observes (Moral. i, 32), that we learn or understand what we hear. Therefore whoever has the gift of understanding, cometh to Christ, which is impossible without sanctifying grace. Therefore the gift of understanding cannot be without sanctifying grace.

Respondeo I answer that

Respondeo dicendum quod, sicut supra dictum est, dona spiritus sancti perficiunt animam secundum quod est bene mobilis a spiritu sancto. Sic ergo intellectuale lumen gratiae ponitur donum intellectus, inquantum intellectus hominis est bene mobilis a spiritu sancto. Huius autem motus consideratio in hoc est quod homo apprehendat veritatem circa finem. Unde nisi usque ad hoc moveatur a spiritu sancto intellectus humanus ut rectam aestimationem de fine habeat, nondum assecutus est donum intellectus; quantumcumque ex illustratione spiritus alia quaedam praeambula cognoscat. Rectam aut aestimationem de ultimo fine non habet nisi ille qui circa finem non errat, sed ei firmiter inhaeret tanquam optimo. Quod est solum habentis gratiam gratum facientem, sicut etiam in moralibus rectam aestimationem habet homo de fine per habitum virtutis. Unde donum intellectus nullus habet sine gratia gratum faciente.

I answer that, As stated above (I-II, Q. 68, AA. 1, 2) the gifts of the Holy Ghost perfect the soul, according as it is amenable to the motion of the Holy Ghost. Accordingly then, the intellectual light of grace is called the gift of understanding, in so far as man's understanding is easily moved by the Holy Ghost, the consideration of which movement depends on a true apprehension of the end. Wherefore unless the human intellect be moved by the Holy Ghost so far as to have a right estimate of the end, it has not yet obtained the gift of understanding, however much the Holy Ghost may have enlightened it in regard to other truths that are preambles to the faith.

Now to have a right estimate about the last end one must not be in error about the end, and must adhere to it firmly as to the greatest good: and no one can do this without sanctifying grace; even as in moral matters a man has a right estimate about the end through a habit of virtue. Therefore no one has the gift of understanding without sanctifying grace.

Ad 1 Reply to Objection 1

Ad primum ergo dicendum quod Augustinus intellectum nominat quamcumque illustrationem intellectualem. Quae tamen non pertingit ad perfectam doni rationem nisi usque ad hoc mens hominis deducatur ut rectam aestimationem habeat homo circa finem.

By understanding Augustine means any kind of intellectual light, that, however, does not fulfil all the conditions of a gift, unless the mind of man be so far perfected as to have a right estimate about the end.

Ad 2 Reply to Objection 2

Ad secundum dicendum quod intelligentia quae necessaria est ad prophetiam est quaedam illustratio mentis circa ea quae prophetis revelantur. Non est autem illustratio mentis circa aestimationem rectam de ultimo fine, quae pertinet ad donum intellectus.

The understanding that is requisite for prophecy, is a kind of enlightenment of the mind with regard to the things revealed to the prophet: but it is not an enlightenment of the mind with regard to a right estimate about the last end, which belongs to the gift of understanding.

Ad 3 Reply to Objection 3

Ad tertium dicendum quod fides importat solum assensum ad ea quae proponuntur. Sed intellectus importat quandam perceptionem veritatis, quae non potest esse circa finem nisi in eo qui habet gratiam gratum facientem, ut dictum est. Et ideo non est similis ratio de intellectu et fide.

Faith implies merely assent to what is proposed but understanding implies a certain perception of the truth, which perception, except in one who has sanctifying grace, cannot regard the end, as stated above. Hence the comparison fails between understanding and faith.

Articulus VI

Whether the Gift of Understanding Is Distinct from the Other Gifts?

Arg. 1 Objection 1

Ad sextum sic proceditur. Videtur quod donum intellectus non distinguatur ab aliis donis. Quorum enim opposita sunt eadem, ipsa quoque sunt eadem. Sed sapientiae opponitur stultitia, hebetudini intellectus, praecipitationi consilium, ignorantiae scientia, ut patet per Gregorium, II Moral. Non videntur autem differre stultitia, hebetudo, ignorantia et praecipitatio. Ergo nec intellectus distinguitur ab aliis donis.

