Thomas Mifflin was raised in a Quaker family, but he was later expelled from the Religious Society of Friends due to his military service during the American Revolutionary War.
Thomas Mifflin's Religious Background
Thomas Mifflin's family had a deep-rooted connection to the Quaker faith, having been members of the Religious Society of Friends for four generations. This upbringing meant that Mifflin was immersed in Quaker principles, which historically emphasized peace, non-violence, and simplicity.
Expulsion from the Religious Society of Friends
A pivotal moment in Mifflin's religious affiliation occurred when he chose to join the Continental Army. The Quaker faith holds a strong pacifistic doctrine, meaning its adherents are committed to non-violence and typically do not participate in warfare. Mifflin's decision to engage in military service directly contradicted these core tenets.
Key aspects of his religious journey include:
- Family Heritage: His lineage was deeply Quaker, spanning four generations.
- Core Beliefs: Quakers adhere to pacifism, opposing war and violence.
- Decision to Serve: Mifflin joined the Continental Army during a period of significant conflict.
- Consequence: His military involvement led to his formal expulsion from the Religious Society of Friends, as it directly contravened their doctrines.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Family Religion | Quaker (Religious Society of Friends) |
| Generations | Four generations of Quakers |
| Reason for Expulsion | Joined the Continental Army |
| Conflicting Doctrine | Quaker pacifism vs. military involvement |
| Status After Expulsion | No longer formally recognized by the Quaker community |
Impact of His Military Service on His Faith
Mifflin's choice to serve in the military, despite his Quaker upbringing, demonstrated a prioritization of the revolutionary cause over the strict tenets of his ancestral faith. While he was born into the Quaker tradition and initially identified with it, his actions led to a formal separation from the organized religious body. This meant that while he carried the influence of his Quaker upbringing, he was no longer an active member of the Religious Society of Friends after his military involvement began.
