1520-65 Princess-Abbess Anna II von Limburg of Herford and Gerresheim (Germany)
She had been Koadjutorin 1515-20, and was the first to be appointed Princess of the Empire of the territory in 1523 and 7 years later she introduced the reformation in her principality, whereafter Herford became a secular protestant Stift. She was daughter of Count Adolf von Limburg and Elisabeth von Reichenstein Her sister Agnes was Abbess of Freckenhorst and Metelen, (d.1570) and Katharina was Abbess of Borghorst (d.1572). Anna resigned and lived another 20 years before her death in 1585.
Abbesses were also rulers in Ecclesiastical lands and thus titled "Princess" when so.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
#1891-To the Abbess in Herford
To the Most-worthy, noble, and well-born Domina, Anna von Lymborch,Abbess of the highly-noble institution of Herford,our gracious Domina.
Grace and peace from our LOrd Jesus Christ. Most-worthy, gracious Domina!
We have written our thoughts to the worthy Lord of the Brothers of Herford wherein we have written with the greatest earnestness and given counsel that the city should not become an outside authority or exercise force. In addition we have written that the Fratres should have their own parish and preserve it; as E.G. (Your Grace) will perceive throughout our writings. We plead,however, herewith that E.G. as the authority
as she is inclined, assist in promoting peace on both sides to the praise and glory of God. To serve E.G. at all times we are willing .Dated at Wittenberg on the day after Domincae Jubilate (22 April) Anno 1532. E.G.'s willing Martinus Luther.
NOTE: There is a brief biography of Anna in the list of Princess-Abbess in the Herford cloister records.
Grace and peace from our LOrd Jesus Christ. Most-worthy, gracious Domina!
We have written our thoughts to the worthy Lord of the Brothers of Herford wherein we have written with the greatest earnestness and given counsel that the city should not become an outside authority or exercise force. In addition we have written that the Fratres should have their own parish and preserve it; as E.G. (Your Grace) will perceive throughout our writings. We plead,however, herewith that E.G. as the authority
as she is inclined, assist in promoting peace on both sides to the praise and glory of God. To serve E.G. at all times we are willing .Dated at Wittenberg on the day after Domincae Jubilate (22 April) Anno 1532. E.G.'s willing Martinus Luther.
NOTE: There is a brief biography of Anna in the list of Princess-Abbess in the Herford cloister records.
#1890-To Gerhard Wilskamp and his fellow-brothers in Herford
To the highly honorable men,Herr Gerhand von Zanten, the father of the house of brothers, and his colleagues in Herford, his friend.
Heil! Higly honorable men! We are sending you a copy of the letter which we have written to the nine men (Novemviros)in which we vigourously admonished about a forceful onslaught; we posit for them no right over your properties,lives or ordinances. We have also clearly indicated that you can govern your own parish since you have used so well the doctrine of the Gospel and have practices consistent with the Gospel. Therfore according to our opinion or counsel no one should force you in any way to change your ordinances; however, we have added that we would write to you for the sake of the community. For example, it would be beneficial if you would enjoy the fellowship of the rest of the churches and if you do that it would appear that the whole matter would be resolved. Likely also many citizens who are not inclined to the Gospel would be lured to it by your example. Also we are not wanting you to change your garments nor to forsake your present way of life. We leave it to your judgment whether you in this case want to comply with the citizens. We in no way hold that you should be forced in this regard and we clearly regard your usages as good so far as we can determine them from your pamphlet. For this reason we have no misgivings about your wanting maintain your own parish. Regarding the garments and your occupying of the cloister and your entire administration we make this pronouncement: These things stand absolutely in your power. The city has no sovereignty over you and we would never want to be the motivator of anyone outside to have the power to enforce different things upon you. if, moreover you are dealing with this situation with the citizens we plead that you would give your answer in a mild way. Be it well with you. On the day after the Jubilate Sunday (22 April) 1532.
Two gold-gulden which you have given to the messenger for us we are returning with the messenger that he should restore them to you. We are not free to accept the same because of the gossip of godless people but yet we do not despise your wishing us well. However, we are giving the condemners no occasion for slander. Again be it well with you.
NOTE: The Brothers sent an "Apology" (pamphlet) to Wittenberg for review.
