Chapter 11.—Number, Weight, Measure.
18. But because those things which
are impressed on the memory singly, can be conceived according to
number, measure seems to belong to the memory, but number to the
vision; because, although the multiplicity of such visions is
innumerable, yet a limit not to be transgressed is prescribed for
each in the memory. Therefore, measure appears in the memory,
number in the vision of things: as there is some measure in visible
bodies themselves, to which measure the sense of those who see is
most numerously adjusted, and from one visible object is formed the
vision of many beholders, so that even a single person sees
commonly a single thing under a double appearance, on account of
the number of his two eyes, as we have laid down above. Therefore
there is some measure in those things whence visions are copied,
but in the visions themselves there is number. But the will which
unites and regulates these things, and combines them into a certain
unity, and does not quietly rest its desire of [sensuously]
perceiving or of conceiving, except in those things from whence the
visions are formed, resembles weight. And therefore I would just
notice by way of anticipation these three things, measure, number,
weight, which are to be perceived in all other things also. In the
meantime, I have now shown as much as I can, and to whom I can,
that the will is the uniter of the visible thing and of the vision;
as it were, of parent and of offspring; whether in [sensuous]
perception or in conception, and that it cannot be called either
parent or offspring. Wherefore time admonishes us to seek for this
same trinity in the inner man, and to strive to pass inwards from
that animal and carnal and (as he is called) outward man, of whom I
have so long spoken. And here we hope to be able to find an image
of God according to the Trinity, He Himself helping our efforts,
who as things themselves show, and as Holy Scripture also
witnesses, has regulated all things in measure, and number, and
weight.
743
743
Wisd. xi. 21