Understanding the Soul: A Journey Through Its Two Regions
Welcome to our exploration of one of the most profound aspects of our faith and human existence—the soul. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the soul is the innermost aspect of humans, that which is of greatest value in them, that by which they are most especially in God's image: "soul" signifies the spiritual principle in man (CCC, 363). Let us delve into the fascinating structure of the soul, as understood through our faith, divided into two main regions: the Sensible Part and the Supra-sensible (or Intellectual) Part.
The Sensible Part of the Soul
The Sensible Part of the soul pertains to our capacity to interact with the physical world around us. It includes our senses and the ability to experience pleasure, pain, desires, and emotions. Through this part of the soul, we connect with God's creation in its tangible forms, appreciating the beauty of the world He has made and navigating our lives within it. This part of the soul enables us to experience life in its immediacy, grounding us in our human nature and the present moment.
The Supra-sensible Part of the Soul: The Intellectual Order
Moving beyond the immediate, the Supra-sensible Part of our soul engages with the intellectual and spiritual realms. This aspect of the soul houses our intellect and will—faculties that allow us to know God, to seek truth, and to love. The Catechism tells us that the human person, made in the image of God, is a being at once corporeal and spiritual (CCC, 362). Our intellect enables us to understand abstract concepts, to contemplate the divine, and to discern our path in life according to God’s will.
The will, on the other hand, empowers us to choose and to love, to align our desires with God's commands, and to act upon the good that our intellect discerns. This is beautifully reflected in the Bible: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" (Matthew 22:37). Our will is what enables us to commit to this greatest commandment, to choose God and to choose love.
Intellect and Will: Working in Harmony
The intellect and will are designed to work in harmony, guiding us toward our ultimate end—union with God. The intellect proposes truths, and the will moves us to embrace these truths through love and action. This dynamic interplay is crucial for our moral and spiritual development, allowing us to grow in virtue and to live out our faith in every aspect of our lives.
In understanding these aspects of the soul, we are called to a deeper appreciation of our own complexity and dignity as human beings created in the image of God. We are encouraged to cultivate both the sensible and supra-sensible parts of our souls, engaging fully with the world around us while also seeking the transcendent, aiming always for a closer union with the divine.
As we journey through life, let us remember the words of the Catechism: "The unity of soul and body is so profound that one has to consider the soul to be the 'form' of the body" (CCC, 365). In every thought, in every action, let us strive to reflect the image of God, nurturing both the sensible and supra-sensible parts of our souls, so that we may fulfill our calling to love and serve in His likeness.
Embark on a transformative journey to explore the profound role of the will in our spiritual lives. Discover how aligning our will with God's leads to true freedom, joy, and fulfillment. Click here for a deep dive into the teachings of saints and theologians, practical guidance on fortifying your will against temptation, and inspirational insights on living a life centered on God. Uncover the path to a deeper union with the Divine through the power of your will.
Dive into the fascinating world of the human intellect and its pivotal role in our journey towards God. Click here to explore how our capacity for understanding, reason, and wisdom connects us with the Divine. From the insights of ancient philosophers to the teachings of the Church and the wisdom of saints, discover how nurturing your intellect can lead you to a deeper understanding of faith, morality, and the universe. Unveil the beauty and power of the intellect in drawing closer to God and living a life of purpose and enlightenment.
Embark on a transformative journey to purify your internal senses and achieve spiritual clarity. Click here for an in-depth exploration of practical steps, guided by the wisdom of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and Scripture, designed to cleanse your vision, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. Discover how to attune your senses to the divine and open your heart to a closer relationship with God. This comprehensive guide offers insights, reflections, and actions to enrich your spiritual journey. Begin your path to purification and enlightenment today.