HKB
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Often appears with: religious persecution and toleration · sin, guilt, and repentance · the nature and attributes of God · scripture and its interpretation · reason and the intellect · justice as a virtue · fate, destiny, and necessity · doubt, skepticism, and certainty · the problem of evil and theodicy · the fear of death · providence and divine governance · prayer and worship
Usually: argument (424) · detachment (307) · crisis of belief (223) · exhortation (208) · narrative (165) · reverence (126) · reflection (112) · skepticism (108) · wonder (100) · the test or trial (98)
“A shameful and accursed, nailed to the cross By his own nation; slain for bringing life:” John Milton, Paradise Lost · observation
“So urgent on the vulgar is the necessity of believing, that the fall of any system of mythology will most probably be succeeded by the introduction of some other mode of superstition.” Edward Gibbon, History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire · observation
“Such is the constitution of civil society, that, whilst a few persons are distinguished by riches, by honors, and by knowledge, the body of the people is condemned to obscurity, ignorance and poverty.” Edward Gibbon, History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire · insight
“The names of Seneca, of the elder and the younger Pliny, of Tacitus, of Plutarch, of Galen, of the slave Epictetus, and of the emperor Marcus Antoninus, adorn the age in which they flourished, and exalt the dignity of human nature.” Edward Gibbon, History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire · observation
“Trust no Moor, for they are all perfidious. I am greatly troubled on this account, for I would not have thee confide in anyone, because if my father knew it he would at once fling me down a well and cover me with stones.” Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, Don Quixote · precept
“For it is a tradition among them that La Cava, through whom Spain was lost, lies buried at that spot; “cava” in their language meaning “wicked woman,” and “rumia” “Christian;” Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, Don Quixote · observation
“My reason is now free and clear, rid of the dark shadows of ignorance that my unhappy constant study of those detestable books of chivalry cast over it.” Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, Don Quixote · insight
“Look ye, Sancho, there is a great difference between what is done out of love and what is done out of gratitude.” Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, Don Quixote · insight
“Faith is the substance of the things we hope for, And evidence of those that are not seen;” Dante Alighieri, Divine Comedy, Longfellow's Translation, Paradise · precept
“Hope,” said I, “is the certain expectation Of future glory, which is the effect Of grace divine and merit precedent.” Dante Alighieri, Divine Comedy, Longfellow's Translation, Paradise · insight
“Blessedness Is founded in the faculty which sees, And not in that which loves, and follows next;” Dante Alighieri, Divine Comedy, Longfellow's Translation, Paradise · insight
“No casual point can possibly find place, No more than sadness can, or thirst, or hunger; For by eternal law has been established Whatever thou beholdest, so that closely The ring is fitted to the finger here.” Dante Alighieri, Divine Comedy, Longfellow's Translation, Paradise · observation
The author considers claims that Muhammad drew Christian ideas from Gnosticism, argues for limited evidence of gnostic teaching in Arabia, and suggests Qur'an views could reflect modified adoption of ideas from sects like Ebionites and Sabeites.
as long as he continued true to the principles of the Hanyfs, but to have quitted him in disgust at his subsequent proceedings, and to have died an orthodox Christian. It has been supposed that Muhammad derived many of his notions concerning Christianity from Gnosticism, and that it is to the numerous gnostic sects the Koran alludes when it reproaches the Christians with having "split up their religion into parties.…
Continuation of the translator’s psychological framing of Muhammad, followed by the start of Sura 19 (Mary): Zachariah is promised John, John is given wisdom, and Mary conceives Jesus by a divine act while remaining pure.
17 See Sura [lxxiii.] xvi. 3. 18 That is, the seven verses of Sura 1, p. 28. Others understand, the seven long Suras; or, the fifteen Suras which make a seventh of the whole; or, this Sura (Hedjr) as originally the seventh. Mathani is an allusion, according to some, to the frequency with which the fatthah is to be repeated; or, to the frequent repetitions of great truths, etc., in order to impress them on the memory…
Continuing Qur’anic narrative, it includes Pharaoh’s last-moment declaration and God’s response, counsel that no soul believes except by God’s permission, and exhortations to turn to true religion, persevere, and follow revelation without invoking powerless idols.