Heil! Higly honorable men! We are sending you a copy of the letter which we have written to the nine men (Novemviros)in which we vigourously admonished about a forceful onslaught; we posit for them no right over your properties,lives or ordinances. We have also clearly indicated that you can govern your own parish since you have used so well the doctrine of the Gospel and have practices consistent with the Gospel. Therfore according to our opinion or counsel no one should force you in any way to change your ordinances; however, we have added that we would write to you for the sake of the community. For example, it would be beneficial if you would enjoy the fellowship of the rest of the churches and if you do that it would appear that the whole matter would be resolved. Likely also many citizens who are not inclined to the Gospel would be lured to it by your example. Also we are not wanting you to change your garments nor to forsake your present way of life. We leave it to your judgment whether you in this case want to comply with the citizens. We in no way hold that you should be forced in this regard and we clearly regard your usages as good so far as we can determine them from your pamphlet. For this reason we have no misgivings about your wanting maintain your own parish. Regarding the garments and your occupying of the cloister and your entire administration we make this pronouncement: These things stand absolutely in your power. The city has no sovereignty over you and we would never want to be the motivator of anyone outside to have the power to enforce different things upon you. if, moreover you are dealing with this situation with the citizens we plead that you would give your answer in a mild way. Be it well with you. On the day after the Jubilate Sunday (22 April) 1532.
Two gold-gulden which you have given to the messenger for us we are returning with the messenger that he should restore them to you. We are not free to accept the same because of the gossip of godless people but yet we do not despise your wishing us well. However, we are giving the condemners no occasion for slander. Again be it well with you.
NOTE: The Brothers sent an "Apology" (pamphlet) to Wittenberg for review.
Friday, April 28, 2006
#1889-To the "nine men" at Her.ford
(The "nine" are thought to administrators of the cloister properties in Herford.)
To the honorable, wise , nine men in Herford.
Honorable, wise, favored friends! We have your writings and earnestly read them and were moved by them and also have listened to your emisaries who at length have indicated the reasons you think justifies your decision that the Brothers (Fratres) should have no communion of their own; thereby you have also indicated that there is no disposition among the preachers or the city that the Brothers should forsake their dwelling and habits (habitum). If you could deal with this matter in a friendly way so that without pressure, threats or forceful measures so that they and the entire city would go to one communion (Communio)that would be and well done and also set a good example for many others.As we have written to them also that, so far, you grant them that in their dwelling,properties, and administration you make no law so they have nothing to complain of; but if the Fratres want to preserve their own communion and in spite of friendly offers do not betake themselves to your communion: it is our advice that you should in no way force or pressure them to forsake their communion while they do not hold anything contrary to the Gospel. It is to the public that the parish-law applies as there are often many parishes in a city; it does not follow that every citizen can establish a parish in his own house, such is not permitted; in addition there is a great difference between a common and public assembly and that of a household since what a citizen does in his household is a matter of privacy. Further it is sensible that one should not be siezed by an outside authority; because the Fratres are not your subjects. This is our advice and appeal and please understand it given in a friendly way and moreover we think that time will provide its own advice. These are honorable, old people whom it is right to tolerate and it is common sense that one should not perpetrate an outrage against them since God has people among them whom He accepts. To serve you in a friendly way we are devoted. Martinus Luther. Philipp.
To the honorable, wise , nine men in Herford.
Honorable, wise, favored friends! We have your writings and earnestly read them and were moved by them and also have listened to your emisaries who at length have indicated the reasons you think justifies your decision that the Brothers (Fratres) should have no communion of their own; thereby you have also indicated that there is no disposition among the preachers or the city that the Brothers should forsake their dwelling and habits (habitum). If you could deal with this matter in a friendly way so that without pressure, threats or forceful measures so that they and the entire city would go to one communion (Communio)that would be and well done and also set a good example for many others.As we have written to them also that, so far, you grant them that in their dwelling,properties, and administration you make no law so they have nothing to complain of; but if the Fratres want to preserve their own communion and in spite of friendly offers do not betake themselves to your communion: it is our advice that you should in no way force or pressure them to forsake their communion while they do not hold anything contrary to the Gospel. It is to the public that the parish-law applies as there are often many parishes in a city; it does not follow that every citizen can establish a parish in his own house, such is not permitted; in addition there is a great difference between a common and public assembly and that of a household since what a citizen does in his household is a matter of privacy. Further it is sensible that one should not be siezed by an outside authority; because the Fratres are not your subjects. This is our advice and appeal and please understand it given in a friendly way and moreover we think that time will provide its own advice. These are honorable, old people whom it is right to tolerate and it is common sense that one should not perpetrate an outrage against them since God has people among them whom He accepts. To serve you in a friendly way we are devoted. Martinus Luther. Philipp.
