Hildegard of Bingen’s Approach to the Concept of "Nature". Its Relation to Divine Justice

Abstract

We examine the concept of “nature” and its relationship with Justice, in commemoration of Dr. Laura Corso de Estrada, who passed away in 2024. Some of the concepts she has developed show us a possible path to approach Hildegard of Bingen’s thought, in her work Scito vias Domini. Starting with a brief historical reflection on the term “justice” we will point out how Hildegard relates the differences that human nature operates from individual to individual. In her own experience she tries to elucidate why our human nature induces us to act both justly and unjustly, deliberately or thoughtlessly, unaware of the consequences of our actions. She explores the understanding which, together with the will, generates a drive, the “spirit”, which enables one to act and to distinguish good from evil. And so we return to Laura Corso’s argument about the “finalism of human nature in the unfolding of the perfect life”. This is an attempt to unite contemplative and practical life.