# Of the image of the supreme Trinity, which we find in some sort in human nature even in its present state explained — The City of God

> Chapter companion for The City of God by Augustine of Hippo.

## What happens

Augustine explores the image of the supreme Trinity in human nature, emphasizing that while humans are not equal to God, they bear a closer resemblance to Him than any other creation. He argues that the mind's self-awareness, knowledge, and love of these truths provide a certain foundation against skeptical doubts, as even deception presupposes existence.

## Themes in this chapter

### True Worship and the One God

The chapter discusses the image of the supreme Trinity in human nature, pointing toward the true God.

### Sin, Grace, and Redemption

Augustine notes that the image of God in humans is to be restored to a closer resemblance, implying a need for redemption.

## Character check-ins

### Augustine

Author and narrator, reflecting on the image of the Trinity in human nature.

## Key lines

> For if I am deceived, I am. For he who is not, cannot be deceived; and if I am deceived, by this same token I am.

Even if I am deceived, my existence is certain because non-existence cannot be deceived.

_Augustine uses the fact of deception to prove the certainty of one's own existence._

> And since I am if I am deceived, how am I deceived in believing that I am? for it is certain that I am if I am deceived.

Because my existence is confirmed by the very act of being deceived, I cannot be mistaken about my own being.

_This argument counters Academic skepticism by grounding self-knowledge in the act of deception._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_city_of_god_se/chapters/part-ii-xxvi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_city_of_god_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_city_of_god_se/chapters