Ferenc David (1510 – 1579)
Also known as Francis David and Frances David, was the founder of the Unitarian Church in Transylvania, and highly influential in encouraging King John II Sigismund Zápolya of Hungary to issue the Edict of Torda (1568), also known as the Patent of Toleration.
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There is no greater mindlessness and absurdity than to force conscience and the spirit with external power, when only their creator has authority for them.
We need not think alike to love alike.
The Unitarian Church in Transylvania still survives on the thought that may be regarded as part of our historical heritage, first uttered in 1568 at the Parliament in Torda. There and then, under the influence of Ferenc David, for the first time in the world, tolerance and the freedom of conscience were proclaimed. This edict became the basis of Transylvanian spirituality. It has survived centuries — and is still vivid — due to the recognition of interdependence and a correct interpretation of the word tolerance. When, in the 18th century, the very existence of our Church was in danger, after the peril disappeared a saying spread among people: "they love one another as the Unitarians do."
Neither the sword of popes, nor the cross, nor the image of death — nothing will halt the march of truth. I wrote what I felt and that is what I preached with trusting spirit. I am convinced that after my destruction the teachings of false prophets will collapse.
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