Wisdom and Holiness in St. Thomas Aquinas for a 21^st Century Reader

Talking about St. Thomas Aquinas is nearly an uphill task. Being a man of unique caliber, the writings of the towering academician, scientist, and philosopher cum theologian are practically difficult to interpret but endowed with immense spiritual, theological, transformative and philosophical richness. However, this paper attempts to present Thomas Aquinas as a philosopher and theologian whose center of life was prayers. The prolific scholar who did so much academic and spiritual work within record time had his inspiration from prayer life. The mystic academic is often considered by some quarters as a spiritual theologian rather than a philosopher. However, a keen interpretation of the iconic Dominican may place him as full-time scholar of all weather and a full-time spiritual giant of all times. He is perennially cherished and promoted by the Catholic Church for his indispensable contributions to Christian philosophy and theology. Therefore, a 21^st century reader of Aquinas still finds a rich scholar in him. This paper thus posits that the works of Aquinas undoubtedly portray an augmenter relationship between prayer life and academic life. It is yet a confirmation of unambiguous and harmonious relationship between faith and reason. This reflection is in line with Pope Francis’ call to deep prayers this year 2024 as a precursor to the Jubilee Year 2025.