1. The essence of a thing considered as an immanent principle of operative acts. In this sense, Aristotle defines nature as “the principle of motion and rest in that to which it belongs primarily and in itself and not accidentally” (Physics, II, 1). 2. The totality of things whose essence or existence does not depend on human intervention. 3. The totality of created things. 4. That which belongs to a thing according to its created essence as distinct from what God could or does give to it over and above its created essence, e.g., by grace.