Theology of Aristotle

...and received it. Therefore, this golden work, having been most accurately corrected, will not hesitate to come into the light; otherwise, it would be absurd. For according to the opinion of Plato, books ought not to go into the public sphere unless they have first been approved by the judgment of a censor. But I have dedicated this most willingly to you, most clement and munificent Pontiff, both because you alone in this age of ours imitate that most famous Tuscan Maecenas of yours; indeed, from tender youth you have always been the true protector and guardian of all virtues. Also because I hope that I shall be doing a pleasing thing not only to all philosophers and theologians, but also to the Most Reverend Cardinal de’ Medici, Legate of Bologna and most worthy Apostolic Vice-Chancellor, Lord Julius, of your most illustrious family of the Medici, who, imitating the footsteps of your ancestors and of your Beatitude, has never hesitated to cherish all learned men. And finally, because you, most ample Pontiff, were deservedly elected the supreme angelic prelate of the sacrosanct Church, so that in the future, with your most holy Cardinals and your nephew, the most warlike Lorenzo de’ Medici, you may most fiercely defend the Christian Republic. Indeed, (under the auspices of your Majesty) the rebels against the Christian name shall be utterly cast down. Wherefore, it is not without reason that this mystical Philosophy of Aristotle, or if you prefer, this theological work, has been dedicated to your most august Highness, for it conforms in almost all points (except for a few) with theological dogmas and most holy institutions, so that it can now be said—to paraphrase what Augustine said of Plato—that here Aristotle is made a Christian. Wherefore, most clement Pontiff, with that most serene brow (which you are accustomed to show), deign to receive this volume—discovered, translated, and adorned—under the sacred patronage of your majesty, even though it is a work of philosophers accustomed to living in royal courts. What a manual it is in short pages, yet with such immense meanings, that it is scarcely to be grasped by human arms; for as it presents itself as a preface to the whole, it illuminates God, the Intellect, and the soul, exploring them most profoundly.