He said: "The prayer of you both is heard: pursue ye both therefore the straight path, and follow not the path of those who have no knowledge." And we led the children of Israel through the sea; and Pharaoh and his hosts followed them in eager and hostile sort until, when the drowning overtook him, he said, "I believe that there is no God but he on whom the children of Israel believe, and I am one of the Muslims." …
The text continues Qur’anic polemic: it argues that the Hour will come, describes divine knowledge of unseen and judgment, reports examples of David/Solomon and Saba’s fate, and culminates in a challenge to call upon other gods beside God and admit God as the provider.
our pleasure, we could sink them into that Earth, or cause a portion of that Heaven to fall upon them! herein truly is a sign for our every returning servant. Of old bestowed we on David a gift, our special boon:-"Ye mountains and ye birds answer his songs of praise." And we made the iron soft for him:-"Make coats of mail, and arrange its plates; and work ye righteousness; for I behold your actions." And unto Solom…
The passage argues that Muhammad’s revelations were driven by sincere monotheistic conviction yet also shaped by persecution at Mecca and later coercion and self-deception at Medina, then interleaves Quranic assertions of God’s unity, judgment, and signs rejecting idolatry.
In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful PRAISE be to God, who hath created the Heavens and the Earth, and ordained the darkness and the light! Yet unto their Lord do the infidels give peers! He it is who created you of clay then decreed the term of your life: and with Him is another prefixed term for the resurrection. Yet have ye doubts thereof! And He is God in the Heavens and on the Earth! He knoweth…
The text stresses that God sends apostles as warners, distinguishes blind and seeing, commands proper worship and prayer, and warns against arrogance and disbelief while describing how past nations were punished.
earth nor fowl that flieth with its wings, but is a folk9 like you: nothing have we passed over in the Book:10 then unto their Lord shall they be gathered. They who gainsay our signs are deaf, and dumb, in darkness: God will mislead whom He pleaseth, and whom He pleaseth He will place upon the straight path. SAY: What think ye? If the punishment of God were to come upon you, or "the Hour" were to come upon you, wil…
The passage recounts Quranic monotheistic argument through Abraham’s critique of idol worship and worship of the heavens and earth, then lists prophets Abraham’s descendants and others, concluding with claims that scripture is guidance.
His the kingdom, on the day when there shall be a blast on the trumpet: He knoweth alike the unseen and the seen: and He is the Wise, the Cognisant. And remember when Abraham said to his father Azar,18 Takest thou images as gods? Verily, I see that thou and thy people are in manifest error. And thus did we shew Abraham the kingdom of the Heavens and of the Earth,19 that he might be stablished in knowledge. And whe…
The author argues that Muhammad sincerely aimed to reform Meccan idolatry but escalated into violence at Medina, possibly aided by hallucinations, and inserts a Qur’anic passage contrasting those “called beside God” who later deny them.
6 The Resurrection, etc. 7 Abu Jahl had said: "Muhammad speaks truth, and he never said a falsehood; but, if the Banu Chosai, who enjoy already the offices of bearing the standard, of providing the pilgrims with water, and of keeping the keys of the Kaaba, should also obtain the Prophetship, what would remain for the other Koreisch." Kashaf in 1. 8 See Sura lii. 38, p. 65. These passages may allude to the ladder se…
The passage recounts Adam’s story: God teaches Adam names, commands angels to worship Adam, Eblis refuses out of pride, and Adam and his wife are banished, followed by instructions to Israel and covenant-keeping.
And when we said to the angels, "Bow down and worship Adam," then worshipped they all, save Eblis.16 He refused and swelled with pride, and became one of the unbelievers. And we said, "O Adam! dwell thou and thy wife in the Garden, and eat ye plentifully therefrom wherever ye list; but to this tree come not nigh, lest ye become of the transgressors." But Satan17 made them slip from it, and caused their banishment f…
The passage continues criticizing Israelite disbelief and hypocrisy, recounts angelic conflict and the descent of revelation (Gabriel), rejects sorcery tales associated with Harut and Marut, and warns that such unbelief forfeits reward.
And they say, "Uncircumcised are our hearts." Nay! God hath cursed them in their infidelity: few are they who believe! And when a Book had come to them from God, confirming that which they had received already-although they had before prayed for victory over those who believed not-yet when that Koran come to them, of which they had knowledge, they did not recognise it. The curse of God on the infidels! For a vile p…
The narrator argues Muhammad sincerely sought monotheism but was driven by circumstances and possibly self-deception, then shifts into Qur’anic-like warnings to believers and disputes with Jews and Christians about true guidance, prayer, charity, and God’s judgments.