It would seem that the gift of understanding is not distinct from the other gifts. For there is no distinction between things whose opposites are not distinct. Now "wisdom is contrary to folly, understanding is contrary to dulness, counsel is contrary to rashness, knowledge is contrary to ignorance," as Gregory states (Moral. ii, 49). But there would seem to be no difference between folly, dulness, ignorance and rashness. Therefore neither does understanding differ from the other gifts.

Arg. 2 Objection 2

Praeterea, intellectus qui ponitur virtus intellectualis differt ab aliis intellectualibus virtutibus per hoc sibi proprium, quod est circa principia per se nota. Sed donum intellectus non est circa aliqua principia per se nota, quia ad ea quae naturaliter per se cognoscuntur sufficit naturalis habitus primorum principiorum; ad ea vero quae sunt supernaturalia sufficit fides, quia articuli fidei sunt sicut prima principia in supernaturali cognitione, sicut dictum est. Ergo donum intellectus non distinguitur ab aliis donis intellectualibus.

Further, the intellectual virtue of understanding differs from the other intellectual virtues in that it is proper to it to be about self-evident principles. But the gift of understanding is not about any self-evident principles, since the natural habit of first principles suffices in respect of those matters which are naturally self-evident: while faith is sufficient in respect of such things as are supernatural, since the articles of faith are like first principles in supernatural knowledge, as stated above (Q. 1, A. 7). Therefore the gift of understanding does not differ from the other intellectual gifts.

Arg. 3 Objection 3

Praeterea, omnis cognitio intellectiva vel est speculativa vel practica. Sed donum intellectus se habet ad utrumque, ut dictum est. Ergo non distinguitur ab aliis donis intellectualibus, sed omnia in se complectitur.

Further, all intellectual knowledge is either speculative or practical. Now the gift of understanding is related to both, as stated above (A. 3). Therefore it is not distinct from the other intellectual gifts, but comprises them all.

Sed contra On the contrary

Sed contra est quod quaecumque connumerantur ad invicem oportet esse aliquo modo ab invicem distincta, quia distinctio est principium numeri. Sed donum intellectus connumeratur aliis donis, ut patet Isaiae XI. Ergo donum intellectus est distinctum ab aliis donis.

On the contrary, When several things are enumerated together they must be, in some way, distinct from one another, because distinction is the origin of number. Now the gift of understanding is enumerated together with the other gifts, as appears from Isa. 11:2. Therefore the gift of understanding is distinct from the other gifts.

Respondeo I answer that

Respondeo dicendum quod distinctio doni intellectus ab aliis tribus donis, scilicet pietate, fortitudine et timore, manifesta est, quia donum intellectus pertinet ad vim cognoscitivam, illa vero tria pertinent ad vim appetitivam. Sed differentia huius doni intellectus ad alia tria, scilicet sapientiam, scientiam et consilium, quae etiam ad vim cognoscitivam pertinent, non est adeo manifesta. Videtur autem quibusdam quod donum intellectus distinguatur a dono scientiae et consilii per hoc quod illa duo pertineant ad practicam cognitionem, donum vero intellectus ad speculativam. A dono vero sapientiae, quod etiam ad speculativam cognitionem pertinet, distinguitur in hoc quod ad sapientiam pertinet iudicium, ad intellectum vero capacitas intellectus eorum quae proponuntur, sive penetratio ad intima eorum. Et secundum hoc supra numerum donorum assignavimus. Sed diligenter intuenti, donum intellectus non solum se habet circa speculanda, sed etiam circa operanda, ut dictum est, et similiter etiam donum scientiae circa utrumque se habet, ut infra dicetur. Et ideo oportet aliter eorum distinctionem accipere. Omnia enim haec quatuor dicta ordinantur ad supernaturalem cognitionem, quae in nobis per fidem fundatur. Fides autem est ex auditu, ut dicitur Rom. X. Unde oportet aliqua proponi homini ad credendum non sicut visa, sed sicut audita, quibus per fidem assentiat. Fides autem primo quidem et principaliter se habet ad veritatem primam; secundario, ad quaedam circa creaturas consideranda; et ulterius se extendit etiam ad directionem humanorum operum, secundum quod per dilectionem operatur, ut ex dictis patet. Sic igitur circa ea quae fidei proponuntur credenda duo requiruntur ex parte nostra. Primo quidem, ut intellectu penetrentur vel capiantur, et hoc pertinet ad donum intellectus. Secundo autem oportet ut de eis homo habeat iudicium rectum, ut aestimet his esse inhaerendum et ab eorum oppositis recedendum. Hoc igitur iudicium, quantum ad res divinas, pertinet ad donum sapientiae; quantum vero ad res creatas, pertinet ad donum scientiae; quantum vero ad applicationem ad singularia opera, pertinet ad donum consilii.

