Gerhard, Johann Ernst

(1.) a theologian, was born at Jena December 15, 1621. He studied at the universities of Jena, Altdorf, Helinstadt, Leipzig, and Wittemberg. devoting himself to Oriental literature and theology. He visited successively the libraries of Holland, Switzerland, and France, and in his journey became acquainted with some of the most eminent literary men of that period. After his return to Jena he became professor of history, afterwards of theology, in the university, and died in that city February 24, 1688. He wrote Harmonia linguarum orientalitum: — Consensus et Dissensus religionum profanarum Judaismi, Samaritanismi, Muhamedismi et psqganismi. — Ersch und Gruber, Allg. Encycl.; Jocher, Allg. Gel.-Lex.; Hoefer, Nouv. Biog. Generale, 20:213.