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Three names are attributed to the Son: the Son, the
Word, and the Image. We have considered the name
"Son" in connection with the name "Father," hence we
must still consider the names "Word" and "Image."
These three are entirely the same without even a virtual
distinction, but they are distinguished in the mode of
designation and with reference to various extrinsic
connotations. We say the Son with reference to the
Father, Word with reference to the enunciating
intellect, and Image with reference to the principle
which is imitated.
About the Word there are three articles: 1. Whether
"the Word" is used essentially or personally; 2.
Whether "the Word" is a proper name of the Son; 3.
Whether in the name "Word" any reference to creatures
is implied. These questions we will consider carefully in
the light of the prologue of St. John's Gospel.
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