96- Are all spirits equal or is there some kind of hierarchy among them?
“They are of different orders, according to their individual degree of self-purification.”
97- Are there a set number of orders or degrees of purification among spirits?
“The number is unlimited because there is no line of demarcation that acts as a barrier between each order; thus, the divisions may be multiplied or decreased at will. However, if we consider their general characteristics, we may reduce them to three principal orders.
“In the first order we may put those who have already reached perfection: the pure spirits. In the second are those who have reached the middle of the scale: their main concern is the desire to do the good. In the third are those who are toward the bottom of the scale: the imperfect spirits. These are characterized by ignorance, the desire for evil28 and all the passions that delay their advancement.”
28 Throughout this work, “evil” must be interpreted relatively. It does not always imply absolute depravity or outright wickedness, as symbolized by Satan, for example. Rather, there are varying degrees. Question 630 explains it quite simply: “Good is everything that is in harmony with God’s law, whereas evil is everything that deviates from it. Thus, doing what is good conforms to God’s law, while doing evil infringes upon it.” – Tr.
98- Do the spirits of the second order only possess the desire to do the good29 or do they also have the ability to do it?
“Their ability depends on their degree of purification: some possess scientific knowledge; others, wisdom and goodness. All of them, however, have trials that they must yet endure.”
29 “The good” as a noun: “Excellence or merit; kindness: to do good. Moral righteousness; virtue: to be a power for good“ (Webster’s, op. cit.). – Tr.
99- Are all spirits of the third order altogether evil?
“No, some do neither good nor evil; others, however, take pleasure in evil and are pleased when they find an opportunity for it. Still others are frivolous or foolish spirits, more mischievous than wicked. These take more pleasure in spite than evil, and they also take pleasure in amusing themselves by vexing people and causing them petty annoyances.”
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