Prayer and Science
The work explores the relationship between science and religion, particularly in the context of seafaring. It addresses the common belief that the existence of fixed natural laws negates the need for prayer, arguing instead that both science and divine providence coexist harmoniously. The author posits that seafaring individuals, who rely on both scientific knowledge and faith, exemplify this balance. They navigate the sea's dangers through observation and understanding while also recognizing the limits of human knowledge, which necessitates prayer for guidance and protection against unknown perils. The text emphasizes that true religion does not conflict with scientific inquiry; rather, both are essential for comprehending the world. It critiques superstitions often associated with sailors, asserting that genuine faith is rooted in understanding and reason. The founding of the Trinity House is presented as a testament to the belief that God empowers humanity to help themselves through knowledge and innovation, rather than relying solely on divine intervention. Ultimately, the work advocates for a synthesis of faith and reason, encouraging individuals to seek wisdom and understanding while maintaining a humble reliance on divine guidance in the face of life's uncertainties.
By Charles Kingsley · First published 1873 · Genre: Religion, Philosophy, Science · 3,842 words
First lines
(_Preached at St. Olave's Church_, _Hart Street_, _before the Honourable Corporation of the Trinity House_, 1866.) PSALM CVII. 23, 24, 28. They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters; these see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep. Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.
What this Textopian page supports
Prayer and Science is listed on Textopian as a speech by Charles Kingsley, dated 1873 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Speech
- Author: Charles Kingsley
- Date: 1873 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religion, Philosophy, Science, Spirituality
- Length: 3,842 words
- Structure: 1 section, 31 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Prayer and Science by Charles Kingsley
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Prayer and Science?
- How does this speech by Charles Kingsley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Religion first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Natural Theology Of The Future by Charles Kingsley
- The God Of Nature by Charles Kingsley
- The Image Of The Earthly And The Heavenly by Charles Kingsley
- Gods Creation by Charles Kingsley
- The Life Of God by Charles Kingsley
- The Life Of The Spirit by Charles Kingsley
Genres
- Religion — The book discusses the concept of prayer, which is a significant aspect of many religions.
- Philosophy — The exploration of prayer and science topic involves philosophical insights and considerations.
- Science — Half of the book focuses on the topic of science and its relationship with prayer.
- Spirituality — Concepts of prayer often feature discussions of spirituality.
Tags
prayer · science · faith · religion · philosophy · spirituality · theology · nature · morality · ethics · humanity · existence