But had they believed and feared God, better surely would have been the reward from God,-if they had but known it! O ye who believe! say not to our apostle, "Raina"43 (Look at us); but say, "Ondhorna" (Regard us). And attend to this; for, the Infidels shall suffer a grievous chastisement. The unbelievers among the people of the Book, and among the idolaters, desire not that any good should be sent down to you from …
It instructs children of Israel to remember God’s favor and dread the Day of Judgment, recounts Abraham’s covenant and the Ka‘ba’s sanctification, and emphasizes Islam’s continuity through prophets and surrender to God.
O children of Israel! remember my favour wherewith I have favoured you, and that high above all mankind have I raised you: And dread the day when not in aught shall soul satisfy for soul, nor shall any ransom be taken from it, nor shall any intercession avail, and they shall not be helped. When his Lord made trial of Abraham by commands which he fulfilled, He said, "I am about to make thee an Imâm to mankind:" he s…
The passage debates who knows best about Abraham’s faith, teaches that God alone guides, and centers on a change of the qibla toward the sacred Mosque, presenting it as a test and a means to end disputes.
SAY: Will ye dispute with us about God? when He is our Lord and your Lord! We have our works and ye have your works; and we are sincerely His. Will ye say, "Verily Abraham, and Ismael, and Isaac, and Jacob, and the tribes, were Jews or Christians?" SAY: Who knoweth best, ye, or God? And who is more in fault than he who concealeth the witness which he hath from God? But God is not regardless of what ye do. That peop…
Pepys relays domestic and political gossip: Mrs Turner says William Penn has become a Quaker again and appears melancholy, attributing his conduct to his father’s hypocrisy and describing him as atheist.
no company, nor comes into any which is a pleasant thing, after his being abroad so long, and his father such a hypocritical rogue, and at this time an atheist. 30th. Sir G. Carteret and I alone did talk of the ruinous condition we are in, the King being going to put out of the Council so many able men; such as my Lord Anglesy, Ashly, Hollis, Secretary Morrice (to bring in Mr. Trevor, [John Trevor, knighted by Char…
Eumaeus warns Odysseus against the dangerous wooers, then explains his own past and family, while Odysseus presses for details about Eumaeus’ origins and whether his parents live or died.
a serving-man, in piling well a fire, in cleaving dry faggots, and in carving and roasting flesh and in pouring of wine, those offices wherein meaner men serve their betters.” Then didst thou speak to him in heaviness of heart, swineherd Eumaeus: “Ah! wherefore, stranger, hath such a thought arisen in thine heart? Surely thou art set on perishing utterly there, if thou wouldest indeed go into the throng of the wooer…
The text promises reversal if Israel turns back to the LORD after scattering among nations—restoring captivity, gathering from distant places, and choosing life—contrasted with assured destruction if they turn away.
When all these words are come upon thee, whether it be the blessing or the curse which I have set before thee, yet if thou turn unto thine heart among all the nations whither the LORD thy God hath thrust thee, and come again unto the LORD thy God and hearken unto his voice according to all that I command thee this day: both thou and thy children with all thine heart and all thy soul: Then the LORD thy God will turn t…
Tyndale defines the gospel (evangelion) as joyful tidings from Greek origins, explaining how Christ’s victory frees people from sin, death, and the devil, and calls it the “new testament.”
((The gospell or evangelion)) Evangelion (that we call the gospell) is a Greek word; and signifieth good, merry, glad and joyful tidings, that maketh a man's heart glad, and maketh him sing, dance, and leap for joy. As when David had killed Goliah the giant, came glad tidings unto the jewes, that their fearful and cruel enemy was slain, and they delivered out of all danger: for gladness whereof, they sung, danced, a…
He warns that two kinds of people misunderstand salvation: those who justify themselves by outward works and those who presume on God’s mercy without fearing sin, distinguishing true faith.
good will of God upon me in the blood of his son Christ, which hath made satisfaction for mine unperfections, and fulfilled from me, that which I could not do. Here may ye perceive that two manner of people are sore deceived. First they which justify them self with outward deeds, in that they abstain outwardly from that which the law forbiddeth, and do outwardly that which the law commandeth. They compare them selve…
Tyndale describes human nature after Adam’s fall as inherently sinful and under divine wrath, then explains that grace grafts believers into Christ and enables inward consent and sorrow for sin.