I answer that, The difference between the gift of understanding and three of the others, viz. piety, fortitude, and fear, is evident, since the gift of understanding belongs to the cognitive power, while the three belong to the appetitive power.

But the difference between this gift of understanding and the remaining three, viz. wisdom, knowledge, and counsel, which also belong to the cognitive power, is not so evident. To some [William of Auxerre, Sum. Aur. III, iii, 8], it seems that the gift of understanding differs from the gifts of knowledge and counsel, in that these two belong to practical knowledge, while the gift of understanding belongs to speculative knowledge; and that it differs from the gift of wisdom, which also belongs to speculative knowledge, in that wisdom is concerned with judgment, while understanding renders the mind apt to grasp the things that are proposed, and to penetrate into their very heart. And in this sense we have assigned the number of the gifts, above (I-II, Q. 68, A. 4).

But if we consider the matter carefully, the gift of understanding is concerned not only with speculative, but also with practical matters, as stated above (A. 3), and likewise, the gift of knowledge regards both matters, as we shall show further on (Q. 9, A. 3), and consequently, we must take their distinction in some other way. For all these four gifts are ordained to supernatural knowledge, which, in us, takes its foundation from faith. Now "faith is through hearing" (Rom. 10:17). Hence some things must be proposed to be believed by man, not as seen, but as heard, to which he assents by faith. But faith, first and principally, is about the First Truth, secondarily, about certain considerations concerning creatures, and furthermore extends to the direction of human actions, in so far as it works through charity, as appears from what has been said above (Q. 4, A. 2, ad 3).

Accordingly on the part of the things proposed to faith for belief, two things are requisite on our part: first that they be penetrated or grasped by the intellect, and this belongs to the gift of understanding. Secondly, it is necessary that man should judge these things aright, that he should esteem that he ought to adhere to these things, and to withdraw from their opposites: and this judgment, with regard to Divine things belong to the gift of wisdom, but with regard to created things, belongs to the gift of knowledge, and as to its application to individual actions, belongs to the gift of counsel.

Ad 1 Reply to Objection 1

Ad primum ergo dicendum quod praedicta differentia quatuor donorum manifeste competit distinctioni eorum quae Gregorius ponit eis esse opposita. Hebetudo enim acuitati opponitur. Dicitur autem per similitudinem intellectus acutus quando potest penetrare ad intima eorum quae proponuntur. Unde hebetudo mentis est per quam mens ad intima penetrare non sufficit. Stultus autem dicitur ex hoc quod perverse iudicat circa communem finem vitae. Et ideo proprie opponitur sapientiae, quae facit rectum iudicium circa universalem causam. Ignorantia vero importat defectum mentis etiam circa quaecumque particularia. Et ideo opponitur scientiae, per quam homo habet rectum iudicium circa particulares causas, scilicet circa creaturas. Praecipitatio vero manifeste opponitur consilio, per quod homo ad actionem non procedit ante deliberationem rationis.

The foregoing difference between those four gifts is clearly in agreement with the distinction of those things which Gregory assigns as their opposites. For dulness is contrary to sharpness, since an intellect is said, by comparison, to be sharp, when it is able to penetrate into the heart of the things that are proposed to it. Hence it is dulness of mind that renders the mind unable to pierce into the heart of a thing. A man is said to be a fool if he judges wrongly about the common end of life, wherefore folly is properly opposed to wisdom, which makes us judge aright about the universal cause. Ignorance implies a defect in the mind, even about any particular things whatever, so that it is contrary to knowledge, which gives man a right judgment about particular causes, viz. about creatures. Rashness is clearly opposed to counsel, whereby man does not proceed to action before deliberating with his reason.

Ad 2 Reply to Objection 2

Ad secundum dicendum quod donum intellectus est circa prima principia cognitionis gratuitae, aliter tamen quam fides. Nam ad fidem pertinet eis assentire, ad donum vero intellectus pertinet penetrare mente ea quae dicuntur.

