""The Rule and Exercises of Holy Living and The Rule and Exercises of Holy Dying"" is a religious book authored by Jeremy Taylor, an Anglican bishop and theologian in the 17th century. The book is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on how to live a holy life and the second part on how to prepare for death. In the first part, Taylor discusses various aspects of holy living, such as the importance of prayer, self-examination, and the practice of virtues such as humility and charity. He also addresses practical issues such as how to deal with temptation and how to maintain a healthy balance between the spiritual and physical aspects of life.The second part of the book deals with the topic of death, which Taylor views as a natural and inevitable part of life. He offers advice on how to prepare for death, including the importance of repentance, forgiveness, and the proper disposition of one's possessions. He also discusses the nature of the afterlife and the hope of eternal life.Throughout the book, Taylor draws on biblical teachings and the writings of other Christian thinkers to provide guidance and inspiration for readers seeking to live a holy life and prepare for death. The book has been widely read and influential in Christian circles for centuries and continues to be a valuable resource for those seeking spiritual guidance.Two Volumes in One.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
You have to wade through a lot of monumental prose and 'miserable sinner' theology to discover some beautiful and remarkable insights. Jeremy is verbose but likable.
These are some of those old books that many people have heard of but not read, quoted, but not studied. That is a shame. There is a lot of wise advice in this volume published by Seedbed Publishing.
It is actually two separate, slim books done in one volume. The second book, on Holy Dying, lays out thoughts for the ill, dying, and those who minister to them. Rev Taylor must have really admired Cyrus the Great, because he often tells stories about Cyrus dying in ancient Persia.
Here is a typical quote from Taylor; "Be content that the time that was formerly spent in prayer be now spent in vomiting, and carelessness, and attendance; since God has pleased that it should be so, it does not become us to think hard thoughts concerning it." Odd words, but down to earth and practical for a very ill person. Typical of this volume. Read it slowly.