((Nature.)) By nature through the fall of Adam, are we the children of wrath, heirs of the vengeance of God by birth, yee and from our conception, we have our fellowship with the damned devils under the power of darkness and rule of satan, while we are yet in our mother's wombs, though we shew not forth the fruits of sin, yet are we full of the natural poison where of all sinful deeds spring, and cannot but sin outw…
Tyndale explains the fall of Adam as making humans captives of the devil until Moses’ law exposes sin, then describes how Christ’s blood liberates, and how the gospel produces faith, love, and renewed desire for righteousness.
(Adam bringeth us to bondage.) The fall of Adam hath made us heirs of the vengeance and wrath of God, and heirs of eternal damnation; And hath brought us into captivity and bondage under the devil; And the devil is our lord, and our ruler, our head, our governor, our prince, yee and our god. And our will is locked and knit faster unto the will of the devils, then cond an hundred thousand chains bind a man unto a pos…
He continues that believers, once freed by gospel good news, love God and hunger for greater righteousness, while Christ is both redeemer and exemplar whose benefits faith receives and love gives outwardly.
is preached, the spirit of God entereth in to them which God hath ordained and appointed unto eternal life, and openeth there inward eyes, and worketh such belief in them. When the wofull consciences feel and taste how sweet a thing the bitter death of Christ is, and how merciful and loving God is through Christ's purchasing and merits; They begin to love again, and to consent to the law of God, how that it is good,…
The Gospel of Matthew’s opening traces Jesus’ genealogy from Abraham to David, then to Joseph, and recounts the virgin conception, Jesus’ naming, and Joseph’s obedience to an angelic message.
Iudas begat Phares: and Zaram of Thamar: Phares begat Esrom: Esrom begat Aram: Aram begat Aminadab: Aminadab begat Naasson: Naasson begat Salmon: Salmon begat Boos of Rahab: Boos begat Obed of Ruth: Obed begat Iesse: Iesse begat David the king: David the king begat Solomon, of her that was the wife of Ury: Solomon begat Roboam: Roboam begat Abia: Abia begat Asa: Asa begat Iosaphat: Iosaphat begat Ioram…
It continues with Matthew’s early chapters: John the Baptist preaches repentance in the wilderness, baptizes, and Jesus’ baptism and temptation by the devil in the desert are described.
locusts and wild honey. Then went out to him Ierusalem, and all Ieury, and all the region round about Iordan, and were baptised of him in Iordan, knowledging their sins. When he saw many of the pharisees and of the Saduces come to his baptism, he said unto them: O generation of vipers, who hath taught you to flee from the vengeance to come? bring forth therefore the fruits belonging to repentance. And see that ye on…
Jesus begins preaching and calls fishermen Peter and Andrew (and others), then teaches in Galilee, heals many, and later delivers the Beatitudes on a mountain.
From that time Iesus began to preach, and to say: Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. As Iesus walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brethren: Simon which was called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea (for they were fishers) and he said unto them, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. And he went forth from thence, …
Jesus warns that the gate to life is narrow, false prophets are known by their fruits, and only those who do God’s will enter heaven; afterward he teaches about wise and foolish builders, then begins miracles including a leper’s cleansing and Jesus’ authority.
destruction: and many there be, which go in thereat. For strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life: and few there be, that find it. Beware of false prophets, which come to you, in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns? Or figs of briars? Even so every good tree, bringeth forth good fruit. But a corrupt tree…
Jesus warns the apostles not to fear persecution, urges open preaching, promises divine help in speech, and teaches that his mission brings division rather than peace; he also sends them onward to preach, then answers John the Baptist’s messengers with signs and praise for John.
be as his lord is. If they have called the lord of the house beelzebub: how much more shall they call them of his household so? Fear them not therefore. There is nothing so close, that shall not be opened, and nothing so hid, that shall not be known. What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light. And what ye hear in the ear that preach ye on the house tops. And fear ye not them which kill the body, and be no…
Jesus teaches that defilement comes from what proceeds from the heart, then travels to Tyre and Sidon where a Syrophoenician woman’s reply leads to delivering her daughter from a devil; he also heals a deaf man with “Ephphatha.”
his father or mother, and thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect through your own traditions which ye have ordained. And many such things ye do. And he called all the people unto him, and said unto them: Hearken unto me every one of you and understand: There is nothing with out a man that can defile him when it entereth into him, but those things which proceed out of him are those which defile a man…
Gabriel announces to Mary in Nazareth that she will conceive Jesus, who will reign like David forever, while Zechariah is made unable to speak until John’s birth.
and ordinances of the lord that no man could find fault with them. And they had no child, because that Elizabeth was barren, And both were well stricken in age. It came to pass, as he executed the priest's office, before God as his course came (according to the custom of the priest's office) his lot was to burn odoures. And went into the temple of the lord, and all the multitude of people were without in their praye…
This passage links Gabriel’s announcement to Mary and Elizabeth’s pregnancy, then gives Mary’s Magnificat, John’s circumcision and naming, and ends with Zechariah’s prophecy of God’s salvation through David’s line.
