(B)
Does this subordination among the angels comprise divers groups?
Yes (CVIII. i).
How many kinds are there of these groups?
These groups are of two kinds.
What are these two kinds of groups called?
They are called the hierarchies and orders or the angelic choirs.
What is meant by the word "hierarchy?"
The word" hierarchy" is derived from the Greek and means "sacred principality."
What does the word "principality" entail?
The word "principality" entails two things: a prince and a multitude organized under him (CVIII. 1).
When one speaks of a "sacred principality" what is meant by that?
"Sacred principality" understood in its strict and full sense means the whole assemblage of rational creatures called to participate in things holy under the sole government of God, who is the Supreme Prince and' Sovereign King of them all (ibid.).
There ought then to be only one sacred principality and only one hierarchy in the world governed by God?
Yes, if one considers the sacred principality on the part of God, who is the Supreme Prince and Sovereign King of all rational creatures governed by Him, there is only one sacred principality or only one hierarchy which embraces both angels and men (CVIII. 1).
Why then and in what sense does one speak of hierarchies in the plural, and even in a certain way of hierarchies in the world of pure spirits or angels only?
Because on the part of the multitude organized under a prince the principality differs according as that multitude in different ways is subject to the governing of the prince (CVIII. 1).
Is it possible to give an illustration of this diversity in things human?
Yes, for under the same king are to be found cities or provinces differing from each other in that they are ruled by different laws and by different ministers of state (ibid.).
Is there one hierarchy for human beings and another for the angels?
Yes, as long as there are human beings on earth, there is one hierarchy for them and another for the angels (ibid.).
Why as long as there are human beings on earth?
Because in heaven men are included in the hierarchy of the angels (CVIII. 8).
Next - The Catechism of the Summa - XXII. OF THE ANGELS: THE HIERARCHIES AND THE ORDERS (C)
Pegues OP, R P Thomas. Catechism of the "Summa Theologica" of Saint Thomas Aquinas for the Use of the Faithful (pp. 93-96). Veritatis Splendor Publications. Kindle Edition.
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