The Declaration of 1660

George Fox, etc.

DECLARATION 

FROM THE 

HARMLESS & INNOCENT 

People of GOD called

QUAKERS

Against all 

Plotters and Fighters in the World. 

For the removing of the Ground of Jealousy and Suspicion from both Magistrates and People in the Kingdoms, concerning Wars and Fightings. 

And also something in Answer to that Clause of the King’s late Proclamation, which mentions the QUAKERS, to clear them from the Plot and Fighting, which therein is mentioned, and for the clearing their innocency. 

This Declaration was given unto the King upon the 21st day of the llth Month, 1660.

Our Principle is, and our Practices have always been, to seek peace and ensue it, and to follow after righteousness and the knowledge of God, seeking the Good and Welfare, and doing that which tends to the peace of All. We know that Wars and Fightings proceed from the Lusts of men (as James 4: 1-3), out of which Lusts the Lord hath redeemed us....All bloody Principles & Practices we (as to our own particular) do utterly deny, with all outward Wars, and Strife, and Fightings with outward Weapons, for any end, or under any pretence whatsoever. And this is our Testimony to the whole World....

Read an analysis by Paul Buckley and a link to the full text of the Declaration at www.friendsjournal.org/2008066/