God shall give unto him the seat of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Iacob for ever, and of his kingdom shall be none end. Then said Mary unto the angel: How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered, and said unto her: The holy ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the highest shall overshadow thee. Therefore also that holy thing which shall be born, shall be called…
John the Baptist says he must decrease as the Messiah increases; Jesus leaves Judea for Galilee via Samaria, rests at Jacob’s well, and speaks with a Samaritan woman about living water and worship in spirit and truth.
the friend of the bridegroom which standeth by and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly of the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this my joy is fulfilled. He must increase: and I must decrease. He that cometh from on high is above all: he that is of the earth is of the earth, and speaketh of the earth. He that cometh from heaven, is above all: And testifieth that he hath seen, and heard: and his testimony no man receiveth. Wh…
The Samaritan woman testifies about Jesus to the city, Jesus’ disciples urge him to eat, and he explains fulfillment of God’s will; many Samaritans believe, then Jesus returns to Galilee and heals a royal official’s son.
in spirit, and in verity. For verily such the father requireth to worship him. God is a spirit, and they that worship him, must honour him, in spirit and verity. The woman said unto him: I wot well Messias shall come, which is called Christ. When he is once come, he will tell us all things. Iesus said unto her: I that speak unto thee, am he. And even at that point, came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked wi…
Jesus’ “bread of life” teaching shocks many disciples, yet Peter confesses Jesus as Christ; afterward Jesus travels in Galilee and goes to the Jewish feast in a guarded way, teaching in the temple.
live by me. This is the bread which came from heaven: not as your fathers have eaten manna and are dead. He that eateth of this bread, shall live ever. These things said he in the synagogue as he taught in Capernaum. Many of his disciples, when they had heard this, said: this is an hard saying. Who can abide the hearing of it? Iesus knew in himself, that his disciples murmu red at it, and said unto them: Doth this o…
After hearing of the blind man’s excommunication, Jesus reveals himself to him as the Son of God, then teaches that spiritual sight and blindness determine sin, moving on to his “sheepfold” discourse and “good shepherd” identity.
of God, he could have done no thing. They answered and said unto him: thou art altogether born in sin: and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out. Iesus heard that they had excommunicated him: and as soon as he had found him he said unto him: dost thou believe on the son of God? He answered and said: And who is it lord, that I might believe on him? And Iesus said unto him: Thou hast seen him, and he it is that ta…
Jesus, warned that Judeans wanted to stone him, goes again to Judea, raises Lazarus after he has been dead four days, and declares himself the resurrection and the life.
of it. Iesus loved Martha and her sister, and Lazarus. After he heard that he was sick, then abode he two days still in the same place where he was. Then after that said he to his disciples: let us go into jewry again. His disciples said unto him: Master, the jewes lately sought means to stone thee, and wilt thou go thither again? Iesus answered: are there not twelve hours in the day? If a man walk in the day he stu…
At the tomb Mary weeps, sees two angels, then meets the risen Jesus who tells her not to touch him; later that same day he appears to locked-in disciples and commissions them with the Holy Ghost.
and he saw and believed. For as yet they knew not the scriptures, that he should rise again from death. And the disciples went away again unto their own home. Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: As she wept, she bowed herself into the sepulchre and saw two angels clothed in white sitting the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where they had laid the body of Iesus. They said unto her: woman why weep…
Acts begins with Jesus’ command to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Ghost and the promise of power, then ascension; the disciples return, gather in prayer, and Matthias is chosen to replace Judas.
and Simon Zelotes, and Iudas Iames' son. These all continued with one accord, in prayer, and supplication with the women, and Mary the mother of Iesu. And with his brethren. And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples and said (The number of names were about an hundred and twenty) Ye men and brethren, this scripture must needs be fulfilled which the holy ghost thorow the mouth of David spake befor…
Peter’s listeners are “pricked” and ask what to do; about three thousand are baptized, believers share possessions, and Peter and John heal a lame man at the temple gate called Beautiful.
