TOB Session 2b

1. The “Heart” – accused or called?  44-48

   1. Condemnation of the Body?

44 GOSPEL VALUES AND DUTIES OF THE HUMAN HEART

Christ’s Sermon on the Mount emphasizes the importance of the human heart in ethical and theological dimensions, especially regarding lust and adultery. Christ’s words invite individuals to question their hearts' inclination toward good or evil. This audience explores how the values Christ presents form a duty for believers' hearts, wills, and actions, highlighting the interplay between ethos and praxis in moral behavior. Throughout history, humanity’s varied responses to these teachings reflect the dynamic nature of moral sensitivity. Christ’s concise statements in Matthew 5:27-28 contrast with the complex interpretations in secular literature and emphasize a necessary, transparent ethos. Misinterpretations, like those from Manichaeism, distort Christ’s intent, focusing wrongly on condemning the body rather than affirming the dignity of masculinity and femininity. Ultimately, Christ's teachings aim to mature and deepen the understanding of human sexuality within the context of personal dignity and ethical living.

What is meant by Manichaean?

• Pertaining to the dualistic worldview of Manichaeism, which divides the world into opposing forces of good and evil, typically in favor of the spiritual and in departure from the material, considering created things evil. 

45 REALIZATION OF THE VALUE OF THE BODY ACCORDING TO THE PLAN OF THE CREATOR

Romans 8:23

Christ's teaching in the Sermon on the Mount emphasizes the importance of correctly interpreting His words about adultery and lust, contrasting them with the Manichean doctrine. The Manichean view, which condemns the body as the source of evil, is fundamentally opposed to Christ’s affirmation of the body’s dignity. Instead, Christ's words call for a self-critical examination of the heart, addressing the man of lust and affirming the body’s ontological subjectivity and dignity. The conjugal union, defended by Christ, exemplifies the body’s role as a sacramental sign. Christian ethos must transform human consciousness and attitudes towards the body and sexuality, recognizing their value in the Creator’s plan. This transformation involves overcoming the evil of lust while upholding the intrinsic value and dignity of the human body and sex. The Sermon on the Mount thus highlights the need to master lust, affirming the personal dignity of the body and sexuality.

How does Christ's teaching in the Sermon on the Mount transform our understanding of the value and dignity of the human body and sexuality?

• Christ’s teaching emphasizes that the body and sexuality are valuable and dignified aspects of human existence, contrary to the Manichean condemnation. It calls for a transformation of human consciousness to appreciate these values, affirming the body’s role in the Creator’s plan. The challenge is to overcome lust while recognizing and upholding the body’s intrinsic dignity and value.

“Christian ethos is characterized by a transformation of the human person’s conscience and attitudes…such as to express and realize the value of the body and sex according to the Creator’s original plan” (TOB 45:3).

1. 2. The "Heart" under suspicion?

46 POWER OF REDEEMING COMPLETES POWER OF CREATING

Christ's words in the Sermon on the Mount call for overcoming lust while affirming the dignity of the body and sexuality. This appeal counters both Manichaean views and modern interpretations by Freud, Marx, and Nietzsche, which place humanity in a state of continual suspicion. Nietzsche associates the pride of life, Marx the lust of the eyes, and Freud the lust of the flesh, with the human heart. However, the Bible doesn't make lust the core of anthropology and ethics but recognizes it as an aspect to understand human actions. Christ's words are an appeal to the heart, urging mastery over lust and a rediscovery of the body’s nuptial meaning. This appeal resonates with the original dignity of mutual relations, emphasizing love and dignity. It is a call to live out the supreme value of love, rooted in the truth of one’s humanity and body, surpassing inherited sinfulness and lust.

