John Selden Quotes

A collection of quotes by John Selden.

John Selden (1584-1654) was an English jurist, historian, and scholar who made lasting contributions to various fields of study during the 17th century. Born in Sussex, England, Selden attended the University of Oxford and later trained as a lawyer at Clifford's Inn in London. He quickly gained recognition for his sharp intellect and profound knowledge of ancient and foreign legal systems.

Throughout his career, Selden became renowned for his expertise in legal history and constitutional law. He produced influential works such as "History of Tithes" and "Mare Clausum" that explored the legal and historical aspects of tithe systems and maritime rights respectively. One of his most significant works, "Table Talk," was a compilation of his conversations with colleagues and friends, covering a wide range of topics from law and government to theology and linguistics. It remains a valuable source of intellectual insight into the cultural and political climate of his time.

In addition to his legal and historical pursuits, Selden was an avid bibliophile, amassing an extensive library of rare books and manuscripts. His collection formed the basis of the Selden Endowment at the Bodleian Library, enriching scholarly resources for generations to come. Selden's enduring legacy lies in his contributions to legal scholarship and his ability to shed new light on complex issues through rigorous research and analysis.

Of all actions of a man's life, his marriage does least conc

Of all actions of a man's life, his marriage does least concern other people, yet of all actions of our life 'Tis most meddled with by other people.

A glorious Church is like a magnificent feast; there is all

A glorious Church is like a magnificent feast; there is all the variety that may be, but every one chooses out a dish or two that he likes, and lets the rest alone: how glorious soever the Church is, every one chooses out of it his own religion, by which he governs himself, and lets the rest alone.

Wise people say nothing in dangerous times.

Wise people say nothing in dangerous times.

Old friends are best.

Old friends are best.

No man is the wiser for his learning it may administer matte

No man is the wiser for his learning it may administer matter to work in, or objects to work upon but wit and wisdom are born with a man.

Of all actions of a man's life, his marriage does least conc

Of all actions of a man's life, his marriage does least concern other people, yet of all actions of our life tis most meddled with by other people.

'Tis not seasonable to call a man traitor, that has an army

'Tis not seasonable to call a man traitor, that has an army at his heels.

Pleasures are all alike simply considered in themselves: he

Pleasures are all alike simply considered in themselves: he that hunts, or he that governs the commonwealth, they both please themselves alike, only we commend that, whereby we ourselves receive some benefit.

They that are against superstition oftentimes run into it of

They that are against superstition oftentimes run into it of the wrong side. If I wear all colors but black, then I am superstitious in not wearing black.

To preach long, loud, and Damnation, is the way to be cried

To preach long, loud, and Damnation, is the way to be cried up. We love a man that damns us, and we run after him again to save us.

Prayer should be short, without giving God Almighty reasons

Prayer should be short, without giving God Almighty reasons why he should grant this, or that; he knows best what is good for us.

In quoting of books, quote such authors as are usually read;

In quoting of books, quote such authors as are usually read; others you may read for your own satisfaction, but not name them.

A king is a thing men have made for their own sakes, for qui

A king is a thing men have made for their own sakes, for quietness sake. Just as in a family one man is appointed to buy the meat.

He that has not religion to govern his morality, is not a dr

He that has not religion to govern his morality, is not a dram better than my mastiff-dog; so long as you stroke him, and please him, and do not pinch him, he will play with you as finely as may be, he is a very good moral mastiff; but if you hurt him, he will fly in your face, and tear out your throat.

Pleasure is nothing else but the intermission of pain.

Pleasure is nothing else but the intermission of pain.

The world cannot be governed without juggling.

The world cannot be governed without juggling.

Old friends are best. King James used to call for his old sh

Old friends are best. King James used to call for his old shoes; they were easiest for his feet.

They that govern the most make the least noise.

They that govern the most make the least noise.

Philosophy is nothing but discretion.

Philosophy is nothing but discretion.

Idolatry is in a man's own thought, not in the opinion of an

Idolatry is in a man's own thought, not in the opinion of another.