Definition of

Quaker

Quakers protesting for the liberation of Palestine

Quakers reject violence in all its forms.

A member of a religious community that emerged in English territory in the middle of the 17th century is known as a Quaker . The doctrine of the Quakers, also known as Quakers , is characterized by lacking ecclesiastical hierarchies and by not contemplating the development of external cults.

The term comes from the English word quaker , which can be translated as “trembling.” This name is linked to the fact that, in their origins, Quakers expressed the fervor of their faith through shaking and trembling .

God is in each one

Quakers reject the need for priests, believing that God was inside every human being . This is what the Englishman George Fox , the founder of the Quaker movement, believed, who in 1647 claimed to have received a divine call when passing in front of a church.

With that vision he launched the Religious Society of Friends and began to preach his doctrine. The Quakers were persecuted by the British authorities and many decided to escape to America , with which this religious belief began to spread throughout the world.

The Quakers, in short, constitute a Protestant and dissident Christian group . They are pacifists, they feel that the Holy Spirit guides them and they maintain the existence of a direct link with God , without intermediaries.

The postulates of the Religious Society of Friends are brought together in a group known as the Quaker testimonies . Quakers, on the other hand, often gather together in so-called worship meetings .

Quaker testimonies

Quaker testimonies are principles and practices that Quakers seek to incorporate into their daily lives, as they are an important part of their religious practice and ethics. These are not fixed dogmas, but rather flexible guides that can vary according to different Quaker branches and communities. However, there are common testimonies that are usually recognized by most Quakers, and these are:

  • Peace – Quakers are known for their strong commitment to peace. They seek to resolve conflicts peacefully and reject violence in all its forms, including war and domestic violence;
  • equality : of all human beings, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation or any other characteristic. This is reflected in their practice of making decisions collectively and in their rejection of titles or hierarchical ranks;
  • Integrity : They value honesty, sincerity and consistency in their actions. They want to live according to their beliefs and testimonies , and they strive for integrity in all areas of their lives;
  • Simplicity : Quakers pursue a simple life without excess. They seek to avoid consumerism and the desire to accumulate material wealth, focusing instead on human relationships, care for the environment and the search for spirituality;
  • community – aim to support each other, share resources and work together for the common well-being.

Quaker Oats Company

Quakers are often associated with the Quaker Oats Company , a company famous for its oats whose logo features a man dressed in the attire that members of this group used to wear in ancient times. The company, however, has no formal link with the Religious Society of Friends .

Oat flakes in glass jars

The Quaker company markets rolled oats and other cereals.

Quaker oats are sold in flake and flake form . It is known for its quality and has become a staple in many homes around the world. The company also manufactures and markets other oat products, such as instant flour, pancake mixes, and cereals.

In 2001, Quaker Oats Company was acquired by PepsiCo , one of the largest food and beverage companies in the world. The transaction allowed for further expansion and distribution of Quaker products globally.