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 species is the only fixed and immutable thing in nature.
The study of nature is the most proper employment of a rational creature.
The wisdom of God is conspicuous in the least as well as in the greatest of his works.
The works of God are so many proofs of his existence and attributes.
The true method of studying nature is to begin with particulars, and so proceed to generals.
The more we know of the works of God, the more we shall be disposed to adore him.
The world is full of wonders, and every part of it is a demonstration of the wisdom and power of God.
The study of natural history is a most excellent means to promote piety and devotion.
The works of God are not only great and marvellous, but also beautiful and delightful.
The more we contemplate the works of God, the more we shall be filled with admiration and love.
The whole creation is a mirror, in which we may see the perfections of God.
The study of nature is a most effectual way to enlarge our minds and improve our understandings.
The works of God are so many lessons, which teach us our duty to him.
The more we know of the works of God, the more we shall be sensible of our own ignorance.
The works of nature are all designed for the good of man.
The study of nature is a most delightful and innocent recreation.
The works of God are so many arguments to persuade us to a holy life.
The more we search into the works of nature, the more we shall discover new wonders.
The whole creation is a hymn of praise to its great Creator.
The study of nature is a most noble and worthy employment.
Contemporaries of John Ray
Other Biologys born within 50 years of John Ray (1627–1705).