To Florus 1.78
For, as the author says, “Every discussion of a subject undertaken rationally ought to begin with a definition, so that what is being discussed may be understood” (Cicero, On Duties 1.7). Thus, just as we discussed the definitions of justice and sin above, let us now consider what definition belongs to freedom of choice, so that it may be clear which of us agrees with it and which opposes it. Freedom of choice, by which God gave the human being independence, consists in the capacity to commit sin and to abstain from sin.
Latin
Omnis quippe, ut ait ille, quae ratione suscipitur de aliqua re disputatio, debet a definitione proficisci, ut intellegatur quid sit id de quo disputatur [n184] . Ita ergo et nos, sicut supra de iustitiae et peccati definitione disseruimus, nunc quoque videamus quae libertati arbitrii definitio competat ut planum sit, quis ei nostrum consentiat, quis repugnet. Libertas arbitrii, qua a Deo emancipatus homo est, in admittendi peccati et abstinendi a peccato possibilitate consistit.
About this text
Julian’s six preserved books to Florus, quoted section by section in Augustine’s unfinished reply. Augustine’s refutations are omitted. Latin of Julian’s words is on each section.
Julian’s own books do not survive as a separate manuscript. English follows his words as Augustine quotes them in the Unfinished Work Against Julian. Augustine’s replies are omitted. We do not restore a Julian text independent of Augustine.
Witnesses
- Copy-text Augustine, Unfinished Work Against Julian (Latin · Julian’s words as quoted, Books 1–6)
- Checked print Augustinus.it Latin of the Unfinished Work (Latin · Same work)
- Checked print Migne PL 45 (Latin · Hard cases)
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. Open Latin on each section (or the Latin source witness link) for the source text. This is not a complete critical edition.