Monday, April 24, 2006
#1886-To Georg Mohr, Preacher in Borna-two letters
To the worthy and well-learned Herr Magister (Master of Arts) Georg Mohr, preacher in Born,my favored, good friend.
Grace and peace in Christ. My dear Master Georg! I have received your writing wherein you ask: should you accept the call to the preaching-office in Zwickau etc. To that my answer is the same which I have given to all the others,namely, I have nothing to do with those in Zwickau and nothing concerns me about the parish or the preaching-position (Stuhl) there. If you want to do differently that is up to you, I will not hinder it. However, that I should advise it or support it no man could convince me that God would have me do that. Those at Zwickau will not have me for a covering for shame nor our Gospel a deception-ploy with my consent as they previously attempted and hoped for.
What you do is completely up to you to decide. If you go as the others: don't complain to me. I want to let the people and the matter rest; reasons for that they know to be for the best. They have cooled their enthusiasm; however, what will that yield if Christ has not cooled off about them? I am glad to leave it up to you.
Herewith be commended to God. And if you become preacher at Zwickau, so help you God
that you must be against me and not burdened with someone else's sin., Amen. Dated on
the Friday of Easterr (5 April) Anno 1532. D. Martinus Luther.
B.
Grace and peace. My dear Master (of Arts) Georg! I do not have much time to write much to you and your messenger is also in a hurry; otherwise I wanted to write for you to the Council in Born. I will do it at another time without being asked and do it appropriately.
Regarding the preaching-office in Zwickau I cannot advise you yet anything different than before. Whether our most gracious Lord, the Elector orders you to accept the same you might sight the previous reasons so that S.C.F.G. (his electoral princely grace) does not force you; also I do not think that it is necessary for those at Torgau to comply to N. etc. Our LOrd God will not forget you. Herewith be commended to God,etc. Dated on the Saturday after Quasimodogeniti (13 April) Anno 1532. D. Martinus Luther.
NOTES: Throughout the first letter where "N" occured the Editors inserted Zwickau based on a copy in the Memorial-book of the Zwickau Council. I'm not sure about the last sentence in the second letter whether it means that Zwickau (N) is pressuring Torgau or what.
i.e. that is, the Prince's Court or what? Evidently, Zwickau has some influence with the Elector.Publish it.
Grace and peace in Christ. My dear Master Georg! I have received your writing wherein you ask: should you accept the call to the preaching-office in Zwickau etc. To that my answer is the same which I have given to all the others,namely, I have nothing to do with those in Zwickau and nothing concerns me about the parish or the preaching-position (Stuhl) there. If you want to do differently that is up to you, I will not hinder it. However, that I should advise it or support it no man could convince me that God would have me do that. Those at Zwickau will not have me for a covering for shame nor our Gospel a deception-ploy with my consent as they previously attempted and hoped for.
What you do is completely up to you to decide. If you go as the others: don't complain to me. I want to let the people and the matter rest; reasons for that they know to be for the best. They have cooled their enthusiasm; however, what will that yield if Christ has not cooled off about them? I am glad to leave it up to you.
Herewith be commended to God. And if you become preacher at Zwickau, so help you God
that you must be against me and not burdened with someone else's sin., Amen. Dated on
the Friday of Easterr (5 April) Anno 1532. D. Martinus Luther.
B.
Grace and peace. My dear Master (of Arts) Georg! I do not have much time to write much to you and your messenger is also in a hurry; otherwise I wanted to write for you to the Council in Born. I will do it at another time without being asked and do it appropriately.
Regarding the preaching-office in Zwickau I cannot advise you yet anything different than before. Whether our most gracious Lord, the Elector orders you to accept the same you might sight the previous reasons so that S.C.F.G. (his electoral princely grace) does not force you; also I do not think that it is necessary for those at Torgau to comply to N. etc. Our LOrd God will not forget you. Herewith be commended to God,etc. Dated on the Saturday after Quasimodogeniti (13 April) Anno 1532. D. Martinus Luther.
NOTES: Throughout the first letter where "N" occured the Editors inserted Zwickau based on a copy in the Memorial-book of the Zwickau Council. I'm not sure about the last sentence in the second letter whether it means that Zwickau (N) is pressuring Torgau or what.
i.e. that is, the Prince's Court or what? Evidently, Zwickau has some influence with the Elector.Publish it.