48 SPONTANEITY: THE MATURE RESULT OF CONSCIENCE

Christ’s teaching on lust and adultery in the Sermon on the Mount invites an exploration of the relationship between ethics and eroticism. This teaching urges a continual rediscovery of the nuptial meaning and true dignity of the body, highlighting the ethical nature of human attraction. Spontaneity in this context emerges from the discernment of one's heart, with Christ’s words encouraging a mature awareness and control over internal impulses. Embracing this ethos leads to a deeper, more authentic spontaneity in relations between men and women. This mature spontaneity harmonizes the body and spirit, elevating human desire beyond mere lust. Mastery over instincts results in recognizing the spiritual beauty of the human body, thus achieving a form of spontaneity unknown to the carnal man. Christ’s call to purity of heart thus paves the way for a liberated and noble human spontaneity.

How does the discernment of internal impulses contribute to achieving a mature spontaneity in human relationships according to Christ’s teaching?

• Discernment helps one to distinguish between noble desires and mere lust, enabling control over base instincts. This control fosters a deeper appreciation of the spiritual and ethical dimensions of human attraction. Thus, true spontaneity is achieved, which liberates and elevates human relationships.

1. 3. Eros and ethos

47 EROS AND ETHOS MEET AND BEAR FRUIT IN THE HUMAN HEART

Christ's words in the Sermon on the Mount, particularly regarding lust and adultery, are primarily an appeal to the human heart rather than a mere accusation. This appeal is crucial for the Gospel's ethical ethos and aligns with contemporary human conscience. The term "eros," absent in biblical language but significant in philosophy and theology, encompasses both somatic and philosophical meanings. According to Plato, eros is an inner force driving humans toward goodness, truth, and beauty, contrasted with its common sensual interpretation. However, eros in biblical context refers to the mutual attraction between man and woman, calling for a unity that includes both physical and spiritual communion. Christ’s teaching on lust is not merely a prohibition but an appeal to transform and elevate human desire. In this transformation, eros and ethos are not opposed but are intended to integrate and bear fruit in the human heart.

How does understanding Christ’s appeal in the Sermon on the Mount as a call to elevate human desires change the way we view the relationship between eros and ethos?

• Viewing Christ’s words as an appeal rather than a prohibition encourages seeing eros as a force for good when integrated with ethos. It emphasizes transforming and elevating human desires to align with truth, goodness, and beauty. This perspective fosters a deeper appreciation for the ethical and spiritual dimensions of human relationships.

2. The ethos of the Redemption of the Body 49-52

49 CHRIST CALLS US TO REDISCOVER THE LIVING FORMS OF THE NEW MAN

Matthew 22:30; Mark 12:25; Luke 20:35-36

Christ’s words in the Sermon on the Mount carry profound ethical and anthropological meaning, focusing on the heart and interior man. He introduced a new ethos, distinct from the Old Testament and the state of historical man marked by sin, which we term the "ethos of redemption." St. Paul’s teachings in Romans illustrate this ethos, emphasizing the desire for the redemption of the body. This perspective of redemption validates Christ’s reference to the beginning, reinforcing the connection between creation and redemption. Christ did not ask for a return to original innocence but called for rediscovering the new man’s living forms through temperance and self-mastery. This self-mastery leads to a deeper appreciation of the nuptial meaning of the body and the freedom of the gift. Ultimately, purity of heart is not just a call but an essential requirement of love, rooted in the anthropological realism of revelation and deeply connected to human dignity.

What is Redemption?

• The act of saving or delivering humanity from sin and its consequences, accomplished through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ

50 PURITY OF HEART

Matthew 5:8; 15:2, 11, 18-20; Mark 7:20-23; Leviticus 15:16-24; 18:1; 12:1-5; 1 John 2:16-17; Galatians 5:16-17; Romans 8:5; Isaiah 1:10-20; Jeremiah 4:14; 24:7; Ezekiel 36:25; Psalm 24:3-5; 51:10, 7, 17

In this audience, John Paul II delves into the concept of purity as essential to understanding Christ’s teachings in the Sermon on the Mount. Christ redefined the commandment against adultery by focusing on the inner man, stating that looking at a woman lustfully is akin to committing adultery in the heart, which opposes purity. This notion of purity is linked to the beatitude "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." Christ emphasized that moral impurity originates from the heart, contrasting this with the Pharisees' emphasis on ritual purity through ablutions. He explained that what defiles a person comes from within, not from external sources, thus underscoring the internal source of moral purity. Ritual purity in the Old Testament had both hygienic and religious dimensions but was not sufficient for moral purity. Ultimately, Christ clarified that true purity is of the heart and encompasses all moral actions.

