Metaphysics: From the writings of Frithjof Schuon

[Thomas]

Metaphysics is the science of the Absolute and of the true nature of things.
(Logic and Transcendence, Rationalism, Real and Apparent")

In reality, the transcendent character of metaphysics makes it independent of any purely human mode of thought. In order to define clearly the difference between the two modes in question, it may be said that philosophy proceeds from reason (which is a purely individual faculty), whereas metaphysics proceeds exclusively from the Intellect.
(The Transcendent Unity of Religions, Preface)

 

[TheLightWithin]

In order to define clearly the difference between the two modes in question, it may be said that philosophy proceeds from reason (which is a purely individual faculty), whereas metaphysics proceeds exclusively from the Intellect.

I don't understand the distinction.
If reason were defined as practical and the intellect were about abstractions or the use of imagination, maaaaybe I would see what they meant.
However, this doesn't make sense as philosophy is plenty abstract.
Also, isn't metaphysics usually thought of as a branch of philosophy?