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Saturday, April 22, 2006
#1885-To Nicholas von Amsdorf
Grace and pece! I have silent for a long time, my dear Amsdorf, and the reason being the illness in my head which now for over a month has hindered my being active in writing, reading and teaching. What you recently have written me concerning securing a pastor in the place of Melchior Mirisch and thinking about M.Hausmann I am thinking in this way: M.Georg the Deacon of our church cannot easily be moved to change his position; what M. Hausmann has for an opinion I will endeavor to learn. There is also M.Leonhard Beier here who was released from Guben rather left there. On of these both seem to me to be most suited for you. I believe that you also know M. Leonhard.However,because he is wanted in Zwickau as a preacher and here in Wittenberg as a temporary substitute in this city since Pommer hasn't returned and M.Hausmann is wanted by Schneeberg when the agreement is concluded (since Schneeberg is in agreement with us and all articles have been ageed to with the Prince except that of the so-called mixed award for services and that is being worked on. When that is made firm then everything is settled and this is also with the consent of Duke Georg. This I have from the Prince's own mouth and heard it with my own ears from D. Brueck and Riedelsels and earnestly searched it out.: thus I make this request of you that will pardon (me) for a bit concerning this whether God will order either Hausmann or Leonhard there. But listen! Is a man also to beg? Tell us how M. Mirisch had to live.
Our Prince, Thanks to God, is already improving. Twice I have visited him and been present at his bedside to talk about what the LOrd has said and comfort him with talking and stories intermixed. It was feared that his illness in the big toe of the right foot would turn to the cold fire (sacer ignis) however that has been encountered and forestalled, thanks to God! and he is getting better and better.
I believe that your marriage case with the barren wife has been settled. It is difficult for it to be decided since one of the midwives has testified that there was no fault of yours only that the publicizing of the shame was a little too deep while everything else was in order. Perhaps both are not aware of the manner and way of testifying. They may request for the Council women who are experienced in this matter. If she is now discovered to be absolutely barren the judgemnt may be clear. Be it right well with you in Christ. On the Tuesday of Easter (2 April)1532. Martin Luther.
NOTES: Not sure whether in the marriage case "verschlossen" means the wife was incommunicado or shut out by some one and not sure what part Amsdorf had in it. ML probably knew about it from being at the court in Torgau during the illness of the Prince.
For what they do in Schneeberg now see the post below. I believe this is in the Austrian Alps.
Just saw that in Genesis 16:2 Sarai says :"The Lord has restrained me from bearing."
The German has : der herr hat mich verschlossen, das Ich nichts geberen kan." So it looks like the midwives determined that the wife was barren and perhaps Nicholas announced it publicly to disolve the marriage. What do you think?
Our Prince, Thanks to God, is already improving. Twice I have visited him and been present at his bedside to talk about what the LOrd has said and comfort him with talking and stories intermixed. It was feared that his illness in the big toe of the right foot would turn to the cold fire (sacer ignis) however that has been encountered and forestalled, thanks to God! and he is getting better and better.
I believe that your marriage case with the barren wife has been settled. It is difficult for it to be decided since one of the midwives has testified that there was no fault of yours only that the publicizing of the shame was a little too deep while everything else was in order. Perhaps both are not aware of the manner and way of testifying. They may request for the Council women who are experienced in this matter. If she is now discovered to be absolutely barren the judgemnt may be clear. Be it right well with you in Christ. On the Tuesday of Easter (2 April)1532. Martin Luther.
NOTES: Not sure whether in the marriage case "verschlossen" means the wife was incommunicado or shut out by some one and not sure what part Amsdorf had in it. ML probably knew about it from being at the court in Torgau during the illness of the Prince.
For what they do in Schneeberg now see the post below. I believe this is in the Austrian Alps.
Just saw that in Genesis 16:2 Sarai says :"The Lord has restrained me from bearing."
The German has : der herr hat mich verschlossen, das Ich nichts geberen kan." So it looks like the midwives determined that the wife was barren and perhaps Nicholas announced it publicly to disolve the marriage. What do you think?
Thursday, April 20, 2006
#1883-To Chancellor Georg Vogler
To the honorable and perspicaeous Georg Vogler, Markgraphian Chancellor in Brandenburg, my favored dear Herr and Friend.