How does Christ's emphasis on the internal source of moral purity challenge the Old Testament focus on ritual ablutions and external cleanliness?

• Christ's teaching shifts the focus from external rituals to the condition of the heart, highlighting that true purity is moral and internal rather than merely behavioral and external. This challenges believers to seek inner transformation and moral integrity, rather than relying solely on ritualistic practices for purification.

51 JUSTIFICATION IN CHRIST 

Galatians 5:17; Romans 7:19; Romans 8:5-10; Romans 8:11

In this audience, Pope John Paul II explores the dichotomy between the desires of the flesh and the desires of the Spirit as described by St. Paul in Galatians 5:17. He delves into the inherent tension within humanity, stemming from original sin, where the flesh opposes the spirit, leading to a life governed by worldly values rather than spiritual ones. Through Paul's teachings, he elucidates how life according to the flesh is marked by indulgence in worldly pleasures, contrasting with life according to the Spirit, which seeks higher virtues and adherence to God's will. John Paul II emphasizes the need for individuals to align themselves with the Spirit to overcome the dominance of the flesh and manifest the fruits of the Spirit in their actions and behaviors.

How does Paul's concept of life according to the Spirit challenge our understanding of worldly desires and spiritual aspirations?

• Pope John Paul II highlights the ongoing struggle within individuals to resist worldly temptations and embrace spiritual virtues. By emphasizing the importance of aligning with the Spirit, he offers insight into how individuals can overcome sinful inclinations and lead a life in accordance with God's will. This understanding enhances our comprehension of the complexities of human nature and provides guidance for navigating moral dilemmas.

52 OPPOSITION BETWEEN THE FLESH AND THE SPIRIT

Matthew 5:20; Matthew 15:2-20; Romans 8:12-13, 23; Galatians 5:1, 6, 13-14, 17, 19-21; Ephesians 5:5

In Galatians 5:17, the statement "The desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh" unveils profound insights into the struggle between earthly desires and spiritual aspirations, particularly pertinent in discussions regarding purity of heart. This dichotomy between flesh and Spirit, epitomizing Pauline theology on justification, reflects the faith in Christ's redemptive work and its transformative impact on humanity. Paul refers to the "redemption of the body," signifying not only individual salvation but also the cosmic restoration brought forth by Christ's sacrifice. Crucially, this redemption operates within the personal unity of spirit and body, catalyzing a profound ethical and moral renewal in individuals, aligning their behavior with the divine will as exemplified in the Sermon on the Mount.

How does Paul's articulation of the opposition between the desires of the flesh and the Spirit reshape our understanding of justification and the transformative power of Christ's redemption?

• Paul's teachings highlight the profound interplay between human desires and spiritual realities, underscoring the centrality of faith in Christ's redemptive work for moral renewal. By elucidating the broader implications of redemption beyond individual salvation, Paul invites believers to embrace a holistic understanding of justification that transcends mere adherence to legalistic norms. This liberation from a carnal understanding of justification underscores the transformative freedom bestowed by Christ, enabling believers to live in accordance with the Spirit rather than the dictates of the flesh.

