Some Thoughts conerning the Proofs of a Future State from Reason. Occasioned by a discourse of the Rev. Mr. Joseph Hallet on the same subject.

Henry Grove

Published by Hett and Gray, London, 1730

About this Item

A fascinating exploration of the reasonability of life after death with humanist leanings First Edition Henry Grove (1684-1738) was a contemporary of Isaac Watts, educated at dissenting schools in Taunton and London. After a brief stint as a minister in Ilchester, he became a tutor at his old Taunton academy, where his 'open-mindedness' quickly (and perhaps wisely) led him to stay as far away as possible from contemporary theological disputes. Whilst this led some to question his theological ability, his work is marked by the influence of Newton and Locke, and he maintained a commitment to the role of reason in faith (stating that otherwise, conversion would be an arational act. In these Proofs, Groves explores the reasonability of belief in the afterlife. He expresses his personal preference that nonbelievers ought simply to cease to exist rather than to endure an eternity of Hell, but concedes that punishment is probably more in accord with the nature and will of God. He goes on to underscore his belief in reason ('there can be no room for a dispute between reason and revelation") and expounds that "the whole system of divine truths contain"d in the Gospel" has "the same tendency to enlarge the mind, to purify and exalt the affections,and to establish the liberty of the will, as that swarm of errors which fill"d the Pagan world had to confine, to pollute, and enslave.' In a full calf binding. Externally, worn, with rubbing to the joints and extremities. Minor chipping to the spine. Joints are cracked. Internally, firmly bound. Front pastedown separated from board with bookplate of Professor David Arthut Pailin to the exposed board; some damp staining; wormholes in outer margin of final three leave of text and two blank end papers; two headpieces; errata on p. 211; faint remains of speckled light red staining on edges of leaves. Good. Seller Inventory # LTH19-B-16

Bibliographic Details

Title: Some Thoughts conerning the Proofs of a ...

Publisher: Hett and Gray, London

Publication Date: 1730

Binding: Leather

Illustrator: None

Condition: Good

Edition: First edition.

Book Type: book