Principles

End

TG End

Definition: The end is that in which the beginning rests.

Clarification: As there are many ends that differ in many respects, the end must be considered in its different forms. The causal end, mentioned in the part about the beginning, is not the same as the end of termination, like the determined limits of a road, a field or a quantity. Whatever is determined by these limits cannot go beyond them, likewise, the intellect has certain determined limits beyond which its understanding cannot reach. And another end is the end of privation, which makes being end up in non being, or makes being cease to be through corruption. The said end is most necessary, as without it, there could be no being at all in the essence of goodness, greatness, duration etc.

Distinctions: One end is the end of another end, moving up from one end to the next all the way to the ultimate, infinite end beyond which there cannot be any further end. And by reason of its infinite essential goodness, etc. this supreme end constitutes an end in itself by its own nature, with no need to cause any beings dependent on it. Now this is the supreme end to which all other ends are directed and which all beings seek. This supreme end extends forth into overabundant being of infinite termination in infinite goodness, greatness, etc. wherein all other beings are encompassed and enclosed, as much so and even more than content contained by a container. And it has its own innate, intrinsic operation  so its goodness, greatness, etc. be not idle, without purpose or end. Within this end, all other, lesser ends are contained as we said, and in these, the human intellect reflects on its ultimate end.

Now this principle, namely the end, is most necessary in this art. Knowledge of its conditions enables the artist to find the right middle terms to conclusions and solutions to questions; when investigating the supreme end, he shall refer to the conditions pertaining to it as the supreme end in supreme goodness, greatness etc. And to inquire about lesser ends, he shall likewise refer to their specific conditions in lesser goodness, etc. And the same applies in its own way to the ends of termination and privation.

Nature: Its fullness and nature consist in the finisher, finishable and finishing; without this end, nothing at all can reach perfect repose, not even appetite.