An Introduction to Quakerism

An introduction to Quaker history, theology and practice that addresses the diversity of Quakerism today.

This comprehensive introduction to Quakerism balances a history of the theology of the movement with an overview of present day practice. It charts Quaker history across three and a half centuries including the schisms of the nineteenth century which resulted in the range of Quaker traditions found worldwide today.This is a 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.