Grace and peace. Honorable,proper dear Herr and Friend! I have often on your account received admonition,especially from Lazarus Spengler, my good friend and herr that I should write to my G. (grace?) Herr Markgraf Georg for the poor parish pastors and preachers; and that I would gladly do since I have marked your great zeal and favor for the poor mass fathers. On that account I have obediently and earnestly written S.F.G.(probably "his princely grace"). Thereupon S.F.G. has entirely gracefully and assuredly answered: they should not lack anything being under S.F.G. if they only would indicate and gave his word and I in no way doubt the earnestness of S.F.G. I now further ask you in a friendly way and commend to you these poor servants of Christ to care for them as you have done previously in an admirable way and especially provide for M. Bernhard Ziegler graciously however you can; yes he is worthy as you yourself have experienced and learned. Such people are not as common as the dust on the street ; and when they go away one will look in vain for others like them. Herewith be commended to God. Dated at Wittenberg on Green Thursday (28 March) 1532. E.E.'s (probably "Your honor ") willing D.Martinus Luther, now with an illness in the head.
NOTE: The practice of addressing officials and princes with abbreviations always surprises me in that otherwise the letters are very formal.
Grace and peace. Honorable,proper dear Herr and Friend! I have often on your account received admonition,especially from Lazarus Spengler, my good friend and herr that I should write to my G. (grace?) Herr Markgraf Georg for the poor parish pastors and preachers; and that I would gladly do since I have marked your great zeal and favor for the poor mass fathers. On that account I have obediently and earnestly written S.F.G.(probably "his princely grace"). Thereupon S.F.G. has entirely gracefully and assuredly answered: they should not lack anything being under S.F.G. if they only would indicate and gave his word and I in no way doubt the earnestness of S.F.G. I now further ask you in a friendly way and commend to you these poor servants of Christ to care for them as you have done previously in an admirable way and especially provide for M. Bernhard Ziegler graciously however you can; yes he is worthy as you yourself have experienced and learned. Such people are not as common as the dust on the street ; and when they go away one will look in vain for others like them. Herewith be commended to God. Dated at Wittenberg on Green Thursday (28 March) 1532. E.E.'s (probably "Your honor ") willing D.Martinus Luther, now with an illness in the head.
NOTE: The practice of addressing officials and princes with abbreviations always surprises me in that otherwise the letters are very formal.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
#1880-To Hans von Taubenheim in Torgau
To the noble, valiant Herr Hans von Taubenheim, U, G, Hl(our gracious Lord) income-master in Torgau.
Grace and peace through Jesus Christ, our LOrd,Amen. Noble, valian, favored dear Lord!
E.E. (your nobility) ,at the outset, is assured of my willing service. You know that the preservation of Christian teaching requires personnel who lecture the people in the same and faithfully instruct them therein. Also you know that such people and Chrisitan honorable men require several years at the University to learn what they are to teach to others; they must not only study in a praiseworthy way but live honorably if they have any hope of serving the church and school. Such a one is this Matthew Schrey, an honorable fellow, born in Niemeck, who was here at Wittenberg for studies several years
and comported himself well in doctrine and ethics. As Your Valiance recently talked with D.Hieronymous (while he was near Torgau) requesting that I put forward a quiet,pious,god-fearing man to place as parish-pastor and state wages so you are to know that D.Hieronymous has carried out what you commended to him and I now perform what you recommended to me through him. Herewith I commend you to the hands of God the Almighty. Permit me and the man to be commended by you. Date at Wittenberg on the
Monday after Judica (18 March) 1532. Martin Luther,D.
Grace and peace through Jesus Christ, our LOrd,Amen. Noble, valian, favored dear Lord!
E.E. (your nobility) ,at the outset, is assured of my willing service. You know that the preservation of Christian teaching requires personnel who lecture the people in the same and faithfully instruct them therein. Also you know that such people and Chrisitan honorable men require several years at the University to learn what they are to teach to others; they must not only study in a praiseworthy way but live honorably if they have any hope of serving the church and school. Such a one is this Matthew Schrey, an honorable fellow, born in Niemeck, who was here at Wittenberg for studies several years
and comported himself well in doctrine and ethics. As Your Valiance recently talked with D.Hieronymous (while he was near Torgau) requesting that I put forward a quiet,pious,god-fearing man to place as parish-pastor and state wages so you are to know that D.Hieronymous has carried out what you commended to him and I now perform what you recommended to me through him. Herewith I commend you to the hands of God the Almighty. Permit me and the man to be commended by you. Date at Wittenberg on the
Monday after Judica (18 March) 1532. Martin Luther,D.
Monday, April 17, 2006
#1879-To Frau Dorothea Joeger in Tolleth
To the noble, virtuous Frau Dorothea Joeger, widow in Tolleth, my favored Frau and good friend in Christ.
