Edmund Gibson (1669-1748) was an eminent English churchman and jurist of the 18th century. He is best known for his contributions in the field of ecclesiastical law and his service as Bishop of London.
Born in Bampton, Oxfordshire, Gibson studied at Queen's College, Oxford, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1690 and a Master of Arts degree in 1693. He subsequently pursued a career in the legal profession, joining the Middle Temple in 1691.
Gibson's accomplishments lie primarily in the realm of ecclesiastical law. In 1716, he published his most renowned work, the "Codex Juris Ecclesiastici Anglicani," which served as a comprehensive guide to the ecclesiastical laws of England. This monumental work established him as the leading authority on church law and earned him prominent positions within the Church of England.
In 1723, Gibson was appointed Bishop of Lincoln and, later, in 1723, as the Bishop of London. As Bishop, he undertook various reforms within the church and was an advocate for church discipline and moral governance. He worked to restore the authority of the Church of England and strengthen its ties with the monarchy.
Despite his contributions to ecclesiastical law, Gibson also left a lasting impact on the legal profession. He was an eager commentator on legal matters, providing learned interpretations of legal cases and statutes.
Edmund Gibson's legacy rests in his significant contributions to the field of church law and his service as Bishop of London. His work remains highly regarded among legal and ecclesiastical scholars, highlighting his enduring influence on both disciplines.