The gift of understanding is about the first principles of that knowledge which is conferred by grace; but otherwise than faith, because it belongs to faith to assent to them, while it belongs to the gift of understanding to pierce with the mind the things that are said.

Ad 3 Reply to Objection 3

Ad tertium dicendum quod donum intellectus pertinet ad utramque cognitionem, scilicet speculativam et practicam, non quantum ad iudicium, sed quantum ad apprehensionem, ut capiantur ea quae dicuntur.

The gift of understanding is related to both kinds of knowledge, viz. speculative and practical, not as to the judgment, but as to apprehension, by grasping what is said.

Articulus VII

Whether the Sixth Beatitude, "Blessed Are the Clean of Heart," etc., Responds to the Gift of Understanding?

Arg. 1 Objection 1

Ad septimum sic proceditur. Videtur quod dono intellectus non respondeat beatitudo sexta, scilicet, beati mundo corde, quoniam ipsi Deum videbunt. Munditia enim cordis maxime videtur pertinere ad affectum. Sed donum intellectus non pertinet ad affectum, sed magis ad vim intellectivam. Ergo praedicta beatitudo non respondet dono intellectus.

It would seem that the sixth beatitude, "Blessed are the clean of heart, for they shall see God," does not respond to the gift of understanding. Because cleanness of heart seems to belong chiefly to the appetite. But the gift of understanding belongs, not to the appetite, but rather to the intellectual power. Therefore the aforesaid beatitude does not respond to the gift of understanding.

Arg. 2 Objection 2

Praeterea, Act. XV dicitur, fide purificans corda eorum. Sed per purificationem cordis acquiritur munditia cordis. Ergo praedicta beatitudo magis pertinet ad virtutem fidei quam ad donum intellectus.

Further, it is written (Acts 15:9): "Purifying their hearts by faith." Now cleanness of heart is acquired by the heart being purified. Therefore the aforesaid beatitude is related to the virtue of faith rather than to the gift of understanding.

Arg. 3 Objection 3

Praeterea, dona spiritus sancti perficiunt hominem in praesenti vita. Sed visio Dei non pertinet ad vitam praesentem, ipsa enim beatos facit, ut supra habitum est. Ergo sexta beatitudo, continens Dei visionem, non pertinet ad donum intellectus.

Further, the gifts of the Holy Ghost perfect man in the present state of life. But the sight of God does not belong to the present life, since it is that which gives happiness to the Blessed, as stated above (I-II, Q. 3, A. 8). Therefore the sixth beatitude which comprises the sight of God, does not respond to the gift of understanding.

Sed contra On the contrary

Sed contra est quod Augustinus dicit, in libro de Serm. Dom. in monte, sexta operatio spiritus sancti, quae est intellectus, convenit mundis corde, qui purgato oculo possunt videre quod oculus non vidit.

On the contrary, Augustine says (De Serm. Dom. in Monte i, 4): "The sixth work of the Holy Ghost which is understanding, is applicable to the clean of heart, whose eye being purified, they can see what eye hath not seen."

Respondeo I answer that

Respondeo dicendum quod in sexta beatitudine, sicut et in aliis, duo continentur, unum per modum meriti, scilicet munditia cordis; aliud per modum praemii, scilicet visio Dei, ut supra dictum est. Et utrumque pertinet aliquo modo ad donum intellectus. Est enim duplex munditia. Una quidem praeambula et dispositiva ad Dei visionem, quae est depuratio affectus ab inordinatis affectionibus, et haec quidem munditia cordis fit per virtutes et dona quae pertinent ad vim appetitivam. Alia vero munditia cordis est quae est quasi completiva respectu visionis divinae, et haec quidem est munditia mentis depuratae a phantasmatibus et erroribus, ut scilicet ea quae de Deo proponuntur non accipiantur per modum corporalium phantasmatum, nec secundum haereticas perversitates. Et hanc munditiam facit donum intellectus. Similiter etiam duplex est Dei visio. Una quidem perfecta, per quam videtur Dei essentia. Alia vero imperfecta, per quam, etsi non videamus de Deo quid est, videmus tamen quid non est, et tanto in hac vita Deum perfectius cognoscimus quanto magis intelligimus eum excedere quidquid intellectu comprehenditur. Et utraque Dei visio pertinet ad donum intellectus, prima quidem ad donum intellectus consummatum, secundum quod erit in patria; secunda vero ad donum intellectus inchoatum, secundum quod habetur in via.

