Thomas Traherne

Date of Birth: 1636

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: September 27, 1674

Biography

Thomas Traherne was an English clergyman, poet, and theologian, born around 1636 in Hereford, England. His writings, which include both prose and poetry, are known for their spiritual and philosophical depth, reflecting his devout Christian beliefs and his fascination with the innocence and wonder of childhood. Traherne attended Brasenose College, Oxford, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1656 and his Master of Arts degree in 1661. He was ordained in 1660 and served as the rector of Credenhill, near Hereford, from 1657 until his death in 1674. Traherne’s works were largely unpublished and forgotten until the early 20th century when his manuscripts were rediscovered. His most famous works include “Centuries of Meditations,” a collection of deeply spiritual reflections, and “Poems,” which explore themes of divine love, innocence, and the natural world. Traherne’s writings have since gained recognition for their profound insights into spirituality and their lyrical beauty.

5 Interesting Facts about Thomas Traherne

1. Traherne’s manuscripts were discovered by chance in a London bookstall in 1896, over 200 years after his death.

2. His writings emphasize the importance of seeing the world through the eyes of a child, with a sense of wonder and innocence.

3. Traherne was a contemporary of other notable metaphysical poets like John Donne and George Herbert, though he was not widely known in his own time.

4. He served as private chaplain to Sir Orlando Bridgeman, Lord Keeper of the Great Seal, in the latter part of his life.

5. Traherne’s “Centuries of Meditations” was praised by literary figures such as C.S. Lewis, who considered it one of the great Christian devotional works.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Thomas Traherne

1. “Your enjoyment of the world is never right, till every morning you awake in Heaven.”

2. “Love is the true means by which the world is enjoyed: our love to others, and others’ love to us.”

3. “The world is a mirror of infinite beauty, yet no man sees it.”

4. “You never enjoy the world aright, till the sea itself floweth in your veins.”

5. “Happiness is nothing but the conquest of God by the spirit.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There is no historical record of Thomas Traherne’s net worth, as wealth accumulation was not a focus of his life and work.

Children

There is no historical record of Thomas Traherne having any children. His personal life remains largely undocumented beyond his professional and literary achievements.