foes, thy foot stool. So therefore let all the house of Israhel know for a surety, that God hath made the same Iesus whom ye have crucified, lord and Christ. When they heard this, they were pricked in their hearts, and said unto Peter, and unto the other apostles: Ye men and brethren, what shall we do? Peter said unto them: Repent and be baptised every one of you in the name of Iesus Christ, For the remission of sin…
After Stephen’s death, persecution scatters believers across Judea and Samaria; Philip preaches in Samaria with miracles, Simon the sorcerer believes and is baptized, Peter and John confer the Holy Ghost, Simon tries to buy power, and Philip is guided toward Gaza.
The .viij. Chapter. Saul had pleasure in his death. At that time there was a great persecution against the congregation which was at Ierusalem, and they were all scattered abroad thorowout the regions of Iury and Samaria, except the apostles. Then devout men dressed Steven, and made great lamentation over him. Saul made havoc of the congregation entering into every house, and drew out both man and woman, and thrust …
Philip meets an Ethiopian eunuch reading Isaiah, explains the scripture about Jesus, baptizes him after his profession of faith, and is later carried away; afterward Saul is converted on the road to Damascus, blinded for three days.
the Ethiophians, which had the rule of all her treasure, came to Ierusalem for to pray. As he returned home again sitting in his chariot he read Esay the prophet. Then the spirit said unto Philip: Go near and join thyself to yonder chariot. Philip ran to him, and heard him read Esay the prophet and said: Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said: how can I, except I had a guide? And he desired Philip that he…
Peter heals Eneas at Lydda and raises Tabitha/Dorcas at Joppa, leading many to believe; soon Peter stays at Joppa with Simon the tanner, and the narrative begins Cornelius of Caesarea’s vision and summons for Peter.
Lydda was nigh to Ioppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him, desiring him that he would not be grieved to come unto them. Peter arose and came with them: when he was come, they brought him into the chamber, and all the widows stood round about him weeping and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made while she was with them. Peter put them all forth and kneeled down and praye…
After teachers insist Gentiles must be circumcised, Paul and Barnabas go to Jerusalem; Peter argues God has already accepted Gentiles, James rules Gentiles need only specific abstentions.
The .xv. Chapter. And there came certain from jewry and taught the brethren: except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses ye cannot be saved. Then arose there dissension and disputing not a little unto Paul and Barnabas against them. And they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain other of them should ascend to Ierusalem unto the Apostles and seniors about this question. After they were brought on their…
It narrates Abraham’s rejection of idolatry using the rising and setting heavenly bodies, then lists earlier prophets (Noah, Abraham’s line, Moses, Jesus, Elias, etc.) and commands following the guidance in scripture.
His the kingdom, on the day when there shall be a blast on the trumpet: He knoweth alike the unseen and the seen: and He is the Wise, the Cognisant. And remember when Abraham said to his father Azar,18 Takest thou images as gods? Verily, I see that thou and thy people are in manifest error. And thus did we shew Abraham the kingdom of the Heavens and of the Earth,19 that he might be stablished in knowledge. And whe…
Equiano argues for an analogy between African customs and ancient Jewish practice (chiefs, patriarchal household authority, retaliation, circumcision, sacrifices), then responds to objections about African skin color with climate-and-slavery explanations.
we had our circumcision (a rule I believe peculiar to that people:) we had also our sacrifices and burnt-offerings, our washings and purifications, on the same occasions as they had. As to the difference of colour between the Eboan Africans and the modern Jews, I shall not presume to account for it. It is a subject which has engaged the pens of men of both genius and learning, and is far above my strength. The most …
Equiano explains how baptism was presented as required for Heaven, names his Miss Guerin benefactors, describes an accident nearly drowning in the Thames, and then sails in spring 1759 from Spithead toward Gibraltar.
after my arrival, he sent me to wait upon the Miss Guerins, who had treated me with much kindness when I was there before; and they sent me to school. While I was attending these ladies their servants told me I could not go to Heaven unless I was baptized. This made me very uneasy; for I had now some faint idea of a future state: accordingly I communicated my anxiety to the eldest Miss Guerin, with whom I was become…
In London Equiano leaves Doctor Irving, lodges near Haymarket, searches multiple Christian groups (churches, Quakers, Roman Catholics, Jews), and concludes only further reading of the four Evangelists fits his plan.
