Richard Arnald facts for kids

Richard Arnald (born around 1698 or 1700 – died September 4, 1756) was an important English church leader and expert on the Bible. He was known for his detailed writings about religious texts.

Richard Arnald's Early Life and Education

Richard Arnald was born in London. He went to school at Bishop Stortford School. In 1714, he continued his studies at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, which is a famous university.

After earning his first degree, called a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), he moved to Emmanuel College. There, he became a "fellow" on June 24, 1720. A fellowship meant he was a senior member of the college, often involved in teaching or research. He also earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree.

While at Emmanuel College, Richard Arnald wrote some poems about the death of King George I. He also gave a sermon, which is a religious speech, at a school event in Bishop Stortford in 1726.

His Work as a Clergyman

In 1733, Richard Arnald became the priest of a church in Thurcaston, a village in Leicestershire. Later, he was also made a "prebendary" of Lincoln. This was another important role in the church.

Richard Arnald passed away on September 4, 1756. He was buried in the church in Thurcaston. His wife died many years later, in 1782.

Richard Arnald's Writings and Books

Richard Arnald is best remembered for his detailed writings about the Apocryphal books of the Bible. These are a group of texts that are part of some versions of the Bible but not others.

He published a sermon in 1746 called The Parable of the Cedar and the Thistle exemplified in the great Victory at Culloden. This sermon talked about a big battle that happened. In 1760, another sermon he wrote was published.

His most famous work was a series of commentaries, which are like detailed explanations, on the Apocryphal books. These books included:

• The Book of Wisdom (published in 1744)
• Ecclesiasticus (published in 1748)
• Tobit, Judith, Baruch, the History of Susannah, and Bel and the Dragon (all published in 1752)

He also wrote discussions about the books of Esdras and Maccabees. His work was later put together and published again in 1822 by John Rogers Pitman.

About His Son, William Arnald

Richard Arnald had a son named William Arnald. William also went to Cambridge University and became a fellow at St John's College, Cambridge in 1767. He was a head tutor there in 1768.

William Arnald became a chaplain (a religious advisor) to a bishop in 1775. He also became a precentor at Lichfield Cathedral, which is a role involving leading church music.

Because of his good connections, William Arnald was chosen in 1776 to be a teacher for the young princes, Prince of Wales and the Duke of York. He also became a canon of Windsor, another important church position.

Sadly, William Arnald became unwell in 1782 and remained so until he died on August 5, 1802.