John Woolman Quotes

A collection of quotes by John Woolman.

John Woolman (1720-1772) was an American Quaker preacher, merchant, and abolitionist. Born in New Jersey, he dedicated his life to promoting equality and social justice. A deeply spiritual man, Woolman resisted owning slaves and opposed the consumption of goods produced by enslaved people. He traveled extensively, speaking out against slavery and advocating for peaceful relations with Native Americans. His writings, particularly his Journal, which chronicled his spiritual journey and beliefs, had a significant impact on early American abolitionism. Woolman is remembered as a compassionate advocate for human rights and an influential figure in the fight against slavery.

I find that to be a fool as to worldly wisdom, and to commit

I find that to be a fool as to worldly wisdom, and to commit my cause to God, not fearing to offend men, who take offence at the simplicity of truth, is the only way to remain unmoved at the sentiments of others.

Wisdom

If kind parents love their children and delight in their hap

If kind parents love their children and delight in their happiness, then he who is perfect goodness in sending abroad mortal contagions doth assuredly direct their use.

Happiness

My heart hath often been deeply afflicted under a feeling th

My heart hath often been deeply afflicted under a feeling that the standard of pure righteousness is not lifted up to the people by us, as a society, in that clearness which it might have been, had we been as faithful as we ought to be to the teachings of Christ.

Faith

About the twenty-third year of my age, I had many fresh and

About the twenty-third year of my age, I had many fresh and heavenly openings, in respect to the care and providence of the Almighty over his creatures in general, and over man as the most noble amongst those which are visible.

Respect

When men take pleasure in feeling their minds elevated with

When men take pleasure in feeling their minds elevated with strong drink, and so indulge their appetite as to disorder their understandings, neglect their duty as members of a family or civil society, and cast off all regard to religion, their case is much to be pitied.

Religion