Quaker Quicks - Hearing the Light - The core of Quaker theology

Hearing the Light, by Rhiannon Grant, explores the foundations of Quaker theology, which is based on unprogrammed, silent worship. This practice is essential to understanding Central Quaker theological claims, such as that everyone has that of God within them, that God offers support and guidance to all who choose to listen, and that Quakers as a community are led by God to treat everyone equally, resist war, and live simply. Grant also explores what it means to say that this form of theology is liberal, not mainly political but an attitude towards diversity of thought, opinion, and especially religious belief. This radical approach to faith and learning is prescient at a time of great religious and political division.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 24 September 2021
Publisher: John Hunt Publishing

Quaker Quicks - Hearing the Light delves into the core principles of Quaker theology, which are rooted in the Quaker practice of unprogrammed, silent worship. This act of coming together as a community to await and attentively listen to God lies at the very essence of Quakerism and is crucial for comprehending Quaker theology, which is intricately woven into the practice and elucidated by it. Rhiannon Grant elucidates how Central Quaker theological assertions, such as the inherent divinity within every individual, the divine provision of support and guidance to those who choose to heed, and the guiding influence of God upon the Quaker community to treat all individuals with fairness, abstain from warfare, and lead simple lives, can be grasped by examining this distinctive worship tradition. Furthermore, Grant explores the significance of declaring this form of theology as liberal, despite the fact that many Quakers hold political liberal views, they have also been labeled as conservative radicals (Kenneth Boulding). It is important to note that the liberalism inherent in Quaker theology extends beyond politics and encompasses a mindset of embracing diversity of thought, opinion, and, particularly, religious belief. While united by the practice of unprogrammed worship, Quakers do not have a written creed or specific beliefs that are mandated for members. Instead, there exists a prevailing attitude of ongoing exploration, an acceptance that new evidence may emerge, and a willingness to learn from others, including members of different faith communities. In a time of profound religious and political divisions, Grant's insights into this radical approach to faith and learning offer a timely and valuable perspective.

Weight: 90g
Dimension: 140 x 215 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789045048