Humphrey Hody, English scholar and theologian (b. 1659)

Humphrey Hody (1659 – 20 January 1707) was a distinguished English scholar and theologian whose profound contributions significantly influenced classical learning, biblical criticism, and ecclesiastical history during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. His academic rigour and critical approach to ancient texts marked him as a pivotal figure in intellectual discourse of his era.

Early Life and Academic Journey

Born in 1659, Humphrey Hody began his impressive academic career at Wadham College, Oxford, matriculating in 1676. He later transferred to University College, Oxford, where he continued his studies and became a Fellow. His intellectual prowess quickly became evident, paving the way for a career dedicated to scholarship and religious service.

Hody held several prominent positions during his lifetime, reflecting his esteemed standing within the academic and ecclesiastical establishments. These included:

• Regius Professor of Greek at Oxford University, a highly prestigious academic appointment that underscored his expertise in classical languages.
• Archdeacon of Oxford, a senior clerical position within the Church of England, highlighting his theological responsibilities and administrative role.
• Rector of Monks Risborough, Buckinghamshire, further cementing his pastoral and ecclesiastical duties.

Key Contributions to Scholarship and Biblical Criticism

Hody's scholarly work was extensive, but he is perhaps most renowned for his critical examination of the Septuagint, the ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible. His meticulous philological analysis challenged long-held traditional narratives, setting new standards for biblical scholarship.

Deconstructing the Septuagint's Origin

In 1684, Hody published his groundbreaking work, Contra Historiam Aristeae de LXX Interpretibus Dissertatio (A Dissertation Against the History of Aristeas Concerning the Seventy Interpreters). In this treatise, he critically debunked the legendary account of the Septuagint's creation found in the Letter of Aristeas. This ancient text claimed that the Septuagint was miraculously translated into Greek by 72 scholars in 72 days in Alexandria under divine inspiration, a story widely accepted for centuries. Hody's incisive analysis, based on historical and textual inconsistencies, demonstrated that the Letter of Aristeas was a later, inauthentic document and that the Septuagint evolved over a longer period, challenging the notion of its complete divine inspiration.

He expanded upon this earlier work in his comprehensive 1705 publication, De Bibliorum Textibus Originalibus, Versionibus Graecis et Latina Vulgata Libri IV (On the Original Texts of the Bible, Greek Versions, and the Latin Vulgate, Four Books). This monumental work, often referred to as the Prolegomena to the Septuagint, presented a more detailed and scholarly treatment of the Septuagint's history and textual variants. It became an indispensable resource for subsequent generations of biblical scholars, solidifying his reputation as a pioneer in critical textual analysis.

Theological Engagement and Ecclesiastical History

As a theologian, Humphrey Hody was deeply involved in the significant ecclesiastical debates of his time, particularly those arising from the Glorious Revolution of 1688. This period saw the accession of William III and Mary II and the subsequent Oath of Allegiance to the new monarchs, which led to the Non-Juring schism.

Hody firmly supported the legitimacy of the new bishops appointed under William III, arguing against the separation from the established Church of England by those clergy who refused to swear allegiance to the new monarchy (known as Non-Jurors). His influential pamphlet, The Unreasonableness of a Separation from the New Bishops (1691), was a key contribution to this highly charged theological and political controversy, advocating for church unity and obedience to the de facto government.

Beyond contemporary controversies, Hody also made lasting contributions to ecclesiastical history. His work A History of English Councils and Convocations, and of the Clergy's Sitting in Parliament (1701) provided valuable insights into the historical development of church governance and the role of the clergy within the English parliamentary system. This detailed historical account remains a significant resource for understanding the constitutional and ecclesiastical history of England.

Legacy

Humphrey Hody's legacy is defined by his commitment to rigorous scholarship and his unwavering pursuit of historical and textual accuracy. His pioneering work in biblical criticism, particularly regarding the Septuagint, laid essential groundwork for modern textual studies. Furthermore, his contributions to ecclesiastical history and his engagement in contemporary theological debates underscore his multifaceted role as a leading intellectual figure of his age.

Frequently Asked Questions about Humphrey Hody

Who was Humphrey Hody?

Humphrey Hody (1659 – 20 January 1707) was a distinguished English scholar and theologian. He was known for his critical biblical scholarship, particularly on the Septuagint, and his significant contributions to ecclesiastical history and contemporary theological debates.

What was Humphrey Hody's most notable academic contribution?

Hody's most significant academic contribution was his critical analysis of the Septuagint. His work, especially Contra Historiam Aristeae de LXX Interpretibus Dissertatio (1684) and De Bibliorum Textibus Originalibus (1705), challenged the traditional accounts of its origin and established a foundation for modern biblical textual criticism.

What was Humphrey Hody's role in English theology?

As a theologian, Hody played a role in the Non-Juring schism following the Glorious Revolution. He wrote in favour of the new bishops appointed under William III, advocating for church unity and against separation in works such as The Unreasonableness of a Separation from the New Bishops (1691).

Where did Humphrey Hody receive his education?

Humphrey Hody received his education at Oxford University, initially at Wadham College and later becoming a Fellow at University College.