Philosophical French

[Dan Simmons]

I'm working on a translation of an article by Etienne Gilson and I've come across a few difficulties. I was wondering if anyone could lend me some insights.

Gilson makes continued reference to: "la premiere causé de Dieu."

I'm not sure what to do with "causé." It seems to be an awkward use of the past tense of "cause;" could I translate it as "effect"?

Here's some context:

"Soit la première Intelligence pure, que nous considérons comme la premier causé de Dieu. En tant qu'elle dérive du premier Être, elle est necessaire ; mais, prisen soi-même, elle n'est que possible, puisque rien ne contraignait le Premier à la causer."

Thanks!

[Lanfeust]

I think it's only a mistake. I would put instead : "la première cause de Dieu". As well, "prisen soi-même" doesn't mean anything. Maybe the author wanted to say : "prise en soi-même". Maybe someone will give you more information.