Joanna Southcott
Joanna Southcott
#### A 19th-Century Prophetess with a Lasting Impact
Full Name and Common Aliases
Joanna Southcott was born as Joanna Southcott on November 12, 1750. She is often referred to by her alias, The Maid of Ipswich, which reflects the location where she claimed to have received divine revelations.
Birth and Death Dates
November 12, 1750 - May 27, 1814
Nationality and Profession(s)
English prophetess, mystic, and writer. Joanna Southcott's life was marked by her spiritual experiences and writings, which drew attention from both the general public and prominent figures of her time.
Early Life and Background
Joanna Southcott was born in Glastonbury, England, to a family with strong Methodist connections. Her early life was influenced by her mother's influence, who encouraged Joanna's spiritual pursuits. The young Joanna reported experiencing vivid dreams and visions from an early age, which were said to be prophetic in nature.
As she matured, Joanna began to channel these visions into written form, eventually gaining recognition for her supposed prophecies. Her writings drew the attention of prominent figures such as William Blake, who saw her work as a manifestation of divine inspiration.
Major Accomplishments
Joanna Southcott's life was marked by several significant events that garnered attention and sparked controversy:
Prophetic Writings: Joanna produced numerous prophetic works, including The Book of the Sealed Portion. Her writings foretold an impending apocalypse and a new era for humanity.
The Maid of Ipswich: This was one of her most celebrated roles, in which she claimed to have received divine guidance from God. Her visions were believed by many to be evidence of her prophetic abilities.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Joanna's notable works include:
The Book of the Sealed Portion: A collection of prophecies that was widely read and discussed during her lifetime.
The Second Coming: In this work, Joanna proclaimed herself to be a vessel for divine revelation. She claimed to have been chosen by God to guide humanity through an impending era of great change.
Impact and Legacy
Joanna Southcott's influence can still be seen today:
Countercultural Movement: Her vision of a new world order resonated with many who felt disillusioned with mainstream society.
Women's Rights: Joanna was an advocate for women's rights, believing that they had been unfairly marginalized throughout history.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Joanna Southcott remains widely quoted and remembered due to her:
Visionary Prophesies: Her writings continue to captivate readers with their vivid descriptions of future events.
Spiritual Significance: As a prophetess, Joanna's life serves as an example of faith and conviction in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, Joanna Southcott was a remarkable figure who left an indelible mark on history through her prophetic writings and unwavering commitment to her spiritual calling. Her legacy endures as a testament to the enduring power of faith and vision.
Quotes by Joanna Southcott
If they can prove that I am wrong by that time, I will give it up to their wisdom, but not after to any one’s judgment, till I see the end of another year; for the Lord will begin with a new century; and I will see what he will do, before I will hearken to any man’s judgment.
New-Year’s Day arriving, and the ministers, to whom I wrote, remaining silent, I consider their silence as evidence, that they cannot prove what I said not to be from the Lord, and have therefore published as I was directed.
The end of all things is at hand; that Satan’s kingdom will be destroyed, and Satan chained down for a thousand years, and Christ’s kingdom established upon earth.
The end of all things is at hand; that Satan's kingdom will be destroyed, and Satan chained down for a thousand years, and Christ's kingdom established upon earth.
New-Year's Day arriving, and the ministers, to whom I wrote, remaining silent, I consider their silence as evidence, that they cannot prove what I said not to be from the Lord, and have therefore published as I was directed.
At the end of 1795 and beginning of 1796, I was ordered to write to the Church ministers.
