End of the World

June 18, 2007 - 11:32 AM by Stephanie

Is the world going to grind to a halt in 53 years? The answer’s up for grabs.

But according to modern science father Isaac Newton’s calculations, it’ll all end in 2060.

Newton’s original theological and mystical writings are on display as of today in the “Newton’s Secrets” exhibit at Hebrew University’s National Library in Jerusalem. This is the first time the manuscripts, in Israel since 1969, are being presented to the public.

According to this Haaretz article…

One of the most intersting manuscripts is a letter from 1704, in which Newton calculates that the world will end in 2060, based on a phrase from Daniel 12:7 “for a time, times, and a half.” Newton interpreted this phrase as meaning 1,260 years would pass from the establishment of the Holy Roman Empire by Charlemagne in 800, until the End of Days.

How did Newton’s writings end up at Hebrew University? According to exhibit curator Professor Yemima Ben-Menachem, his heirs weren’t interested in his theological writings so Sotheby’s auctioned them off in 1936. They changed hands a few times and eventually were bequeathed to the State of Israel.

Our gain.

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