3. Purity as “life according to the Spirit 53-57

53 LIFE IN THE SPIRIT BASED ON TRUE FREEDOM

Matthew 5:20; Matthew 15:2-20; Romans 8:12-13, 23; Galatians 5:1, 6, 13-14, 19-21; Ephesians 5:5; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, 7-8; 1 Peter 3:7

In this audience, St. Paul's emphasis on freedom's ethical subordination to love, as outlined in Galatians, reveals the anthropological roots of the Gospel ethos. He underscores the importance of fulfilling the law through the commandment of charity, connecting freedom intimately with love. Paul cautions against misusing freedom, warning that such misuse opposes the liberation of the human spirit wrought by Christ. True freedom, as manifested by Christ, finds its fullness in charity and serves as a source of life according to the Spirit. Paul's doctrine on purity, echoing the Sermon on the Mount, expands the understanding of Christian purity within the context of fulfilling the law through charity. While Paul indirectly mentions purity in his discussion of self-control, the explicit exhortations in 1 Thessalonians emphasize purity's centrality to holiness.

How does Paul's concept of freedom being subordinated to love challenge our understanding of liberty in contemporary society?

• Paul's teachings urge us to view freedom not as license but as an opportunity for selfless service. By aligning freedom with love, he highlights the ethical responsibility inherent in true liberty. Understanding freedom in this way invites a deeper reflection on how our choices impact others and whether they reflect genuine love and concern for our neighbors.

54 ST. PAUL'S TEACHING ON THE SANCTITY AND RESPECT OF THE HUMAN BODY

1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, 7-8; Galatians 5:22; 1 Corinthians 12:18, 22-25

In this audience, St. Paul's teachings from the First Letter to the Thessalonians regarding sanctification and abstaining from unchastity are revisited for their significance in the discussion at hand. Paul emphasizes the virtue of purity as the capacity to control one's body in holiness and honor, rooted in the will and subordination of desires. He underscores the mastery over lust as intrinsic to purity, alongside abstention from unchastity. Paul's imagery of purity as both capacity and manifestation of life according to the Spirit is deemed complete and profound. Furthermore, the audience explores Paul's analogy of the Church as the Body of Christ, illustrating the worthiness of the human body and the importance of honoring it. This connection between Paul's teachings on purity and his theology of the body constitutes a central theme in his writings.

How does St. Paul's concept of purity, as the control of one's body in holiness and honor, deepen our understanding of the sanctity of the human body in relation to spiritual life?

• St. Paul's teachings highlight the virtue of purity as not merely abstention from unchastity but also the mastery over lust and the control of one's body in holiness. This concept underscores the profound connection between the spiritual life and the treatment of the human body with honor and respect.

55 ST. PAUL'S DESCRIPTION OF THE BODY AND TEACHING ON PURITY

Genesis 1:31; Genesis 2:25; 1 Corinthians 12:18, 22-25; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, 7-8

St. Paul's discussion on the human body, as presented in First Corinthians, elucidates its significance within the context of the Church as the Body of Christ. He emphasizes the divine arrangement of the body's organs, attributing honor even to its seemingly weaker parts. This portrayal aligns with the reality of the human body as intertwined with the dignity and personhood of individuals. While not a scientific analysis, Paul's depiction intertwines realism with an evaluative thread, emphasizing the body's significance beyond its physicality. The narrative underscores the respect owed to the body, rooted in creation and redemption, and contrasts with both contempt and idolization of the body. Moreover, Paul's description hints at the echo of innocence lost through original sin, shaping perceptions of shame and honor regarding the body. This respect and control over the body are deemed essential for purity, resonating with Paul's exhortation in First Thessalonians. Ultimately, Paul's portrayal of the body reflects an interior harmony ordained by the Creator, fostering mutual care and respect among its members.

How does St. Paul's description of the human body in First Corinthians deepen our understanding of the connection between physicality, dignity, and purity in Christian teachings?

• St. Paul's depiction of the human body highlights its intrinsic connection to human dignity and personhood, emphasizing the need for respect and control over one's body. This understanding, rooted in both creation and redemption, offers insights into the Christian concept of purity as more than mere abstention but also as honoring the body's sacredness. Paul's narrative echoes themes of shame and innocence lost through sin, shaping perceptions of honor and respect for the body. Moreover, his emphasis on mutual care and respect among believers underscores the communal aspect of purity and bodily respect within Christian teachings.

