To preserve a man alive in the midst of so many chances and hostilities, is as great a miracle as to create him

To preserve a man alive in the midst of so many chances and hostilities, is as great a miracle as to create him

Jeremy Taylor, a 17th-century Anglican bishop and theologian, was known for his profound insights into the human condition and the challenges of life. One of his most famous quotes, “To preserve a man alive in the midst of so many chances and hostilities, is as great a miracle as to create him,” speaks to the fragility of human existence and the constant threats that we face in our daily lives.

In Taylor’s time, life was precarious and uncertain. Disease, war, famine, and natural disasters were constant threats to survival. People lived in fear of sudden death or calamity, and the idea of being able to navigate through these dangers unscathed was seen as nothing short of miraculous.

Taylor’s quote also reflects his belief in the divine providence and the idea that God plays a role in preserving human life. He believed that every moment of our existence is a gift from a higher power, and that we should be grateful for the opportunity to experience life in all its complexity and beauty.

The quote can also be interpreted as a commentary on the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the many challenges and adversities that we face, we have an innate ability to persevere and overcome. Taylor believed that the human capacity for survival and adaptation was a testament to our strength and resilience as a species.

In today’s world, where we are faced with a myriad of threats and uncertainties, Taylor’s words still ring true. The miracle of being able to navigate through life’s challenges and emerge unscathed is something that should not be taken for granted. It is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment that we have.