Grace and peace in Christ. Noble, virtuous Frau! I have received your writing to me along with the apple (or plus?) butter from Kuetten (Kuetten-Latwerg)and also my dear Kaethe the 4 ungrischen (?) Gulden and both of us thank you very kindly. I have also sent Michael Stifel the essence (Seine) of it and a return script I expect any hour. Also your letter reports and requests of me how I think it best to dispense the 500 Gulden which you intend to invest in poor fellows studying the Holy Scriptures: thus I have consulted with Master Philip and other Lords and friends what they regard best and it seems that since it is to be devoted to such a beneficial and necessary cause it should gather interest so that it may always benefit many. Such interest could annually support two persons with good help so long as it was dispensed with the University of Wittenberg overseeing that it is well devoted. Therefore I have earnestly written to Lazarus Spengler, Syndico in Nuernberg that he might inquire of a trusted dealer (which he knows well how to do) in Linz and included your writing with mine (to be returned) put together that he be helpful in taking them to the Council House in Nuernberg it might be received and prescribed what would the wisest; and if not that he would send me elsewhere where it might be invested. So if this opinion pleases, the matter will be completed. Personally I want to do the best as I possibly can and am glad that God has moved your heart to consider such a good work in Christ. Such grace now appears to be little or nothing amongst us where God's Word is richly preached till people are tired of it but rather on the contrary the poor parish pastors are permitted to go hungry; both the nobility, farmers and citizens
are inclined to rob rather than help. Likely the proverb is true:"The nearer to Rome, the worse the Christians are." And Christ says In Matthew 12:42: "The Queen of Sheba shall rise up on Judgment Day against this people: she came from the end of the world etc." To the same dear LOrd in His grace I commend you together with all yours,Amen.On the Thursday after Oculi (7 March) 1532. D.Martinus Luther.
NOTES: How about Elijah's poor widow rising up in judgment against them? Looks like Dorothy the rich widow is following the poor widow in helping the prophets and prophets' sons.
Michael Stiefel, as I often said, is the inventor of system of logarithms independently of the one in use among us.
Grace and peace in Christ. Noble, virtuous Frau! I have received your writing to me along with the apple (or plus?) butter from Kuetten (Kuetten-Latwerg)and also my dear Kaethe the 4 ungrischen (?) Gulden and both of us thank you very kindly. I have also sent Michael Stifel the essence (Seine) of it and a return script I expect any hour. Also your letter reports and requests of me how I think it best to dispense the 500 Gulden which you intend to invest in poor fellows studying the Holy Scriptures: thus I have consulted with Master Philip and other Lords and friends what they regard best and it seems that since it is to be devoted to such a beneficial and necessary cause it should gather interest so that it may always benefit many. Such interest could annually support two persons with good help so long as it was dispensed with the University of Wittenberg overseeing that it is well devoted. Therefore I have earnestly written to Lazarus Spengler, Syndico in Nuernberg that he might inquire of a trusted dealer (which he knows well how to do) in Linz and included your writing with mine (to be returned) put together that he be helpful in taking them to the Council House in Nuernberg it might be received and prescribed what would the wisest; and if not that he would send me elsewhere where it might be invested. So if this opinion pleases, the matter will be completed. Personally I want to do the best as I possibly can and am glad that God has moved your heart to consider such a good work in Christ. Such grace now appears to be little or nothing amongst us where God's Word is richly preached till people are tired of it but rather on the contrary the poor parish pastors are permitted to go hungry; both the nobility, farmers and citizens
are inclined to rob rather than help. Likely the proverb is true:"The nearer to Rome, the worse the Christians are." And Christ says In Matthew 12:42: "The Queen of Sheba shall rise up on Judgment Day against this people: she came from the end of the world etc." To the same dear LOrd in His grace I commend you together with all yours,Amen.On the Thursday after Oculi (7 March) 1532. D.Martinus Luther.
NOTES: How about Elijah's poor widow rising up in judgment against them? Looks like Dorothy the rich widow is following the poor widow in helping the prophets and prophets' sons.
Michael Stiefel, as I often said, is the inventor of system of logarithms independently of the one in use among us.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Husum, Germany
Per Wikipedia:
The harbor:
Coat of Arms:
Location:
Husum (Frisian: Hüsem) is a town at the western coast of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. It is the capital of the Kreis (district) Nordfriesland. Population: 21,000. It is located 82 km W of Kiel, 139 km NW of Hamburg and 43 km SW of Flensburg.