56 THE VIRTUE OF PURITY IS THE EXPRESSION AND FRUIT OF LIFE ACCORDING TO THE SPIRIT

1 Corinthians 4:3-5, 6:18-20, 13-17

In recent sessions, we delved into Paul's teachings on purity, exploring passages from Thessalonians and Corinthians. Purity, Paul illustrates, encompasses both temperance and respect for the human body. This respect, emphasizing modesty, becomes a pathway to detachment from the lust of the flesh. Abstaining from unchastity signifies honoring one's body and its inherent dignity, aligning with the Spirit's guidance. Paul emphasizes that the body, indwelled by the Holy Spirit, transcends individual ownership, demanding reverence in conduct. Redemption, including that of the body, brings forth new obligations. Paul passionately underscores this by declaring believers were "bought with a price," emphasizing sanctity over indulgence. This profound truth, rooted in the Incarnation, elevates the body's holiness, shaping ethical commitments. Purity, according to Paul, is integral to life in the Spirit, resonating with the mystery of Christ's redemption and manifesting as a virtuous capacity grounded in faith.

How does Paul's concept of purity as a virtue rooted in reverence for the body challenge contemporary notions of bodily autonomy and self-expression?

• Paul's teachings invite us to reconsider the relationship between our bodies, our spiritual lives, and our ethical responsibilities, suggesting that purity is not merely about personal restraint but a profound recognition of the divine dignity inherent in our embodied existence.

57 THE PAULINE DOCTRINE OF PURITY AS LIFE ACCORDING TO THE SPIRIT

1 Corinthians 6:15, 19-20; 1 Thessalonians 4:4; Titus 1:15

In our contemplation of purity through the lens of St. Paul's teachings, we encounter a profound understanding of the human body as a sacred dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. Paul's words in Corinthians underscore the divine ownership of the body, emphasizing its role as a vessel sanctified by Christ's redemption. This divine indwelling imparts a moral duty to uphold purity, as articulated in Paul's exhortation to "control his own body in holiness and honor." Yet, Paul goes beyond mere moral obligation, highlighting the charismatic dimension of purity infused by the Holy Spirit. This infusion of piety, among the gifts of the Spirit, sensitizes individuals to the inherent dignity of the body, illuminating its nuptial significance and its inseparable connection to love. Purity, thus, transcends mere abstinence, leading to a deeper experience of divine love and glorification of God through the body's integrity.

How does the infusion of piety, as a gift of the Holy Spirit, enhance our understanding of purity as more than abstention, but as a profound expression of divine love and reverence for the body's dignity?

• The incorporation of piety into the discourse on purity offers a nuanced perspective, emphasizing not just moral duty but also a deeper sensitivity to the sacredness of the body. This understanding challenges us to view purity not as mere restraint but as a holistic embrace of divine love and respect for ourselves and others. By recognizing the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit, infused with the gift of piety, we can strive for a purity that glorifies God and manifests the beauty of love in all aspects of life.

"Purity as the virtue is the capacity of controlling one's body in holiness and honor... and from it springs that extraordinary beauty which permeates every sphere of men's common life and makes it possible to express in it simplicity and depth, cordiality and the unrepeatable authenticity of personal trust."

