Meaning: This quote, attributed to the philosopher William Ames, addresses the question of the world's existence and the ordering of things. The statement suggests that the world has not existed for eternity and that its current state is part of a specific dispensation and ordering of things. This quote touches on philosophical and theological concepts related to the nature of the world, time, and existence.

William Ames (1576–1633) was an English philosopher, theologian, and controversialist. He is best known for his work in moral philosophy and was a prominent figure in the Puritan movement. Throughout his career, Ames engaged with a wide range of philosophical and theological topics, including the nature of existence and the ordering of the world.

The quote implies that the world is not eternal, contradicting the idea of an infinite and unchanging universe. This perspective aligns with various philosophical and religious traditions that propose a beginning to the world and a particular ordering of its elements. In the context of Christian theology, this idea is often tied to the concept of creation ex nihilo, which posits that the world was brought into existence by a divine creator at a specific point in time.

Ames' assertion that the world could not have existed from eternity reflects a common theme in philosophical and theological discourse. The notion of an eternal world has been a subject of debate among philosophers and theologians for centuries. Some argue for the existence of a timeless and unchanging reality, while others contend that the world has a definite beginning and is subject to a specific ordering of events and phenomena.

The phrase "according to the present dispensation and ordering of things" suggests that the world's existence is contingent upon a particular arrangement or plan. This language aligns with theological concepts of divine providence and the idea that the world operates within a predetermined framework. It also hints at the notion of a purposeful design or structure underlying the world's existence and development.

In a broader philosophical context, this quote can be interpreted as addressing fundamental questions about the nature of time, causality, and existence. It raises inquiries into the origins of the world, the nature of its ordering, and the underlying principles that govern its development. These are perennial topics of interest for philosophers and theologians seeking to understand the fundamental nature of reality.

The quote attributed to William Ames encapsulates profound philosophical and theological insights into the nature of the world and its existence. By asserting that the world has not existed from eternity and is subject to a particular ordering of things, it prompts contemplation of the origins, purpose, and structure of the universe. This quote invites further exploration of the philosophical and theological implications of the world's existence and its place within a broader framework of cosmic order and meaning.