By eternity, I mean existence itself, in so far as it is conceived necessarily to follow solely from the definition of that which is eternal.
Explanation--Existence of this kind is conceived as an eternal truth, like the essence of a thing, and, therefore, cannot be explained by means of continuance or time, though continuance may be conceived without a beginning or end.
AXIOMS.
I.

Everything which exists, exists either in itself or in something else.
II.

That which cannot be conceived through anything else must be conceived through itself.
III.

From a given definite cause an effect necessarily follows; and, on the other hand, if no definite cause be granted, it is impossible that an effect can follow.
IV.

The knowledge of an effect depends on and involves the knowledge of a cause.
V.