4. The Gospel of the Purity of Heart – yesterday and today 58-59

58 POSITIVE FUNCTION OF PURITY OF HEART

Matthew 5:27-28; 19:3-6; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4; 1 Corinthians 6:19

In this audience, the focus returns to Christ's teachings from the Sermon on the Mount, particularly his profound words on adultery and lust. Jesus challenges his listeners to understand the deeper implications of moral conduct, urging them to transcend mere adherence to the law to address the purity of the heart. This emphasis on purity stems from an anthropological truth rooted in man's original innocence, which contrasts with the reality of hereditary sinfulness. Christ's message resonates with all humanity, offering a pathway to purity despite the burden of sin. Purity of heart, as elucidated by Christ, extends beyond abstention to encompass a profound discovery of human dignity and the nuptial meaning of the body. It is a victory over lust, facilitated by the gift of the Holy Spirit, particularly the virtue of piety, which restores simplicity, joy, and authentic interpersonal relations. Christ's words thus inspire a transformation of the human heart, leading to genuine joy and the ability to give of oneself to others.

How does Christ's teaching on purity of heart challenge our understanding of moral conduct, and how can we experience joy in mastering ourselves for the good of others?

• Christ's call to purity of heart goes beyond mere adherence to external laws, inviting us to delve into the depths of our intentions and desires. By embracing this challenge, we not only find joy in mastering ourselves but also become genuine gifts for others, fostering authentic relationships based on mutual respect and dignity. This journey toward purity is aided by the Holy Spirit, particularly through the virtue of piety, which restores simplicity and joy to our interactions. Thus, Christ's words serve as a beacon of hope, guiding us toward a life of fulfillment and self-giving love.

What is divorce?

• Civil divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage contract, terminating marital rights and obligations according to civil law. In Catholic doctrine, civil divorce doesn't dissolve a sacramental marriage between baptized individuals, as taught by Christ. The Church holds that a ratified and consummated marriage is indissoluble except by death, and annulment declares a marriage invalid from its inception. Civil divorce followed by remarriage without annulment is adultery, though divorce itself doesn't impact one's standing in the Church. Separation of spouses, termed divorce imperfectum, is tolerated by the Church without severing the marital bond, particularly in cases of adultery or abandonment. Read more

59 PRONOUNCEMENTS OF MAGISTERIUM APPLY CHRIST'S WORDS TODAY

Christ's teachings from the Sermon on the Mount, particularly regarding purity of heart, are timeless and relevant for all humanity. These teachings serve as a pedagogical guide, outlining the dignity of the human person and the responsibilities inherent in masculinity and femininity. In the modern context, where scientific advancements often focus solely on the biological aspects of the body, there is a need for a holistic understanding of human anthropology, rooted in the theology of the body. This theology emphasizes the spiritual significance of the body and its role in interpersonal communion. The pronouncements of the Church, particularly regarding marriage and family, echo Christ's teachings and aim to apply them to contemporary situations. Understanding and interpreting these pronouncements require a deep appreciation of the theology of the body. Furthermore, the theology of the body serves as the foundation for Christian pedagogy, guiding individuals towards living in accordance with the moral order and the dignity of the person.

How does the theology of the body provide a framework for understanding the pronouncements of the Church on marriage and family, and why is it essential for applying Christ's teachings to modern contexts?

• The theology of the body offers a comprehensive perspective on human anthropology, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the body and its role in interpersonal relationships. By grounding ourselves in this theology, we can better grasp the moral implications of Church pronouncements regarding marriage and family life. Additionally, understanding the theology of the body enables us to apply Christ's timeless teachings to contemporary situations, fostering a deeper appreciation for the dignity of the human person and the sacredness of marital love.

5. Appendix: the ethos of the body in art and media 60-63

60 THE HUMAN BODY, SUBJECT OF WORKS OF ART

1 Thessalonians 4:4

In this audience, John Paul II delves into the theological hermeneutics concerning the human body's subjective consciousness and experiences, emphasizing the inseparability of objective reality and personal subjectivity in biblical texts. He asserts that the problems surrounding the ethos of the body are deeply intertwined with its ontological identity and the quality of subjective experiences, particularly in interpersonal relationships. Through works of art, such as those in culture and especially in the realm of aesthetics, individuals encounter the reality and experiences of the body, extending beyond mere aesthetic appreciation to encompass moral dimensions. The audience underscores the necessity of fostering a climate favorable to purity in various forms of artistic expression, including traditional art forms and modern audiovisual techniques, to align with the ethos of the body. Moreover, John Paul II distinguishes between the human body as a subject and object of art, highlighting the ethical implications of artistic reproduction and mass dissemination of images, prompting reflection on the implications of these distinctions in contemporary culture. These preliminary reflections pave the way for deeper exploration into the relationship between artistic culture and Christ's teachings, particularly regarding the creation of an environment conducive to chastity, as outlined in Humanae Vitae.

