Ronald Knox
Ronald Knox: A Life of Faith, Intellect, and Wit
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#### Full Name and Common Aliases
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Ronald Arbuthnott Knox was a British Anglican priest, scholar, writer, and broadcaster. He is also known by his pen name, "Felix Farley."
#### Birth and Death Dates
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Born on October 17, 1888, in Carlisle, Cumberland (now part of Cumbria), England, Ronald Knox passed away on February 24, 1957.
#### Nationality and Profession(s)
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Knox was a British Anglican priest and scholar. He held various positions within the Church of England, including being the rector of the church at Bicester in Oxfordshire.
Early Life and Background
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Ronald Knox was born into an Anglo-Irish family. His father, Sir Edward William Knox, was a prominent figure in British politics. The younger Knox's early years were marked by his interest in literature, language, and theology. He studied at Winchester College before attending New College, Oxford.
At Oxford, Knox developed a strong affinity for languages, particularly Latin and Greek. He also cultivated an appreciation for classical literature, which would later influence his writing style. His academic pursuits laid the groundwork for his future endeavors as a scholar and writer.
Major Accomplishments
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Ronald Knox's life was marked by numerous accomplishments in both academia and public service. Some of his most notable achievements include:
Becoming a fellow of New College, Oxford
Publishing numerous books on theology, language, and literature
Translating the Bible into Latin and other languages
Knox's work as a scholar and writer was not limited to his academic pursuits. He also made significant contributions to public discourse through his broadcasts and writings for various newspapers.
Notable Works or Actions
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Ronald Knox's notable works include:
The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius: A translation and explanation of the spiritual exercises attributed to St. Ignatius Loyola.
The Latin New Testament: A revised version of the New Testament in Latin, which became widely used by scholars and theologians.
Essays on Church Music and Other Subjects: A collection of essays that showcase Knox's insights on theology, language, and culture.
In addition to his written works, Knox was also a prolific broadcaster. He presented numerous radio programs and lectures, discussing topics ranging from theology to literature.
Impact and Legacy
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Ronald Knox's impact extends far beyond his individual accomplishments. As a scholar, writer, and public figure, he played a significant role in shaping the intellectual landscape of 20th-century Britain.
Knox's commitment to faith, learning, and creative expression has inspired generations of scholars, writers, and thinkers. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of intellect, imagination, and dedication.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Ronald Knox is widely quoted or remembered for his:
Intellectual rigor: Knox's work demonstrates an unwavering commitment to academic excellence.
Creative expression: Through his writing and broadcasting, Knox showcased a remarkable ability to convey complex ideas in engaging and accessible ways.
* Faith and spirituality: His work on theology and spirituality continues to inspire readers and thinkers today.
In conclusion, Ronald Knox was a multifaceted individual whose contributions to scholarship, literature, and public discourse have left a lasting impact.
Quotes by Ronald Knox
It is an infinitely small point, but does the abandonment, total or partial, of the clerical garb by some modern clergymen really make the laity feel more at home with them?
It appears, then, that the two processes are going on side by side, the decline of Church membership and the decline of dogma; the evacuation of the pew and the jettisoning of cargo from the pulpit.
I have suggested above, the pilots of our storm-tossed denominations have lost no opportunity of lightening ship by jettisoning every point of doctrine that seemed questionable, and therefore unessential; hell has been abolished, and sin very nearly; the Old Testament is never alluded to but with a torrent of disclaimers, and miracle with an apologetic grimace.
No preacher would deliberately judge the credibility of his message by the credulity of his audience. But the prevalent irreligion of the age does exercise a continual unconscious pressure upon the pulpit; it makes preachers hesitate to affirm doctrines whose affirmation would be unpopular. And a doctrine which has ceased to be affirmed is doomed, like a disused organ, to atrophy. That.
It doesn’t do to say that heresy produces the development of doctrine, because that annoys the theologians. But it is true to say that as a matter of history the development of doctrine has been largely a reaction on the Church’s part to the attacks of heresy.
He who travels in the Barque of Peter had better not look too closely into the engine room.
Knox was engaged in a theological discussion with scientist John Scott Haldane. 'In a universe containing millions of planets,' reasoned Haldane, 'is it not inevitable that life should appear on at least one of them?' 'Sir,' replied Knox, 'if Scotland Yard found a body in your cabin trunk, would you tell them: 'There are millions of trunks in the world; surely one of them must contain a body? I think the would still want to know who put it there.'
All men who have ideals . . . live by some kind of faith, by committing themselves to some kind of loyalty which is not universally recognized as the common property of all thinking men. They must have something-something outside themselves, to make them feel life is worth living, that good rather than evil is the explanation of the world.