I answer that, Two things are contained in the sixth beatitude, as also in the others, one by way of merit, viz. cleanness of heart; the other by way of reward, viz. the sight of God, as stated above (I-II, Q. 69, AA. 2, 4), and each of these, in some way, responds to the gift of understanding.

For cleanness is twofold. One is a preamble and a disposition to seeing God, and consists in the heart being cleansed of inordinate affections: and this cleanness of heart is effected by the virtues and gifts belonging to the appetitive power. The other cleanness of heart is a kind of complement to the sight of God; such is the cleanness of the mind that is purged of phantasms and errors, so as to receive the truths which are proposed to it about God, no longer by way of corporeal phantasms, nor infected with heretical misrepresentations: and this cleanness is the result of the gift of understanding.

Again, the sight of God is twofold. One is perfect, whereby God's Essence is seen: the other is imperfect, whereby, though we see not what God is, yet we see what He is not; and whereby, the more perfectly do we know God in this life, the more we understand that He surpasses all that the mind comprehends. Each of these visions of God belongs to the gift of understanding; the first, to the gift of understanding in its state of perfection, as possessed in heaven; the second, to the gift of understanding in its state of inchoation, as possessed by wayfarers.

Ad 1 Reply to Objection 1

Et per hoc patet responsio ad obiecta. Nam primae duae rationes procedunt de prima munditia. Tertia vero de perfecta Dei visione, dona autem et hic nos perficiunt secundum quandam inchoationem, et in futuro implebuntur, ut supra dictum est.

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Ad argumenta Reply to the objections

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This suffices for the Replies to the Objections: for the first two arguments refer to the first kind of cleanness; while the third refers to the perfect vision of God. Moreover the gifts both perfect us in this life by way of inchoation, and will be fulfilled, as stated above (I-II, Q. 69, A. 2).

Articulus VIII

Whether Faith, Among the Fruits, Responds to the Gift of Understanding?

Arg. 1 Objection 1

Ad octavum sic proceditur. Videtur quod in fructibus fides non respondeat dono intellectus. Intellectus enim est fructus fidei, dicitur enim Isaiae VII, nisi credideritis, non intelligetis, secundum aliam litteram, ubi nos habemus, si non credideritis, non permanebitis. Non ergo fides est fructus intellectus.

It would seem that, among the fruits, faith does not respond to the gift of understanding. For understanding is the fruit of faith, since it is written (Isa. 7:9) according to another reading [The Septuagint]: "If you will not believe you shall not understand," where our version has: "If you will not believe, you shall not continue." Therefore fruit is not the fruit of understanding.

Arg. 2 Objection 2

Praeterea, prius non est fructus posterioris. Sed fides videtur esse prior intellectu, quia fides est fundamentum totius spiritualis aedificii, ut supra dictum est. Ergo fides non est fructus intellectus.

Further, that which precedes is not the fruit of what follows. But faith seems to precede understanding, since it is the foundation of the entire spiritual edifice, as stated above (Q. 4, AA. 1, 7). Therefore faith is not the fruit of understanding.

Arg. 3 Objection 3

Praeterea, plura sunt dona pertinentia ad intellectum quam pertinentia ad appetitum. Sed inter fructus ponitur tantum unum pertinens ad intellectum, scilicet fides, omnia vero alia pertinent ad appetitum. Ergo fides non magis videtur respondere intellectui quam sapientiae vel scientiae seu consilio.

Further, more gifts pertain to the intellect than to the appetite. Now, among the fruits, only one pertains to the intellect; namely, faith, while all the others pertain to the appetite. Therefore faith, seemingly, does not pertain to understanding more than to wisdom, knowledge or counsel.

Sed contra On the contrary

Sed contra est quod finis uniuscuiusque rei est fructus eius. Sed donum intellectus videtur principaliter ordinari ad certitudinem fidei, quae ponitur fructus, dicit enim Glossa, ad Gal. V, quod fides quae est fructus est de invisibilibus certitudo. Ergo in fructibus fides respondet dono intellectus.

