The Splendor of Truth

Veritatis Splendor. An encyclical by Pope John Paul II promulgated on August 6, 1993. This encyclical has been called one of the most comprehensive teachings of moral theology in the Catholic tradition. It responds to questions pertaining to moral theology that have been raised in the latter half of the 20th century, in particular questions regarding man's ability to discern good, the existence of evil, the role of human freedom and human conscience, mortal sin, and the authority of the magisterium of the Catholic Church in offering guidance in the area of morality. Pope John Paul II answers these, insisting that moral truth is knowable, that the choice of good or evil has a profound effect on one's relationship with God, and that there is no true contradiction between freedom and following the good. Key themes include: Contrary to the philosophy of moral relativism, the moral law is universal across people in varying cultures, and is rooted in the human condition. Therefore, there are