The Society of Friends (more commonly known as Quakers) began as a loose group of religious thinkers and seekers in seventeenth century England. Since then, they have spread slowly and quietly across the globe. But what do they stand for?
Quakers believe in the doctrine of continual revelation. So they don't assume that the word of God has been written once and for all, and must be followed to the letter. Rather, they urge each person to seek within themselves for their own spark of God, and build a personal and living relationship with what they find. God is sometimes called the Light, or the Truth - Quakers are reticent about giving names or words, or definitions, to what is essential completely indescribable. So although most Quakers acknowledge the Bible as a sacred book, they also recognise that other books and writing hold other people's very real search for meaning and truth as well. Many Quakers own themselves to be Christian. But not all Christians accept Quakers. Quakers believe there are many paths to God - they will never come knocking on your door, seeking to convert you. You're already saved, whether you realise it or not.
The Red Book
In the UK, Quakers hold one particular text dear to their hearts. This is the Red Book, or more properly, Quaker faith and practice: the book of Christian discipline of the Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) in Britain. It is revised and rewritten with each generation if they feel the need. It begins with “Advices and Queries” which is the closest that Quakers get to a list of rules. They are short paragraphs asking the reader to reflect on certain aspects of their life. Contrary to popular belief, for example, Quakers are not forbidden alcohol, but rather they are admonished to read these words: “In view of the harm done by the use of alcohol, tobacco and other habit-forming drugs, consider whether you should limit your use of them or refrain from using them altogether. Remember that any use of alcohol or drugs may impair judgment and put both the user and others in danger.” Then the book intersperses the writings and reflections of many people from the 1650s onwards with instructions for the conduct of church affairs, history and facts. But there is no list of beliefs, no set of regulations, no creed. Everyone is on a personal journey, though we may share the road with others.
Simplicity
There are, however, three generally accepted core values. One of these is simplicity. This is reflected in the meetings for worship - quiet affairs in calm rooms - it's reflected in appearance - a general shunning of vanity and shallow glamour - and in the mode of life in general. Quakers are advised to avoid being caught up in the conspicuous consumption so commonly seen in modern society.
Integrity
This is also called Honesty, but Integrity goes a little further than simple telling the truth. It is possible to tell no lies but lack personal integrity. This tale illustrates the difference: consider the Second World War in Europe. A Quaker family is sheltering a Jewish man. The Nazis knock at the door and ask if anyone else is within. Mere honesty would demand that they answer “yes…” but integrity leads them to answer “no.”
Equality
From the very first days of Quakerism, everyone was seen as equal, regardless of gender, race or class. Many Quakers were imprisoned, tortured and killed for these beliefs, so radical in their time. God, they argued, was in everyone. And so they responded to everyone equally, acknowledging the same divine spark in all they met. This continues even today, with Quakers bearing witness across the world to those who still suffer under the yoke of inequality.
Quakers Today
Quakers are still around. In some parts of the world they are numerous and vociferous; in other areas they are quietly working behind the scenes for social justice and peace. Some Quakers don't consider themselves religious and they will never come to preach at you; but their meetings are open to all, if you want some quiet space to sit and reflect. The core values that they follow are worth us all striving for. In matters of religion, they say, it's not where you worship or what you claim to be… “Let your life speak”.
