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Benevolence and Bondage: Jonathan Edwards, Slavery, Race, and the Paradox of Spiritual Equality
Hardcover
Religion General Colonial Period (1600-1775)General Christianity
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ISBN13: 9781643365640
Publisher: University of South Carolina Press
Published: Jun 25 2026
Pages: 234
Weight: 1.04
Height: 0.91 Width: 6.27 Depth: 9.28
Language: English
How Jonathan Edwards's theology of equality laid foundations for early American abolitionism
In this groundbreaking book, John T. Lowe reexamines Jonathan Edwards's legacy by focusing on the intersections among slavery, race, and theology. Connecting seemingly disparate aspects of Edwards's life and thought, Lowe offers a powerful new interpretation of one of America's most influential theologians.
Although Edwards was an enslaver, his theological writings--especially his concept of civil-spiritual dualism--provided impetus for some of his followers to embrace abolitionism. Through close analysis of sermons, letters, and personal writings, Lowe reveals the tensions and transformations within Edwards's thought. The theological, social, and political implications of this revivalist preacher's ideas extended beyond New England and shaped debates across the early American republic. Benevolence and Bondage challenges familiar narratives about Edwardsean thought and the theological roots of the antislavery movement. Bridging history and theology, Lowe contributes significantly to the Edwards renaissance and confronts uncomfortable truths at the heart of the American colonial project.
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