The concept of Divine substance in Christianity
Divine substance, according to the Catholic Church, refers to the eternal and immaterial essence of God, encompassing His attributes and qualities. It signifies the indivisible unity of the Trinity, confirming the belief in one God. Early Christianity emphasizes that divine substance is distinct from created beings and defines God's nature and authority. This essence is often misunderstood by humanity and is tied to the power and existence of Christ. Overall, divine substance highlights God's eternal, invisible essence that transcends human understanding.
Synonyms: Sacred essence, Spiritual force, Celestial substance, Divine essence, Spiritual matter
In Malay: Zat ketuhanan; In Spanish: Sustancia divina; In Swedish: Gudomlig substans; In Dutch: Goddelijke substantie; In German: Göttliche Substanz; In Finnish: Jumalallinen aine; In French: Substance divine
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Divine substance'
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) This is what is predicated of God, of whatever genus it may be, except what pertains to relation, with action belonging to the divine essence and not a notion.[1] (2) The essence or nature that belongs to God, highlighted in debates over whether the human soul is made from it.[2] (3) Refers to the essence of God's being, which is immaterial and invisible, as understood through the term 'spirit.'[3] (4) The essential nature or essence of God that encompasses His attributes and qualities.[4] (5) The essential quality or nature of God, which is considered to be eternal rather than temporal.[5]
From: Works of St. Anselm
(1) The essential nature or quality of a supreme being that is being discussed in the argument.[6]
From: The city of God
(1) The divine substance is the indivisible unity of the three parts of the Trinity, which is why there is one God Almighty.[7]
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) It is the invisible and incomprehensible aspect of God that the speaker is referring to, which is to be remembered despite seeing the form of the speaker.[8] (2) This is a characteristic of the soul, which some philosophers believe it to be, suggesting that the soul is eternal and less likely to lie because of its nature.[9] (3) The underlying essence or quality that defines what a god is, often misunderstood by mankind.[10] (4) The essence or nature attributed to the divine, sometimes considered unattainable for mortal souls.[11] (5) The eternal and invisible essence of God, distinct from all created things, indicating a difference in nature and authority.[12]