Explanation.-- Existence of this kind is conceived as an eternal
truth, like the essence of a thing, and, therefore, cannot be
explained by means of continuance or time, though continuance may
be conceived without a beginning or end.
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[AXIOMS]
[A.I] Everything which exists, exists either in itself or in
something else.
[A.II] That which cannot be conceived through anything else must be
conceived through itself.
[A.III] From a given definite cause an effect necessarily follows;
and, on the other hand, if no definite cause be granted,
it is impossible that an effect can follow.
[A.IV] The knowledge of an effect depends on and involves the
knowledge of a cause.
[A.V] Things which have nothing in common cannot be understood,
the one by means of the other; the conception of one does not
involve the conception of the other.
[A.VI] A true idea must correspond with its ideate or object.
[A.VII] If a thing can be conceived as non-existing, its essence
does not involve existence.
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[PROPOSITIONS:]
PROP. [I] Substance is by nature prior to its modifications.
Proof.- (1:1) This is clear from [D.iii] and [D.
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