Question 23 — Charity, Considered in Itself

In proper sequence, we must consider charity; and (1) charity itself; (2) the corresponding gift of wisdom. The first consideration will be fivefold: (1) Charity itself; (2) The object of charity; (3) Its acts; (4) The opposite vices; (5) The precepts relating thereto.

The first of these considerations will be twofold: (1) Charity, considered as regards itself; (2) Charity, considered in its relation to its subject. Under the first head there are eight points of inquiry:

(1) Whether charity is friendship?

• (2) Whether it is something created in the soul?
• (3) Whether it is a virtue?
• (4) Whether it is a special virtue?
• (5) Whether it is one virtue?
• (6) Whether it is the greatest of the virtues?
• (7) Whether any true virtue is possible without it?
• (8) Whether it is the form of the virtues?