where I was determined to work out my own salvation, and in so doing procure a title to heaven, being the result of a mind blended by ignorance and sin. In process of time I left my master, Doctor Irving, the purifier of waters, and lodged in Coventry-court, Haymarket, where I was continually oppressed and much concerned about the salvation of my soul, and was determined (in my own strength) to be a first-rate Christ…
Distressed by the abuse and his own conviction of sin, Equiano resolves to leave England for Turkey again, recounts blasphemous thoughts, and describes receiving providential visions leading to repentance.
The Lord, in his manifold mercies, was pleased to grant my request, and being yet in a state of time, the sense of God's mercies was so great on my mind when I awoke, that my strength entirely failed me for many minutes, and I was exceedingly weak. This was the first spiritual mercy I ever was sensible of, and being on praying ground, as soon as I recovered a little strength, and got out of bed and dressed myself, I …
Equiano visits Mr. C---- in Holborn, reads The Conversion of an Indian, hears gospel preaching for near two months, and struggles with doctrine about needing the new birth and pardon before death.
eternity long, and very near, and I viewed those persons alone blessed who were found ready at midnight call, or when the Judge of all, both quick and dead, cometh. The next day I took courage, and went to Holborn, to see my new and worthy acquaintance, the old man, Mr. C----; he, with his wife, a gracious woman, were at work at silk weaving; they seemed mutually happy, and both quite glad to see me, and I more so to…
Through chapel teaching Equiano debates assurance of forgiveness, learns that salvation is not by keeping commandments but by Christ, and attends sermons that intensify both joy and fear about final judgment.
To which he replied, 'The law is a schoolmaster to bring us to Christ,' who alone could and did keep the commandments, and fulfilled all their requirements for his elect people, even those to whom he had given a living faith, and the sins of those chosen vessels *were already* atoned for and forgiven them whilst living; and if I did not experience the same before my exit, the Lord would say at that great day to me 'G…
Equiano describes spiritual conviction and guidance leading him to return to sea, after advice from religious friends, including Mr. G. S. at Tothill-Fields Bridewell, and a voyage from London to Cadiz.
Again I was convinced that the Lord was better to me than I deserved, and I was better off in the world than many. After this I began to fear death; I fretted, mourned, and prayed, till I became a burden to others, but more so to myself. At length I concluded to beg my bread on shore rather than go again to sea amongst a people who feared not God, and I entreated the captain three different times to discharge me; he …
Meditating on Acts 4:12 and Romans, Equiano experiences a conversion vision of Christ on Calvary, concludes justification is by Christ not deeds, and describes being “born again” by divine grace.
pleased God to enable me to wrestle with him, as Jacob did: I prayed that if sudden death were to happen, and I perished, it might be at Christ's feet. In the evening of the same day, as I was reading and meditating on the fourth chapter of the Acts, twelfth verse, under the solemn apprehensions of eternity, and reflecting on my past actions, I began to think I had lived a moral life, and that I had a proper ground …
Equiano shifts to verse reflecting on his early convictions—sorrow, guilt, despair, Ethiopian longing, and eventual relief—culminating in salvation “by Christ alone.”
in my heart to the God of all my mercies. Now my whole wish was to be dissolved, and to be with Christ--but, alas! I must wait mine appointed time. * * * * * MISCELLANEOUS VERSES, or Reflections on the State of my mind during my first Convictions; of the Necessity of believing the Truth, and experiencing the inestimable Benefits of Christianity. Well may I say my life has been …
Continuing the poem, Equiano describes the “happy hour” when he believes and ceases groaning, rejecting works and sacrifices as insufficient and affirming Christ’s atonement.
He dy'd for sinners--I am one! Might not his blood for me atone? Tho' I am nothing else but sin, Yet surely he can make me clean! Thus light came in, and I believ'd; Myself forgot, and help receiv'd! My Saviour then I know I found, For, eas'd from guilt, no more I groan'd. O, happy hour, in which I ceas'd To mourn, for then I found a rest! My soul and Christ were now as one-- Thy light, O Je…
On the sloop Morning Star to Jamaica, Equiano instructs a baptized Musquito prince named George, teaches him to read and pray, and describes his attentiveness and religious practices during the voyage.
not one of them could tell. We provided them with every necessary, and brought them all safe to London: and I hope the Lord gave them repentance unto life eternal. I was happy once more amongst my friends and brethren, till November, when my old friend, the celebrated Doctor Irving, bought a remarkable fine sloop, about 150 tons. He had a mind for a new adventure in cultivating a plantation at Jamaica and the Musquit…
Equiano describes efforts to convert a “Musquito Prince” from perceived heathenhood, then recounts religious mockery, moral disputes about hell, and a ship mast accident near Martinico where no one is hurt.
