Judaism in the Theology of Sir Isaac Newton

Recent scholarship on Sir Isaac Newton's non-scientific studies years has created a framework for deeper investigations into particular areas of his thought. In this volume, the author attempts to understand how Newton learned about the history and literature of the Jews, and how he integrated his findings into his unique historical theology. Newton, who probably never met a Jew, nevertheless invested heavily in Jewish studies, which left their mark on all areas of Newtonian theology: the investigations of early religion, scriptural prophecy, Trinitarianism, the early church, and the corruption of primitive Christianity. In the course of this study, important aspects of Newton's thought are clarified, such as his relationship with the Church of England, his understanding of biblical authority, and his euhemerism. Not only Newton specialists, but all those interested in the early-Enlightenment universe of Newtonian thought, or in the impact of Hebraic studies on Western ideas, should find this text of interest.