How did modern philosophy differ from medieval philosophy in its relationship to religion and theology?

In the Middle Ages, philosophy was deeply integrated with Christian thought, serving as the "handmaiden" of theology. Medieval thinkers, such as St. Thomas Aquinas, utilized philosophical methods to provide a rational understanding of faith and to explore the mysteries of religious doctrine. During this period, religion and philosophy cooperated, with faith inspiring new philosophical inquiries.123

The transition to modern philosophy in the 17th century marked a "divorce" of reason from faith. While early modern philosophers like René Descartes still incorporated religious elements and proofs of God into their work, the focus shifted toward critical probing of human knowledge, presuppositions, and modes of reasoning. Over time, thinkers such as John Locke argued that reason must be the final judge of all beliefs, including those of faith. Consequently, philosophy began to be cultivated for its own sake, increasingly independent of religious dogma, eventually leading to a plurality of perspectives where religion and nonreligion exist in an ongoing, often secularized, dialogue.12435