Miracles

The question of miracles lies at the intersection of philosophy, theology, and science. Miracles are central to many religious traditions — Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Hinduism all contain accounts of miraculous events. But what exactly is a miracle? Can miracles occur? Should we ever believe reports of miracles? This lesson examines the major definitions, Hume's influential attack on miracles, the philosophical responses, and the evaluation of whether miracles can function as evidence for God's existence.

---

Definitions of Miracles

Different philosophers and theologians have defined miracles in significantly different ways, and the definition adopted shapes the entire debate.

Aquinas' Definition

St Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274) defined a miracle as an event brought about by God that exceeds the powers of nature. For Aquinas, a miracle is:

• Performed by God (the primary cause)
• Beyond the power of any natural agent (secondary causes)
• An event that nature cannot produce by its own powers