Abstract:

This is an exegesis of the texts of saint Thomas Aquinas on the objectively challenging issue of the relations between ecclesiastical power and temporal power in po- litical society, above all in Christian society.
The article aims to analyse Aquinas’ thought within the history of Catholic doctrine on the subject, therefore allusions will be made to medieval hierocratic positions and to a few positions and texts linked to the thesis of potestas indirecta and to contemporary times.

Key words:

Aquinas, Christendom, Political Power, Ecclesiastical Power.