(11:7) On the other hand, the existence of
substance follows also solely from its nature, inasmuch as its nature
involves existence. (See [vii] )
(11:8) But the reason for the existence of a triangle or a circle does not
follow from the nature of those figures, but from the order of universal
nature in extension. (9) From the latter it must follow, either that a
triangle necessarily exists, or that it is impossible that it should exist.
(11:10) So much is self-evident. (11) It follows therefrom that a thing
necessarily exists, if no cause or reason be granted which prevents it
existence.
(11:12) If, then, no cause or reason can be given, which prevents the
existence of God, or which destroys his existence, we must certainly
conclude that he necessarily does exist. (13) If such a reason or cause
hould be given, it must either be drawn from the very nature of God, or
be external to him, that is, drawn from another substance of another
nature. (11:14) For if it were of the same nature, God, by that very fact,
would be admitted to exist. (15) But substance of another nature could
have nothing in common with God (by [ii] ), and therefore would be unable
either to cause or to destroy his existence.
(11:16) As, then, a reason or cause which would annul the divine existence
cannot be drawn from anything external to the divine nature, such cause
must, perforce, if God does not exist, be drawn from God's own nature,
which would involve a contradiction.
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