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loved philosophy so much, so that they could better
know the good and just life. We have
spoken about philosophy several times for this reason: that it is a
matter of great goodness, and by it a person can
have an understanding of how to know and love
God. Therefore I will tell you what this means.
[rubric:] What philosophy is, and Plato's answer. [/rubric]
True philosophy is having an understanding
of God and a fine love of wisdom, and knowing
the secrets and ordinances of divine and human
matters, in order to know God and His power; and what
people should be like so that they can conduct themselves
in a manner that would be agreeable to God. [see note]
The one who knows God and his mysteries well knows
philosophy in its entirety. All those who
have a good understanding of themselves are good philosophers. On this matter,
Plato responded to several people who asked him together,
and told them that he had learned this and needed nothing
more [see note], for he had spent all his time studying in
order to learn. Then it was said to him: "Master, it is good of you
to tell us some good word proceeding from your high understanding, as