John Ray
A naturalist who made significant contributions to taxonomy, defining the concept of a species and publishing influential works on plants and animals.
Most quoted
"In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light: and there was light."
— from Wisdom of God Manifested in the Works of the Creation
"The wisdom of God is conspicuously seen in the admirable contrivance of the bodies of animals, and the exquisite fitness of their several parts to their respective functions."
— from The Wisdom of God Manifested in the Works of the Creation, 1691
"Let us then with all diligence apply ourselves to the study of nature, that we may thereby be led to admire and adore its great Creator."
— from Preface to Synopsis Methodica Stirpium Britannicarum
All quotes by John Ray (391)
The study of nature is an excellent preparation for the study of theology.
The visible world is but a shadow of the invisible.
The great end of all our studies should be to know God, and to glorify him.
The more we understand the works of God, the more we shall be convinced of his existence and perfections.
The world is full of wonders, if we do but open our eyes and look about us.
The contemplation of the works of God is a most delightful and profitable employment.
The whole creation proclaims the glory of God.
The wisdom of God is seen not only in the greatness, but also in the minuteness of his works.
The study of nature is a perpetual feast to the mind.
The more we know of nature, the more we shall admire the Author of nature.
The world is a theatre, whereon God displays his infinite perfections.
The beauty of the creation is a reflection of the beauty of God.
The contemplation of the works of God is a source of true happiness.
The universe is a vast and glorious temple, where God is worshipped by all his creatures.
The study of nature leads us to God.
The more we search into the secrets of nature, the more we shall find cause to adore the wisdom of God.
The whole creation is a school, in which we may learn the wisdom and power of God.
The works of God are so many sermons, preaching to us his infinite perfections.
The contemplation of nature is a most powerful antidote against atheism and infidelity.
The world is a mirror, in which we may see the face of God.
Contemporaries of John Ray
Other Biologys born within 50 years of John Ray (1627–1705).