Most ancient myths and philosophies, and not a few modern scientific and philosophical theories, posit or assume that matter is eternal. Does that matter? Yes.
If matter is eternal, then creation can only be control, limitation, ordering. If matter is eternal, creativity can only be negative.
If matter is eternal, creation cannot be gift. If matter is eternal, creation cannot be bestowal of existence, a grant of being.
If matter is eternal, creation cannot be a free act of love.
If matter is eternal, can there even be such a thing as a free act of love?
And insofar as some metaphysics of substance are also metaphysics of eternal matter (Aristotle), the same applies.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE
Of Roots and Adventures
I have lived in Ohio, Michigan, Georgia (twice), Pennsylvania, Alabama (also twice), England, and Idaho. I left…
Our Most Popular Articles of 2025
It’s been a big year for First Things. Our website was completely redesigned, and stories like the…
Our Year in Film & Television—2025
First Things editors and writers share the most memorable films and TV shows they watched this year.…
