Definition

Proper noun: * Jonathan Edwards: An American theologian and preacher of the 18th century. He was a central figure in the religious revival movement known as the Great Awakening. His sermons and writings are noted for their intellectual rigor, powerful imagery, and focus on the sovereignty of God, sin, and redemption.

Usage

• Jonathan Edwards is used as a proper noun to refer to the historical figure. It is typically used in academic, historical, or religious contexts.
  • The theology of Jonathan Edwards continues to be studied in universities and seminaries.
  • The sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" is the most famous work by Jonathan Edwards.

Advanced Usage

• Edwardsian (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of the theology, ideas, or style of Jonathan Edwards.
  • The scholar presented a paper on Edwardsian concepts of religious affection.

Variants and Related Words

• The Great Awakening: The period of religious revival in the American colonies during the 1730s and 1740s, with which Jonathan Edwards is closely associated.
• New Light: A term for the revivalist, pro-Awakening faction, often contrasted with the "Old Light" traditionalists. Edwards is considered a leading New Light intellectual.

Synonyms

• Preacher
• Theologian
• Divine (archaic term for a theologian)

Related Phrases

• "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God": The title of Jonathan Edwards's most famous and frequently studied sermon, delivered in 1741.
  • Students often read "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" in American literature classes.

Noun

1. American theologian whose sermons and writings stimulated a period of renewed interest in religion in America (1703-1758)