synderesis

American  

[sin-duh-ree-sis] / ˌsɪn dəˈri sɪs /

noun

1. innate knowledge of the basic principles of morality.

2. Christian Mysticism. the essence of the soul that unites with God.

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Etymology

Origin of synderesis

1350–1400; Middle English < Medieval Latin syndērēsis, syntērēsis < Greek syntḗrēsis a guarding, equivalent to syntērē-, variant stem of syntēreîn to guard closely ( syn- syn- + tēreîn to guard) + -sis -sis

Example Sentences

Whence "synderesis" is said to incite to good, and to murmur at evil, inasmuch as through first principles we proceed to discover, and judge of what we have discovered.

From Summa Theologica, Part I (Prima Pars) From the Complete American Edition by Thomas, Aquinas, Saint

Now all the habits by which conscience is formed, although many, nevertheless have their efficacy from one first habit, the habit of first principles, which is called "synderesis."

From Summa Theologica, Part I (Prima Pars) From the Complete American Edition by Thomas, Aquinas, Saint

But "synderesis" does not regard opposites, but inclines to good only.

From Summa Theologica, Part I (Prima Pars) From the Complete American Edition by Thomas, Aquinas, Saint

Not a complete and accurate knowledge of the natural law is found in all minds, far from it; but synderesis is found in all.

From Moral Philosophy by Rickaby, Joseph , S. J.

It is therefore clear that "synderesis" is not a power, but a natural habit.

From Summa Theologica, Part I (Prima Pars) From the Complete American Edition by Thomas, Aquinas, Saint