Three Physico-Theological Discourses.
London: Sam Smith, 1693. Second edition. Concerning I the Positive CHAOS, and the Creation of the World. II. The General DELUGE, its Causes and Effects. III. The Dissolution of the WORLD, and Future Conflagration.
The Second Edition Corrected, very much Enlarged, and Illustrated with Copper-plates. A natural history in which Ray's discussion of the Noachian deluge reveals his considerable knowledge of paleontology and geology. "On the much-debated issue of 'formed stones,' he supported the view that they were generally organic remains, one of the results of divine intervention at the Deluge" (DNB).
Numerous annotations in period ink pertaining to the inability of man to understand the workings of a higher power: "the hidden Engine is as far beyond the Abilities of Man to Comprehend" ... "It is no doubt most wise that the Divine Communication has been withheld for how could the Powers of Man comprehend Truths so sublime and wondrous".
Small 8vo, iv, 406pp, ads (ii), 4 copper engraved plates. Complete, frontis was added in the third edition of 1713. Covers lacking; volume is text only, with pages from 387 on detached. Pages are toned and chipped at edges. As is. Wing R409. OCLC 28434236 records 6 copies. Keynes 82. As is. Good. Item #12172
Price: $750.00