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)
Variety in creation prevents monotony.
The healer's art draws from nature's pharmacy.
Stars and flowers both declare God's glory.
Patience is required in the botanist's labor.
The river's flow mirrors life's journey.
Fossils whisper of ancient worlds.
Generosity in nature abounds for all creatures.
A witty observer notes the fly's dance.
Knowledge of herbs saves lives in plague.
The soul finds peace in woodland walks.
Butterflies transform as souls ascend.
Mock not the humble worm; it tills the earth.
In my declining years, nature remains my teacher.
The eagle's flight inspires lofty thoughts.
Seeds dormant wait for spring's call.
Debate with scholars sharpens the mind.
Rain's gentle touch revives the parched land.
The ant's industry shames the idle man.
Eternity is glimpsed in a dewdrop.
Classify with care, lest error creep in.
Contemporaries of John Ray
Other Biologys born within 50 years of John Ray (1627–1705).