Of God and His Creatures
Of Fate, whether there be such a thing, and if so, what it is
SOME when they say that all things are done by fate, mean by fate the
destiny* that is in things by disposition of
divine providence. Hence Boethius says: "Fate is a disposition
inherent in changeable things, whereby providence assigns them each to
their several orders." In this description of fate 'disposition' is
put for 'destiny.' It is said to be 'inherent in things,' to
distinguish fate from providence: for destiny as it is in the divine
mind, not yet impressed on creation, is providence; but inasmuch as
it is already unfolded in creatures, it is called 'fate.' He says 'in
changeable things' to show that the order of providence does not take
away from things their contingency and changeableness. In this
understanding, to deny fate is to deny divine providence. But because
with unbelievers we ought not even to have names in common, lest from
agreement in terminology there be taken an occasion of error, the
faithful should not use the name of 'fate,' not to appear to fall in
with those who construe fate wrongly, subjecting all things to the
necessity imposed by the stars.* Hence
Augustine says: "If any man calls by the name of fate the might or
power of God, let him keep his opinion, but mend his speech" (De
civit. Dei, V, 1). And Gregory: "Far be it from the minds of the
faithful to say that there is such a thing as fate" (Hom. 10 in
Epiphan.)
3.92 : In what sense one is said to be Fortunate, and how Man is aided by Higher Causes
3.94 : Of the Certainty of Divine Providence