Husum is most famous for being the birthplace of the novelist Theodor Storm. He coined the epithet "the grey town at the sea". Nicolaus Bruhns, who was an important influence on Johann Sebastian Bach, was organist in Husum from 1689 to 1697. Like most towns at the North Sea, Husum was ever strongly influenced by storm tides. It is first mentioned 1252, when here was the Danish castle of Husumbro, where king Abel was murdered. In 1362 a disastrous storm tide flooded the town and carved out the inland harbour. Prior to this date Husum was not situated directly at the coast. Today Husum is a tourist resort and a gate to the North Frisian Islands. It is also twinned with the town of Kidderminster, England.
District: Rödemis
Sights in Husum:
* Marienkirche (Saint Mary), collapsed 1807, re-erected 1833
* Castle, 1582, was a residence of the Dukes of Gottorf
* Town hall, 1601
* Residential house of Theodor Storm
* North Frisian ship museum
The harbor:
Coat of Arms:
Location:
#1877- Martin to Kaethe his wife
The wife of my heart's love, Katharin Luther, for her personal attention.
God's greeting in Christ. My heart's desire Kaethe! I hope that if Doctor Brueck gets permission as he assured me that I will come with him tomorrow or the day after tomorrow. Pray God that He will bring us home fresh and healthy. I sleep very well about six or seven hours in a row and then two or three after that. It must be the fault of the beer. However I am jsut as sober as in Wittenberg. Doctor Caspar says that the foot of our gracious lord is not being further devoured. Such torture is not suffered by any Dobitzsch (?) nor yet one imprisoned by the director in the tower of Hans Stockmeister as his electoral grace must suffer from the wound surgeon. His Electoral Grace is healthy as a fish throughout his body except for the devil biting and hindering his foot. Pray, pray more! I hope God will hear us as He is beginning to do. D. Caspar thinks also that here it is God who must help.
Because John is going necessity and honor requires that I let him go honorably. You know how he has served faithfully and zealously and truly and humbly supported the Gospel and has done and suffered everything. Think about how oftentimes we have supported evil boobs and unthankful students and everything has been lost: so now you take up the matter and do not permit such a pious fellow to suffer want as you know this is appropriate and pleases God. I know well how little there is; however I would gladly give him 10 Gulden if I had it. However, do not give him less than 5 Gulden because he has no clothes. I am asking that you give him whatever you can. It might be that the common treasury could in my honor give my servant something seeing that at my expense I must support the service of their church for their benefit; however, whatever they want. Don't let it fail because there is a goblet there. (?) Think what you accomplish. God will give something different; that I know. Herewith be to God commended, Amen.
Tell the pastor from Zwickau that he may well stay in the lodge and take it for granted. When I come I want to tell how Muehfurt and I were guests of Rietzel and Muehlfurt educated me with much wisdom. However I am not thirsty for such a draught. Hug young Hans for me and bid little Hans, little Lena and Aunt Lena to pray for the dear Prince and for me. Though there is a merchandise market in this city I can find nothing to buy for the children. If I can bring nothing special I will make something from our supply. The Tuesday after Reminiscere (27 Feb.) 1532. D. Martinus Luther.
Note: John Rischmann from Braunschweig matriculated at Wittenberg on May 7,1527. In 1533 Luther recommended him for co-rector and deacon in Husum according to Burkhardt
.Torgau beer ML regarded as the best. Remember him telling someone from there who was coming to a celebration that they could not come without bringing a barrel of Torgau beer.
Later it was at the bridge in Torgau that the US Army and Russians met to end World War II.
God's greeting in Christ. My heart's desire Kaethe! I hope that if Doctor Brueck gets permission as he assured me that I will come with him tomorrow or the day after tomorrow. Pray God that He will bring us home fresh and healthy. I sleep very well about six or seven hours in a row and then two or three after that. It must be the fault of the beer. However I am jsut as sober as in Wittenberg. Doctor Caspar says that the foot of our gracious lord is not being further devoured. Such torture is not suffered by any Dobitzsch (?) nor yet one imprisoned by the director in the tower of Hans Stockmeister as his electoral grace must suffer from the wound surgeon. His Electoral Grace is healthy as a fish throughout his body except for the devil biting and hindering his foot. Pray, pray more! I hope God will hear us as He is beginning to do. D. Caspar thinks also that here it is God who must help.
Because John is going necessity and honor requires that I let him go honorably. You know how he has served faithfully and zealously and truly and humbly supported the Gospel and has done and suffered everything. Think about how oftentimes we have supported evil boobs and unthankful students and everything has been lost: so now you take up the matter and do not permit such a pious fellow to suffer want as you know this is appropriate and pleases God. I know well how little there is; however I would gladly give him 10 Gulden if I had it. However, do not give him less than 5 Gulden because he has no clothes. I am asking that you give him whatever you can. It might be that the common treasury could in my honor give my servant something seeing that at my expense I must support the service of their church for their benefit; however, whatever they want. Don't let it fail because there is a goblet there. (?) Think what you accomplish. God will give something different; that I know. Herewith be to God commended, Amen.