How does John Paul II's emphasis on the intertwining of subjective consciousness and objective reality in theological interpretations of the human body impact our understanding of artistic expressions and morality?

• John Paul II's insights prompt a critical examination of how artistic representations influence perceptions of human dignity and interpersonal relationships. This challenges both artists and audiences to uphold values of purity, honor, and respect in artistic expression and engagement. Ultimately, it calls for a more conscientious and reflective approach to artistic culture and its ethical implications.

61 REFLECTIONS ON THE ETHOS OF THE HUMAN BODY IN WORKS OF ARTISTIC CULTURE

Genesis 2:25; 3; 1 John 2:16

In this audience, John Paul II reflects on the ethical implications of the portrayal of the human body in artistic culture, drawing from biblical narratives on shame and sensitivity. He emphasizes the body's inherent dignity as a gift exchanged between persons, noting how its objectification in art can detach it from this original meaning. Despite the historical presence of shame as a safeguard of personal sensitivity, contemporary challenges arise in the realm of mass culture and media representation, particularly concerning the violation of bodily privacy and the erosion of the ethos of mutual donation. These reflections underscore the vital importance of upholding the dignity of the human body in fostering a culture conducive to chastity and moral integrity.

How does John Paul II's analysis of shame and sensitivity in relation to the portrayal of the human body in artistic culture contribute to our understanding of contemporary ethical challenges?

• John Paul II's insights highlight the enduring significance of shame as a protector of personal sensitivity in the face of artistic objectification. His examination underscores the ethical responsibility of artists and media producers in respecting the dignity of the human body and promoting a culture of chastity and mutual respect.

63 ETHICAL RESPONSIBILITIES IN ART

In this audience, John Paul II reflects on Christ's teachings from the Sermon on the Mount regarding adultery and extends their implications to the realm of human culture and artistic expression. He delves into the ethical responsibilities inherent in depicting the human body in works of art, particularly in the context of modern mass media. While acknowledging the long-standing tradition of the human body as a subject in art and literature, he emphasizes the need for artists to approach this subject with a profound understanding of its dignity and significance. Furthermore, he discusses the correlation between the ethos of the image and the ethos of seeing, highlighting the reciprocal relationship between artistic creation and viewer perception. John Paul II concludes by stressing the importance of fostering an atmosphere conducive to education in chastity, where both creators and viewers uphold the dignity of the human body and its portrayal in art.

How does John Paul II's discussion on the relationship between the ethos of the image and the ethos of seeing enhance our understanding of the ethical responsibilities of both artists and viewers in the realm of artistic expression?

• John Paul II's insights underscore the interconnectedness between artistic creation and viewer perception, emphasizing the ethical obligations of both parties. By exploring the reciprocity between the ethos of the image and the ethos of seeing, he elucidates how the portrayal and reception of art contribute to the formation of societal values and perceptions of human dignity. This highlights the importance of fostering an environment conducive to education in chastity, where both artists and viewers uphold the dignity of the human body and its representation in art. Ultimately, his reflections call for a deeper appreciation of the profound impact of artistic expression on the moral and cultural landscape.

What is Objectivity?:

• The quality of being based on verifiable facts and reality, independent of personal biases or interpretations.

“Christian ethos is characterized by a transformation of the human person’s conscience and attitudes…such as to express and realize the value of the body and sex according to the Creator’s original plan” (TOB 45:3).