Introduction by Ruth Meyer

Albertus says: "It seems that in the species of water baptism can occur; for water is not capable of baptism according to the fact that it is something common, but according to its essence, what it holds in its nature, because according to this it has properties signifying the effect of baptism; moreover according to its essence, what it holds in its nature, is in its species, therefore according to its species it is capable of baptism; but since playfulness and wine are forms of water according to Aristotle; it seems that in these one can become baptized.

 

"Moreover: just as Aristotle says in his book On Generation, species of simple elements remain in a mixture, therefore it seems that in water, after it is in a mixed body, baptism can occur.

 "Also: because in beer and in waters changed through skill; for skill does not give substantial form, because form is an accident of skill therefore water is not changed from its form, therefore in it baptism can occur."

Original Latin