I was well pleased at this, and took great delight in him, and used much supplication to God for his conversion. I was in full hope of seeing daily every appearance of that change which I could wish; not knowing the devices of satan, who had many of his emissaries to sow his tares as fast as I sowed the good seed, and pull down as fast as I built up. Thus we went on nearly four fifths of our passage, when satan at la…
Geoffroi de Villehardouin describes how Fulk of Neuilly preached the Crusade in France, how Pope Innocent III ordered preaching and granted indulgence for one year of service, prompting nobles to take the cross.
Chronicle of The Fourth Crusade and The Conquest of Constantinople by Geoffrey de Villehardouin Translated by Frank T. Marzials London: J.M. Dent, 1908 THE FIRST PREACHING OF THE CRUSADE Be it known to you that eleven hundred and ninety-seven years after the Incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ, in the time of Innocent Pope of Rome, and Philip King of France, and Richard King of England, there was in France a ho…
The chronicle lists many nobles who took the cross in Champagne, Blois, and the Isle-de-France, then states that in Lent 1200 the Crusade was taken in Bruges by Baldwin and Mary of Flanders.
[Note: Geoffry de Joinville—the father of the chronicler Joinville.] With Count Louis took the cross Gervais of Châtel, Hervée his son, John of Virsin, Oliver of Rochefort, Henry of Montreuil, Payen of Orléans, Peter of Bracietix, Hugh his brother, William of Sains, John of Friaize, Walter of Gaudonville, Hugh of Cormeray, Geoffry his brother, Hervée of Beauvoir, Robert of Frouville, Peter his brother, Orri of l’Isl…
Boniface, Marquis of Montferrat, accepts leadership in Soissons, receives the cross, travels to preach and recruit, while Count Geoffry of Perche dies shortly before the pilgrims depart toward Venice in June 1202.
BONIFACE, MARQUIS OF MONTFERRAT, BECOMES CHIEF OF THE CRUSADE—NEW CRUSADERS—DEATH OF GEOFFRY COUNT OF PERCHE So he came to a parliament assembled at Soissons; and the main part of the counts and barons and of the other Crusaders were there assembled. When they heard that the marquis was coming, they went out to meet him, and did him much honour. In the morning the parliament was held in an orchard belonging to the a…
At supper, Dorothea asks whether the veiled woman is Christian or Moor, the captive says she is a good Christian who seeks baptism, and she removes her veil revealing her beauty; her name is corrected to Maria and Zoraida is denied.
accompany Señor Don Quixote; for we wish to witness the valiant and unparalleled achievements he is about to perform in the course of this mighty enterprise which he has undertaken.” “It is I who shall wait upon and accompany you,” said Don Quixote; “and I am much gratified by the favour that is bestowed upon me, and the good opinion entertained of me, which I shall strive to justify or it shall cost me my life, or …
A renegade from Murcia reads the Arabic paper: a Moorish woman named Zoraida/Zoraida-in-advance (Lela Marien devotion) seeks to reach Christian territory, warns against trusting Moors, and proposes marriage if escape succeeds.
Full Size We made trial as before, each of the same three going forward before I did; but the reed was delivered to none but me, and on my approach it was let drop. I untied the knot and I found forty Spanish gold crowns with a paper written in Arabic, and at the end of the writing there was a large cross drawn. I kissed the cross, took the crowns and returned to the terrace, and we all made our salaams; again the h…
The renegade interpreter translates the woman’s message as a childhood instruction about Lela Marien, claims she has seen her twice, and asks the captive to arrange a route to Christian land while protecting the secret from her father.
We read the paper and it ran thus: “When I was a child my father had a slave who taught me to pray the Christian prayer in my own language, and told me many things about Lela Marien. The Christian died, and I know that she did not go to the fire, but to Allah, because since then I have seen her twice, and she told me to go to the land of the Christians to see Lela Marien, who had great love for me. I know not how to…