IN SEARCH OF BEATITUDE: the teleological aspect and human conduct in Saint Augustine

Undoubtedly, the pursuit of happiness in life, as well as the necessary path to attain it, has remained a central theme in the philosophical reflections of Saint Augustine. This aspect also formsa fundamental research problem for the current study. The objective, therefore, is to explore Augustinian ethics, particularly focusing on the concept of the 'ordo amoris' or the order of love, through an analysis of relevant literature. The research methodology employed an exploratory approach, which included a bibliographical survey and a description of the characteristics of beatitude in Saint Augustine. The pursuit of happiness, as recognized, has always captivated human minds, as it is an inherent aspect of human essence. However, Augustine's conception transcends the pursuit of ephemeral worldly goods, directing attention towards the Supreme Good, God—One and Triune. Rejecting the notion that philosophy alone grants knowledge, Saint Augustine grounds happiness in the ultimate source, the Creator of all things and the very essence of beatitude itself. Considering the foregoing statements, this research is justified as it seeks to comprehend the order of love and provide a framework for understanding thepath to attaining supreme happiness. All too often, human beings mistakenly seek happiness in material, fleeting, and earthly possessions, resulting in missteps. In Saint Augustine's perspective, human pride contributes to this misguided pursuit and obstructs the quest for true happiness, leading to a form of individual 'blindness.' It is concluded that by transcending these obstacles, one can attain genuine contemplation of divinity and the happiness of the human soul.