For The Time is at Hand by Richard S. Lambert is an in-depth biography that chronicles the extraordinary life of Henry Wentworth Monk, a Canadian visionary whose prophetic ideas and relentless advocacy for world peace and a Jewish homeland in Palestine left an indelible mark on the 19th and 20th centuries. This book is a must-read for those interested in the intersection of history, religion, and international politics.

Overview

For The Time is at Hand digs into the life of Henry Wentworth Monk, a man whose contributions to the Zionist movement and global peace initiatives were groundbreaking yet remain relatively unknown. Monk, born in the backwoods of Canada, became a prominent advocate for the Jewish people and an early proponent of the concept that would later become the United Nations.

Early Life and Education

Monk was born on April 6, 1827, in March, Canada. His early years in the Canadian wilderness were idyllic, filled with the beauty of untouched nature and the simplicity of pioneer life. This upbringing instilled in him a profound appreciation for the natural world and a deep sense of spirituality.

In 1834, at the age of seven, Monk left his home to attend Christ's Hospital in London, a charitable school known for its rigorous academic and religious instruction. This transition from the wilds of Canada to the bustling metropolis of London was a significant upheaval for young Monk. His time at Christ's Hospital shaped his intellectual and spiritual development, instilling in him a lifelong commitment to social justice and moral integrity.

Advocate for a Jewish Homeland

Monk's advocacy for a Jewish homeland in Palestine was pioneering. Long before the term "Zionism" was coined, Monk recognized the importance of restoring the Jewish people to their ancestral land. He participated in early Zionist agricultural settlements in Palestine and tirelessly campaigned for the establishment of a national home for Jews.

In 1896, Monk wrote a significant letter to Lord Balfour, which influenced the thinking that eventually led to the Balfour Declaration in 1917. This declaration was a pivotal moment in the Zionist movement, marking official British support for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine.

Prophetic Insights and Visionary Ideas

Monk was known for his prophetic insights into world affairs. As early as 1858, he was formulating plans for global security and the prevention of war. His ideas were ahead of their time, anticipating the creation of an international organization to maintain world peace—a concept that would later become the United Nations.

Monk's vision extended beyond the Jewish question. He foresaw the necessity of an international court of justice and the establishment of a World State to ensure global stability. His advocacy for these ideas laid the groundwork for many modern international institutions.

Interaction with Abraham Lincoln

One of the most fascinating episodes in Monk's life was his interaction with President Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War. Monk traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with Lincoln and discuss his ideas for ending the war and promoting global peace.

According to a letter Monk wrote to his friend Chewett, Lincoln greeted him warmly upon learning he was Canadian and asked how he liked Washington. Monk took this opportunity to explain his mission, mentioning his connections with prominent figures like John Ruskin and Holman Hunt. He expressed hope that a way might be found to terminate the war before it led to further ruin.

Monk proposed that the North should compensate the South for emancipating its slaves, arguing that this approach would be less costly than continuing the war. He believed that once slavery was abolished, secession would naturally fade, leading to long-term social, intellectual, and moral progress. Lincoln nodded but questioned whether the South would return to the Union on these terms. Monk assured him that with the end of slavery, secession would lose its momentum.

Lincoln, known for his sense of humor, responded to Monk's serious proposal with a light-hearted remark: “I myself have a regard for the Jews. My chiropodist is a Jew, and he has so many times ‘put me upon my feet’ that I would have no objection to giving his countrymen ‘a leg up’” .

Despite the jest, Lincoln appreciated Monk's vision and shared his own positive views about Jews through this humorous comment. Lincoln emphasized the priority of ending the Civil War victoriously before pursuing other noble dreams, such as the restoration of the Jews to Palestine. He expressed hope for future American leadership in global humanitarian efforts: “We must first bring this dreadful war to a victorious conclusion...and then, Mr. Monk, we may begin again to see visions, and dream dreams. Then you will see what leadership America will show to the world!”.

Influences: Holman Hunt and John Ruskin

Monk was heavily influenced by artist Holman Hunt and the Oxford Professor John Ruskin. These connections significantly impacted their work and philosophical outlooks.

Holman Hunt

Holman Hunt, a renowned Victorian artist, found profound inspiration in Monk's ideas. Hunt's painting "The Scapegoat" is a powerful piece of spiritual propaganda, reflecting the intense themes of justice and redemption championed by Monk. The painting depicts a goat bearing the sins of the people, referencing the biblical ritual described in Leviticus 16:10. This imagery resonated with Monk's belief in the necessity of atonement for historical injustices committed against the Jews (p. 15).

Monk's and Hunt crafted a scheme that used religious paintings, and calls for justice,  highlighted the importance of addressing anti-Semitism and restoring Jewish rights as a foundation for global peace .

John Ruskin

John Ruskin, Oxford professor and a leading art critic and social philosopher, was not only a profound influence on Monk but also his mentor and supporter. Ruskin’s engagement with Monk went beyond mere friendship; he actively nurtured Monk’s ideas and helped bring them to the forefront of intellectual and artistic circles. Ruskin’s support was instrumental in validating Monk’s visionary thoughts and giving them a platform.

Ruskin’s quest to reconcile science with Christian revelation found a kindred spirit in Monk's prophetic vision. Together with Hunt, they engaged in a long-term campaign advocating for justice for the Jewish people and the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine.

Legacy and Historical Significance

**"For The Time is at Hand"** not only provides a detailed account of Monk's life but also situates his work within the broader context of 19th-century social and political movements. Monk’s ideas were often considered radical in his time, yet many of his predictions and proposals have been vindicated by later developments.

Vindication of Monk’s Ideas

Monk’s foresight into the need for an international organization to maintain global peace anticipated the creation of the United Nations. His early advocacy for a Jewish homeland was realized with the establishment of Israel in 1948, reflecting his enduring influence on Zionist thought.

The themes of justice and redemption that Monk championed remain relevant today. His belief in the necessity of atoning for historical injustices and promoting global cooperation continues to resonate in contemporary discussions on international relations and human rights.

Conclusion

For The Time is at Hand by Richard S. Lambert is an essential read for anyone interested in the intersections of history, religion, and international politics. The book offers a comprehensive and insightful look into the life of Henry Wentworth Monk, a man whose prophetic vision and relentless advocacy laid the groundwork for many of the 20th century’s significant social and political developments.

Monk’s interactions with figures like Abraham Lincoln, Holman Hunt, and John Ruskin underscore his wide-reaching influence and the profound impact of his ideas. Through detailed narrative and historical context, Lambert brings to life the story of a remarkable individual whose legacy continues to inspire and inform our understanding of global peace and justice.