Richard Graves (theologian) facts for kids

Richard Graves (born 1763, died 1829) was an important Irish church leader, a smart scholar, and a writer. He was known for his book called Graves on the Pentateuch. He earned a special degree called a Doctor of Divinity. He was also one of the top seven professors at Trinity College, Dublin, a member of the Royal Irish Academy, a professor of Greek, and the Dean of Ardagh. He was the younger brother of Thomas Ryder Graves, who was also a Dean.

Early Life and Family

Richard Graves was born on October 1, 1763, in Kilfannan, near Kilmallock, County Limerick, Ireland. He was the youngest son of Reverend James Graves, who was a well-liked and educated church leader. His mother was Jane Ryder.

The Graves family from County Limerick was very talented. They originally came from England. Many members of the family became scholars, church leaders, and famous writers. Some well-known writers from this family include Robert Graves. Another part of the family became important admirals in the Royal Navy.

His Career and Studies

When Richard was young, his father sent him to Dublin to live and study with his older brother, Thomas. In 1780, he started studying at Trinity College, Dublin. He was a very good student and became a scholar two years later. He earned several degrees, including his B.A. in 1784 and his D.D. in 1799. In 1786, he became a successful professor, known for being very popular with his students.

In 1797, Richard Graves gave a series of important lectures about the Jewish religion. These lectures were later published as his most famous work, Graves on the Pentateuch, in 1807. This book was highly praised and was studied by students at many universities, even in places like Calcutta. People said his book was very helpful and showed his great knowledge.

In 1799, he became one of the seven senior professors at Trinity College. He held many important teaching roles there, including Professor of Oratory and Regius Professor of Greek (Dublin). In 1819, he became the professor of divinity, a role he kept until he died. He worked to make improvements in the divinity school.

Richard Graves also served in several church positions. In 1801, he became a leader at St. Michael's Church, Dublin, where he worked hard, especially helping the poor. He was known as a popular speaker. In 1814, he became the Dean of Ardagh. He was a dedicated church minister who was known for his learning and kindness.

After his wife died in 1827, Richard Graves became ill. He passed away on March 29, 1829, at his home in Raheny.

People remembered Richard Graves as a man with good judgment, a smart mind, and a kind heart. His portrait can still be seen at Trinity College, Dublin. In 1866, a special stained glass window was placed in the college chapel to remember him. One of his sons, Richard Hastings Graves, collected all his father's writings and published them in 1840. Richard Graves was buried in Donnybrook Cemetery.

Family Life

On August 1, 1787, Richard Graves married Eliza Mary Drought. Her father, Reverend James Drought, was also a professor at Trinity College, Dublin. Richard and Eliza lived in Dublin on Harcourt Street and also had a home in Raheny.

They had nine children. Some of their famous descendants include Robert James Graves (a well-known doctor), Sir Richard Graves MacDonnell (a colonial governor), and Cyril Connolly (a writer).

His Books

Here are some of the books Richard Graves wrote:

• An Essay on the Character of the Apostles and Evangelists (1798)
• Hints on a Plan for Advancing Religious Education
• Lectures on the Four Last Books of the Pentateuch (2 volumes, 1807)
• The First Prælection delivered as Professor of Divinity by Richard Graves (1815)
• Select Scriptural Proofs of the Trinity, in four Discourses, with Notes and Illustrations (1819)
• Calvinistic Predestination Repugnant to the General Tenor of Scripture; in a series of discourses (1825)
• Sermons on Practical Subjects (1830)