# On the Death of the Rev. Mr. George Whitefield. 1770 explained — Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral

> Chapter companion for Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral by Phillis Wheatley.

## What happens

An elegy mourning the death of Reverend George Whitefield, celebrating his saintly life, powerful preaching, and selfless ministry. The poem depicts his ascent to heaven, his prayers for America and Africans, and calls for readers to find comfort in his eternal reward.

## Themes in this chapter

### Christian Redemption and Salvation

Central theme of the poem: Whitefield offers Jesus as the 'only good' and 'life-giving stream,' promising redemption and divine sonship to all believers.

### Death and the Afterlife

Whitefield's death is portrayed as a triumphant ascent to an immortal throne in heaven, with the tomb holding his dust until resurrection.

### Grief and Consolation

The poem expresses communal grief over Whitefield's loss but offers consolation through the vision of his eternal glory and the hope of reunion.

## Character check-ins

### George Whitefield

The deceased reverend, celebrated for his eloquence, devotion, and missionary work in America and among Africans.

### Phillis Wheatley

The poet, speaking as 'we' and 'Americans' to mourn Whitefield's death and honor his legacy.

### Jesus

Referenced as the 'Impartial Saviour' offered to all, including Africans, and as the source of redeeming blood.

## Key lines

> Hail, happy saint, on thine immortal throne, Possest of glory, life, and bliss unknown

Greetings, blessed saint, now seated on your eternal throne, filled with glory, life, and unimaginable joy.

_Opens the elegy by celebrating Whitefield's heavenly reward._

> Take him, ye Africans, he longs for you, Impartial Saviour is his title due: Wash’d in the fountain of redeeming blood, You shall be sons, and kings, and priests to God.

Accept him, Africans, for he desires your salvation; the Savior is truly impartial. Cleansed by his redeeming blood, you will become children of God, rulers, and priests.

_Highlights Whitefield's inclusive gospel message and the promise of spiritual equality._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poems_on_various_subjects_religious_and_moral_se/chapters/on-the-death-of-the-rev-mr-george-whitefield-1770
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poems_on_various_subjects_religious_and_moral_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poems_on_various_subjects_religious_and_moral_se/chapters