The Literal Meaning of Genesis
BOOK TEN 127
CHAPTER 23
It is difficult to decide on the correct explanation of the origin of the soul. The practice of infant baptism.
39. After pursuing this investigation as thoroughly as time has allowed, I should judge the weight of reason and of scriptural texts to be equal or nearly equal on both sides, were it not for the fact that the practice of infant baptism gives greater weight to the opinion of those who hold that souls are generated by parents. What can be said of these arguments is not yet clear to me. If at a later date God gives me some solution and the opportunity to write something for the benefit of those interested, I shall not be reluctant to do so.
Now, however, I want to state in advance that the argument from the baptism of infants is not to be so despised that we should neglect to refute it if the truth is against it. We have two alternatives. On the one hand, we can say that no investigation must be made into this matter, so that we shall be satisfied to know by our faith where we are destined to go if we live a holy life, although we may not know where we have come from. On the other hand, if the rational soul is not arrogant in its search for this knowledge about itself, let it put aside obstinate debate and give itself to diligent enquiry, humble seeking, and perseverance in knocking at the door.?? Thus, if He knows that this is good for us who certainly knows better than we what is for our good, let Him grant this also, for He gives good gifts to His children.%
But the custom of our mother the Church in the matter of infant baptism is by no means to be scorned, nor to be considered at all superfluous, nor to be believed except on the ground that it is a tradition from the apostles.9° The age of infancy, indeed, in spite of its smallness, bears witness of great weight, for it was the first to have merited to shed its blood for Christ.%°