On the contrary, The end of a thing is its fruit. Now the gift of understanding seems to be ordained chiefly to the certitude of faith, which certitude is reckoned a fruit. For a gloss on Gal. 5:22 says that the "faith which is a fruit, is certitude about the unseen." Therefore faith, among the fruits, responds to the gift of understanding.

Respondeo I answer that

Respondeo dicendum quod, sicut supra dictum est, cum de fructibus ageretur, fructus spiritus dicuntur quaedam ultima et delectabilia quae in nobis proveniunt ex virtute spiritus sancti. Ultimum autem delectabile habet rationem finis, qui est proprium obiectum voluntatis. Et ideo oportet quod id quod est ultimum et delectabile in voluntate sit quodammodo fructus omnium aliorum quae pertinent ad alias potentias. Secundum hoc ergo doni vel virtutis perficientis aliquam potentiam potest accipi duplex fructus, unus quidem pertinens ad suam potentiam; alius autem quasi ultimus, pertinens ad voluntatem. Et secundum hoc dicendum est quod dono intellectus respondet pro proprio fructu fides, idest fidei certitudo, sed pro ultimo fructu respondet ei gaudium, quod pertinet ad voluntatem.

I answer that, The fruits of the Spirit, as stated above (I-II, Q. 70, A. 1), when we were discussing them, are so called because they are something ultimate and delightful, produced in us by the power of the Holy Ghost. Now the ultimate and delightful has the nature of an end, which is the proper object of the will: and consequently that which is ultimate and delightful with regard to the will, must be, after a fashion, the fruit of all the other things that pertain to the other powers.

Accordingly, therefore, to this kind of gift of virtue that perfects a power, we may distinguish a double fruit: one, belonging to the same power; the other, the last of all as it were, belonging to the will. In this way we must conclude that the fruit which properly responds to the gift of understanding is faith, i.e. the certitude of faith; while the fruit that responds to it last of all is joy, which belongs to the will.

Ad 1 Reply to Objection 1

Ad primum ergo dicendum quod intellectus est fructus fidei quae est virtus. Sic autem non accipitur fides cum dicitur fructus, sed pro quadam certitudine fidei, ad quam homo pervenit per donum intellectus.

Understanding is the fruit of faith, taken as a virtue. But we are not taking faith in this sense here, but for a kind of certitude of faith, to which man attains by the gift of understanding.

Ad 2 Reply to Objection 2

Ad secundum dicendum quod fides non potest universaliter praecedere intellectum, non enim posset homo assentire credendo aliquibus propositis nisi ea aliqualiter intelligeret. Sed perfectio intellectus consequitur fidem quae est virtus, ad quam quidem intellectus perfectionem sequitur quaedam fidei certitudo.

Faith cannot altogether precede understanding, for it would be impossible to assent by believing what is proposed to be believed, without understanding it in some way. However, the perfection of understanding follows the virtue of faith: which perfection of understanding is itself followed by a kind of certainty of faith.

Ad 3 Reply to Objection 3

Ad tertium dicendum quod cognitionis practicae fructus non potest esse in ipsa, quia talis cognitio non scitur propter se, sed propter aliud. Sed cognitio speculativa habet fructum in seipsa, scilicet certitudinem eorum quorum est. Et ideo dono consilii, quod pertinet solum ad practicam cognitionem, non respondet aliquis fructus proprius. Donis autem sapientiae, intellectus et scientiae, quae possunt etiam ad speculativam cognitionem pertinere, respondet solum unus fructus, qui est certitudo significata nomine fidei. Plures autem fructus ponuntur pertinentes ad partem appetitivam, quia, sicut iam dictum est, ratio finis, quae importatur in nomine fructus, magis pertinet ad vim appetitivam quam intellectivam.

The fruit of practical knowledge cannot consist in that very knowledge, since knowledge of that kind is known not for its own sake, but for the sake of something else. On the other hand, speculative knowledge has its fruit in its very self, which fruit is the certitude about the thing known. Hence the gift of counsel, which belongs only to practical knowledge, has no corresponding fruit of its own: while the gifts of wisdom, understanding and knowledge, which can belongs also to speculative knowledge, have but one corresponding fruit, which is certainly denoted by the name of faith. The reason why there are several fruits pertaining to the appetitive faculty, is because, as already stated, the character of end, which the word fruit implies, pertains to the appetitive rather than to the intellective part.

Showing Thomas's answers only.