George Fox

Date of Birth: July 1624

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: January 13, 1691

Biography

George Fox was born in July 1624 in Fenny Drayton, Leicestershire, England. He was a prominent English Dissenter and the founder of the Religious Society of Friends, commonly known as the Quakers or Friends. Fox’s early life was marked by a deep spiritual quest that led him to reject the formalism and hierarchy of the established Church of England. He experienced a profound religious awakening around 1647, which he described as a direct communion with God, without the need for clergy or sacraments. Fox began preaching across England, advocating for a form of Christianity based on direct experience of Christ, inner light, and simple living. His message attracted a significant following despite frequent persecution and imprisonment. In 1650, he was imprisoned for blasphemy in Derby, where he and his followers were mockingly called “Quakers” because they urged people to “tremble at the word of the Lord.” Throughout his life, Fox traveled extensively, not only in England but also to Ireland, the Caribbean, and America, spreading Quaker beliefs. His efforts laid the foundations for a global religious movement that emphasizes equality, peace, and social justice. Fox married Margaret Fell, a prominent supporter of the Quaker movement, in 1669. He continued his ministry until his death on January 13, 1691, in London.

5 Interesting Facts about George Fox

1. George Fox was imprisoned several times due to his religious beliefs and practices, which were seen as radical and subversive.

2. He married Margaret Fell, a widow who was a significant supporter of the Quaker movement, which helped strengthen the Quaker community.

3. Fox’s journal, published posthumously, is considered a classic of spiritual autobiography and provides deep insights into his life and beliefs.

4. He was known for his strong opposition to the payment of tithes to the Church of England, which he viewed as unbiblical.

5. Fox’s teachings emphasized the “Inner Light,” the belief that there is something of God in everyone, which became a central tenet of Quakerism.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Fox

1. “Walk cheerfully over the world, answering that of God in every one.”

2. “Be patterns, be examples in all countries, places, islands, nations wherever you come; that your carriage and life may preach among all sorts of people, and to them.”

3. “I saw that there was an ocean of darkness and death; but an infinite ocean of light and love, which flowed over the ocean of darkness.”

4. “The Lord showed me, so that I did see clearly, that he did not dwell in these temples which men had commanded and set up, but in people’s hearts.”

5. “The truth is one and the same always.”