Section 1: Philosophical Inquiry into the Nature of Evil
Augustine confronts the enduring question of how evil can exist if God is perfectly good and omnipotent. He denies that evil is a created substance or independent entity. Instead, evil is defined as the privation or absence of good—a corruption or lack rather than a positive reality. This understanding preserves God’s goodness and the integrity of creation. Evil is parasitic upon good, lacking independent existence. Augustine’s definition reframes the problem by removing evil from being a force competing with God. This philosophical groundwork underlies his theodicy.
Section 2: Free Will and Moral Evil
Moral evil results from the misuse of free will granted to rational creatures. Humans possess freedom that allows turning away from God’s goodness, leading to sin and suffering. Free will is necessary for genuine love and moral responsibility. The existence of moral evil is thus linked to human choice rather than divine causation. Augustine affirms that freedom entails the possibility of wrongdoing. This section locates moral evil in the voluntary acts of created beings. Free will remains essential despite its misuse.
Section 3: Natural Evil and Its Explanation
Natural evils, such as disease and natural disasters, arise apart from human choice. Augustine explains these as consequences of a fallen creation corrupted by original sin. Such evils serve a divine purpose beyond human comprehension. They may function as tests, instruments of discipline, or means of moral growth. Natural evil highlights the disruption of God’s original order. Augustine maintains that God’s providence governs these events toward ultimate good. This section addresses suffering not directly caused by free will.
Section 4: The Role of Evil in the Divine Plan
God permits evil for greater goods such as free will, moral development, and salvation. Augustine emphasizes that divine justice and goodness remain intact despite evil’s existence. Evil is allowed temporarily and subordinated to God’s eternal purposes. This permission is consistent with God’s omnipotence and wisdom. The chapter highlights the mystery of God’s plan working through apparent evil. God’s ultimate victory ensures restoration and reconciliation. This section forms the heart of Augustine’s theodicy.
Section 5: The Soul’s Journey Toward Good
The soul progresses toward goodness and unity with God through repentance and grace. Evil serves as a contrast that reveals and intensifies the value of good. Augustine portrays the spiritual journey as movement from corruption toward divine likeness. Awareness of evil motivates repentance and reliance on God’s mercy. The soul’s transformation is both struggle and hope. Evil functions as a pedagogical tool in the divine economy. This conclusion affirms the soul’s ultimate destiny in God.