Subject
Philosophy, Ancient -- Early works to 1800 Books
Best books
Thomas Burnet
The sacred theory of the Earth, Volume 1 (of 2) : $b Containing an account of the original of the Earth, and of all the general changes which it hath already undergone, or is to undergo, till the consummation of all things.
"The Sacred Theory of the Earth" by Thomas Burnet is a scientific exploration written in the early 18th century. This text delves into the origins of the Earth, examining major geological events, including the Deluge, and outlines the processes that have shaped the planet over time. The work is structured into two volumes, where the first focuses on past geological changes, particularly the stories of Paradise and the Deluge, while hinting at future transformations, including the eventual conflagration and new heavens. The opening of the narrative introduces the author's ambitious goal to investigate both the origin and the significant alterations the Earth has undergone. Burnet emphasizes the necessity of understanding these elements to grasp the divine providence governing nature and humanity's place within it. He asserts that existing philosophies fall short of adequately explaining the Universal Deluge, prompting a re-evaluation of the commonly accepted accounts. This exploration promises to challenge prevailing notions and encourage a deeper consideration of geological and scriptural interpretations.
Thomas Burnet
The sacred theory of the Earth, Volume 2 (of 2) : $b Containing an account of the original of the Earth, and of all the general changes which it hath already undergone, or is to undergo, till the consummation of all things.
"The sacred theory of the Earth, Volume 2 (of 2) : Containing an account of the…." by Thomas Burnet is a theological and natural-philosophical treatise written in the early 18th century. It investigates the prophesied burning of the present world, the natural and scriptural grounds for that event, and the subsequent “new heavens and new earth.” Framing the current Earth as a ruin to be purified and refashioned, it argues for a paradisiacal renewal and treats the Millennium and the future state of humankind. The opening of this volume presents a courtly dedication that contrasts the grandeur of earthly dominion with the promised second Paradise after a purifying fire, followed by a preface that sets the aim: to explain the conflagration’s extent, causes, and manner, and the world’s renovation, in line with St. Peter and under Providence. An outline lists chapters on ancient testimonies, timing, causes and materials of the last fire, its progress, preceding signs, and then the birth, form, and inhabitants of the renewed world and the Millennium. The early chapters clarify that “world” means the sublunary Earth (not the heavens), that matter is not annihilated but its form dissolved, and that both classical authorities (especially the Stoics, with echoes from older Eastern traditions like the Phoenix emblem) and Scripture affirm a final judgment by fire. The text then argues the time cannot be fixed by astronomy or planetary conjunctions, critiques the “Great Year” and offers a natural reinterpretation of it, and notes that chronologies (sacred and profane) are uncertain. Turning to prophecy, it reviews the Jewish six-thousand-year tradition embraced by early Christian writers, yet shows how dating disagreements misled some to think the end was near, and concludes that apocalyptic periods (e.g., 1260 days) are indecisive without secure starting points. Overall, these opening sections establish the scope, sources, and method: reasoned inquiry anchored in Scripture, skeptical of astrological determinism, and cautious about timing while confident in the event and its redemptive purpose.
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