Dist. 23, Divisio Textus
by St. Bonaventure
Source text: Public Domain Mark 1.0. English translation/apparatus/encoding: CC BY-NC 4.0, Wroot Press.
https://bonaventure.wrootpress.com/browse/1/d/23/q/bon-sent-I-d23-divisio
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### DIVISION OF THE TEXT.

Above the Master treated of the diversity of the divine names in general. Here begins the second part, in which he treats of the same in particular. And since certain names are substantial, certain relative, and these may be considered absolutely and in relation to one another: therefore this part has three parts. In the first he treats of the substantial names. In the second of the relative, below in the twenty-sixth distinction: *Now concerning the properties of the persons, which frequently* etc. In the third of these relatives in relation to one another, below in the thirty-third distinction: *After the foregoing, to be considered more inwardly*.

And since among the substantial names this name *person* is excepted from the general rule, which is that what is substantial is said of the three in the singular: therefore this name is first excepted from the general rule, showing that we ought to say three persons; and this in the present distinction. Secondly, however, he determines what is signified by this name *three* and by this name *persons*, when we say *three persons*, below in the next distinction: *Here it must be diligently inquired*.

The first part has four [parts]. In the first the Master excepts that name from the general rule. In the second he investigates the reason for this exception, there: *Hence arises here a difficult question*, showing that it was the poverty of human speech. In the third the Master raises objections against the assignment and resolves them, there: *But it is asked here, when we say Father and Son and Holy Spirit*. In the fourth he epilogizes the matters determined, so as to add, there: *Now sufficiently, as I think, it has been shown*. The subdivisions of these parts are clear of themselves. For each part is subdivided into two according to the two chapters which it contains.

### TREATMENT OF THE QUESTIONS.

For the understanding of those things which are said in the present distinction concerning these names *person*, *substance*, and *essence*, two questions are principally asked.

First it is asked concerning the translation of these names to divine matters.

Secondly concerning the numeration of the same in divine matters.

Concerning the first, three questions are asked.

First, whether the name of *person* ought to have been transferred there.

Secondly indeed, whether the name of *substance*.

Thirdly, whether the name of *essence*.

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