Jacob Arminius facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jacobus Arminius
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Jacobus Arminius (1620) by David Bailly
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| Born | October 10, 1560 |
| Died | October 19, 1609 (aged 49) |
| Nationality | Dutch |
| Education | Leiden University |
| Occupation | Pastor, theologian |
| Spouse(s) | Lijsbet Reael |
| Theological work | |
| Era | Reformation |
| Tradition or movement | Arminianism |
| Main interests | Soteriology |
| Notable ideas | Prevenient grace |
Jacobus Arminius (born October 10, 1560 – died October 19, 1609) was a famous Dutch theologian. His real name was Jakob Harmenszoon. He taught about God at Leiden University from 1603 until he passed away in 1609. His ideas became very important and influenced a group called the Remonstrants in the Netherlands.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Jacobus Arminius was born in Oudewater, a town in Utrecht. Sadly, he became an orphan when he was still young. His father, Herman, died, leaving his mother to care for their small children. Later, in 1575, his mother was killed during a terrible event called the Spanish massacre at Oudewater.
After these sad events, a pastor named Theodorus Aemilius adopted Arminius. He sent him to school in Utrecht. However, Theodorus Aemilius also died in 1574. Then, Rudolph Snellius helped Arminius. He took him to Marburg and made it possible for him to study theology at the University of Leiden. Arminius studied there from 1576 to 1582.
Becoming a Pastor
In 1587, Arminius was asked to become a pastor in Amsterdam. He gave sermons on Sundays and during the week. After being tested by the church leaders, he was ordained in 1588. This means he was officially made a minister. He became known as a very good preacher and a dedicated pastor.
In 1590, he married Lijsbet Reael. He was also asked to help organize the education system in Amsterdam, and he did a great job.
Helping During the Plague
Arminius showed how dedicated he was in 1602. A terrible plague swept through Amsterdam. Many people were scared to go into homes where people were sick. But Arminius bravely went into these infected houses. He gave water to the sick and helped their neighbors get money to care for them.
Influence on Theology
Arminius returned to Leiden University in 1603 to teach theology. He taught there until he died in 1609. He wrote many books and papers about his ideas.
His theological views became very important. Later, John Wesley (1703–1791), who started the Methodist movement, strongly supported Arminius's ideas. Because of John and Charles Wesley, Arminian theology became very popular, especially in the United States. Today, most Methodists still follow Arminian beliefs.
Images for kids
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Jacobus Arminius
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17th-century portrait of Arminius from the Dutch portrait collection of the Andover-Harvard Theological Library, Harvard Divinity School. From an engraving by J. C. Philips and J. G. Meet.
See also
In Spanish: Jacobo Arminio para niños
