227. It is likewise a matter of angelic wisdom that from this similitude
between generals and particulars, that is, between things greatest and
least in respect to these degrees, comes the perfection of the created
universe; for thereby one thing regards another as its like, with which
it can be conjoined for every use, and can present every end in effect.

228. But these things may seem paradoxical, because they are not explained
by application to visible things; yet things abstract, being universals,
are often better comprehended than things applied, for these are of
perpetual variety, and variety obscures.

229. Some contend that there can be a substance so simple as not to be
a form from lesser forms, and out of that substance, through a process
of massing, substantiated or composite things arise, and finally
substances called material. But there can be no such absolutely simple
substances. For what is substance without form? It is that of which
nothing can be predicated; and out of mere being of which nothing can
be predicated, no process of massing can make anything. That there are
things innumerable in the first created substance of all things, which
are things most minute and simple, will be seen in what follows, where
forms are treated of.

230. IN THE LORD THE THREE DEGREES OF HEIGHT ARE INFINITE AND UNCREATE,
BUT IN MAN THE THREE DEGREES ARE FINITE AND CREATED.

In the Lord the three degrees of height are infinite and uncreate,
because the Lord is Love itself and Wisdom itself (as has been already
shown); and because the Lord is Love itself and Wisdom itself, He is
also Use itself. For love has use for its end, and brings forth use by