The End of the World · Chapter
Next Year explained
This chapter examines the two broad temporal expectations regarding the end of the world: that it is near at hand, and that it is very far off.
What happens
This chapter examines the two broad temporal expectations regarding the end of the world: that it is near at hand, and that it is very far off. It traces the historical and religious roots of the belief in an imminent end, from early Christians and Hebrews through figures like Archbishop Ussher, and discusses how fear, revealed religion, and reason all supported the near expectation. The chapter also contrasts this with the modern scientific view that favors a distant end, questioning the principle of probability on which that view rests.
Themes in this chapter
Eschatology and Prophecy
The chapter deeply explores the belief in an imminent end of the world, rooted in Christian prophecy and Jewish apocalyptic tradition.
Time and Eternity
Discusses the tension between literal time (generations, years) and the eternal perspective, as seen in Jesus' vision transcending time.
Optimism vs. Pessimism
Contrasts the fear-driven near expectation with the modern optimistic postponement of the end, questioning the permanence of the Optimist Age.
Uncertainty of Knowledge
Questions the principle of probability and the logical basis of scientific predictions, suggesting that matter may be anarchical and unpredictable.
Characters to notice
- Jesus Christ
Quoted as saying 'this generation shall not pass till all these things be done'; his eschatological words are analyzed across the four gospels.
- Paul of Tarsus
Cited for writing 'The ends of the world are come'.
- Tsar Alexander
Mentioned as being influenced by Juliana von Krüdener to inspire the Unholy Alliance.
- William Miller
Not directly mentioned in excerpts, but Adventist denominations in America are referenced as avoiding fixed dates.
- Buddha
Referenced in the context of the eightfold path and the number 8.
- Noah
Not directly mentioned in excerpts, but the flood is implied in the discussion of portents.
- Daniel
Not directly mentioned in excerpts, but the apocalyptic tradition is referenced.
- Julius Africanus
Not directly mentioned in excerpts, but early Christian chronologists are implied.
Key passages
“Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass till all these things be done.”
Jesus assured his listeners that the current generation would still be alive when all the prophesied events occur.
This quote is central to the debate about whether Jesus expected an imminent end.
“The ends of the world are come”
Paul declared that the final age of the world had already arrived.
Reflects the early Christian belief in the nearness of the end.
“The end of all things is at hand”
Peter urged that the conclusion of everything is imminent.
Another expression of the early Christian expectation of an immediate end.
“Behold, I come quickly.”
John records Jesus saying that his return will happen soon.
From the Book of Revelation, reinforcing the theme of an imminent second coming.
“The world was created in 4004 BC”
Archbishop Ussher fixed the date of creation at 4004 BC.
This precise chronology supported the belief that the world's history was only about 6,000 years old.
