An Introduction to Quakerism (Introduction to Religion)
Edition: 1 edition
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: April 30, 2007
Language: eng
Format: Paperback
Number of pages: 296
ISBN-13: 9780521600880
Subjects: Quakers (Religious Society of Friends); Religion; Religion - Church History; Christianity - Quaker; Religion / Christianity; Christianity - General
Description: This is the first comprehensive introduction to Quakerism which balances a history of the theology of the Quakers or Friends with an overview of present day practice. It charts the growth of the Quaker movement through the 1650s and 1660s, its different theological emphasis in the eighteenth century, and the schisms of the nineteenth century which resulted in the range of Quaker traditions found around the world today. The book focuses in particular on notions of "endtime," "spiritual intimacy," and what counts as "the world" as key areas of theological change. The second half of the book uses extracts from Quaker texts to highlight differences in belief and approach between the different traditions and analyses their future prospects. The book is generously illustrated and includes numerous diagrams to help the reader. Undergraduate and graduate students will find this an essential introduction to the Quaker movement.