- Separation of Church and State: Dante believed in a distinction between the secular authority of the state and the spiritual authority of the church. He argues that both institutions should work harmoniously within their respective spheres without one interfering in the other's affairs.
- Spiritual Guidance: According to Dante, the primary role of the church should be to provide spiritual guidance, moral teachings, and the salvation of souls. He believed that the church should focus on matters of faith, theology, and the well-being of individuals rather than involving itself directly in political matters.
- Avoidance of Temporal Power: Dante criticized the church's pursuit of temporal power, wealth, and political influence. He believed that when the church becomes entangled in worldly affairs, it strays from its spiritual mission and can lead to corruption and moral decline.
- Influence through Example: Dante proposed that the church should influence society through the exemplary moral behaviour of its members, including clergy and religious leaders. He emphasized the importance of virtuous conduct, adherence to Christian principles, and the practice of charity and compassion.
- Harmony and Cooperation: Dante envisioned a state of harmony and mutual respect between the church and the state, where each entity acknowledges and supports the other within their designated roles. The church would provide spiritual guidance to individuals and institutions, while the state focuses on governing temporal affairs according to just and virtuous principles.
Overall, Dante advocated for a clear separation between church and state, prioritizing the spiritual responsibilities of the church, condemning its pursuit of temporal power, and emphasizing the positive impact of living exemplarily Christian lives.