human
Not synonymous, sir, for that would imply that God is only first cause, no more. We must assume he hath many more attributes.
gpt
We may assume it. We can hardly know it, Mr. Kenny suggested, and reached across the table to refresh the tutor's Madeira and splash a bit more in Reuben's glass.
human
But what is knowledge?
gpt
We must recognize divers degrees of knowledge. There is mere factual knowledge: I know I hold this glass in my hand; if I drop it the wine will stain the cloth. Knowledge of the attributes, eternal presence of God is a higher knowledge.
human
In what manner higher, Mr. Hibbs? More difficult? More important? More full of earthly significance?--if so, to whom?
gpt
I mean such knowledge cometh to the mind and soul direct, not by way of mere tangible evidence.
human
And yet, Mr. Hibbs--this is simply mine own ignorance finding a voice--I don't understand why knowledge becomes higher because tangible evidence is lacking, nor indeed why tangible evidence should be despised. But may we return to the matter of definition? John Kenny glanced at Reuben while the tutor's head was bowed for the inspection of another walnut; Reuben decided it was not merely possible, it was a fact: Uncle John's eyelid _had_ flickered down and up.
gpt
What _is_ knowledge?
human
Knowledge is the perception of truth.
gpt
My eyes are not what they were, he said,