James Naylor, the Quaker
James Naylor, born in 1616 in East Ardsley, Yorkshire, was the son of a small farmer. He received a basic education and married at twenty-two, later becoming a zealous Independent. Naylor joined the Parliamentary army in 1641, rising to the rank of quartermaster but left due to ill health in 1649. After returning home, he became involved with the Independent church but later joined the Quakers, influenced by George Fox. In 1652, Naylor began a religious visitation, gaining a following due to his charismatic preaching. His popularity led to tensions with established Quaker leaders, particularly after he encouraged women to exalt him during meetings. In 1656, he was arrested in Exeter for vagrancy and later released, continuing his ministry in Bristol, where he led a controversial procession that drew public attention. Naylor's actions led to his arrest and trial for blasphemy. The Parliament found him guilty, sentencing him to severe punishments, including public whipping and branding. Despite petitions for clemency, he endured the full extent of his sentence, which included being pilloried and having his tongue bored through with a hot iron. After his release from prison, Naylor expressed remorse for his actions and sought reconciliation with the Quaker community. He was eventually restored to their fellowship. His later life was marked by continued religious fervor, but he faced accusations of immorality, which he denied. Naylor died in 1660 after being attacked by highwaymen. His final words reflected a deep spiritual insight, emphasizing endurance, love, and forgiveness. His writings, published posthumously, reveal a mix of profound thought and confusion, capturing the complexities of his character and beliefs.
By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1906 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Biography, Religious Literature · 5,175 words
First lines
James Naylor was born at East Ardsley, near Wakefield, in 1616. He was the son of a small farmer, whose house was near the old church. He received a passable education in reading, writing, and arithmetic. In 1628, when he was aged twenty-two, he married, and settled in Wakefield parish. He was a diligent reader of the Scriptures, and zealous as an Independent. He spent about three years at Wakefield, and then joined the Parliamentary army as a private in 1641. He rose to become quartermaster of his regiment under Major-General Lambert, but in 1649, on account of ill-health, he was obliged to leave the army and return to Wakefield. The pulpits of the Established Church were now in the hands of Independent ministers, and that of Horbury, near Wakefield, was occupied by the "godly and painful Master Marshall," under whom James Naylor sat and groaned with unction.[8]
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James Naylor, the Quaker is listed on Textopian as a historical account by Sabine Baring-Gould, dated 1906 CE.
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- Work type: Historical account
- Author: Sabine Baring-Gould
- Date: 1906 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Biography, Religious Literature, Drama, Philosophical Literature
- Length: 5,175 words
- Structure: 1 section, 133 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Historical Fiction — The book recounts the life and events surrounding James Naylor, a historical figure, blending factual history with narrative elements.
- Biography — It provides a detailed account of James Naylor's life, beliefs, and experiences, focusing on his personal journey and struggles.
- Religious Literature — The themes of faith, spirituality, and religious fervor are central to the narrative, particularly regarding Quaker beliefs.
- Drama — The book includes dramatic elements, particularly in the trials and public humiliation faced by Naylor, which evoke strong emotional responses.
Tags
Quaker · religion · history · spirituality · Christianity · faith · 17th century · Puritanism · nonconformity · biography · social justice · activism