Tell the pastor from Zwickau that he may well stay in the lodge and take it for granted. When I come I want to tell how Muehfurt and I were guests of Rietzel and Muehlfurt educated me with much wisdom. However I am not thirsty for such a draught. Hug young Hans for me and bid little Hans, little Lena and Aunt Lena to pray for the dear Prince and for me. Though there is a merchandise market in this city I can find nothing to buy for the children. If I can bring nothing special I will make something from our supply. The Tuesday after Reminiscere (27 Feb.) 1532. D. Martinus Luther.
Note: John Rischmann from Braunschweig matriculated at Wittenberg on May 7,1527. In 1533 Luther recommended him for co-rector and deacon in Husum according to Burkhardt
.Torgau beer ML regarded as the best. Remember him telling someone from there who was coming to a celebration that they could not come without bringing a barrel of Torgau beer.
Later it was at the bridge in Torgau that the US Army and Russians met to end World War II.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
#1876-To Veit Dietrich in Wittenberg
To the highly regarded Herr and Man,that is, Veit Dietrich who in this hour can become Deacon (decanibilis) in the faculty of the liberal arts of the University of Wittenberg,my very dear friend.
My greetings! It seems that your prayers over the sickness of the Prince should not cease but for the sake of Christ should continue on and on to pray. There are many who wish for his death and D.Caspar says that this hellish fever will be brought to a standstill by cutting off the big toe and though it has not spread through the upper foot it nevertheless must be deeply cut and it was operated on today with great pain so that the Prince cried out:"It pressures me very hard. It must be an evil thing as you say."He doesn't know that the big toe and a portion of the bone has been cut away, but he does thinks the skin or flesh has been cut away. If the fever develops further in the foot it will come to a head and certainly very shortly. "It is certainly a hellish fever" and the breath of Satan himself. D. Caspar is sure that because of this illness the members of the living body will turn to ashes. I am going about my foreword
to the Prophets. However, before breakfast I die daily due to dizziness and the assaults of Satan so that I almost despair of my life and return back to you. After breakfast I comfort either the Prince or others. "The head does not want to do anything more. Therfore I think that should I die your art and eloquence could be used for the foreword." Here I can bring nothing to completion; for this reason I am thinking that when I can I will return with D. Brueck although I am somewhat skeptical about the journey. However so say the astologers and the mathematicians in their prophecies whom I have often convicted or errors: I will yet often convict them of more errors. Be it right well with you and greet all the friends. D. Martin Luther,in haste as the messenger is very much in a hurry.
My greetings! It seems that your prayers over the sickness of the Prince should not cease but for the sake of Christ should continue on and on to pray. There are many who wish for his death and D.Caspar says that this hellish fever will be brought to a standstill by cutting off the big toe and though it has not spread through the upper foot it nevertheless must be deeply cut and it was operated on today with great pain so that the Prince cried out:"It pressures me very hard. It must be an evil thing as you say."He doesn't know that the big toe and a portion of the bone has been cut away, but he does thinks the skin or flesh has been cut away. If the fever develops further in the foot it will come to a head and certainly very shortly. "It is certainly a hellish fever" and the breath of Satan himself. D. Caspar is sure that because of this illness the members of the living body will turn to ashes. I am going about my foreword
to the Prophets. However, before breakfast I die daily due to dizziness and the assaults of Satan so that I almost despair of my life and return back to you. After breakfast I comfort either the Prince or others. "The head does not want to do anything more. Therfore I think that should I die your art and eloquence could be used for the foreword." Here I can bring nothing to completion; for this reason I am thinking that when I can I will return with D. Brueck although I am somewhat skeptical about the journey. However so say the astologers and the mathematicians in their prophecies whom I have often convicted or errors: I will yet often convict them of more errors. Be it right well with you and greet all the friends. D. Martin Luther,in haste as the messenger is very much in a hurry.
Monday, April 10, 2006
#1872-Elector Johann of Saxony to ML
(I think I see one period in about 500 words -courtly style-.The Editors noted something in regard to a "haben". Dies haben is zu viel. Der Concipient hat die Construction verloren." The court secretary got lost in verbiage, I think.)
By the grace of God we (majestic plural?) Johnn, Duke of Saxony and Elector, make known for us and our heirs and make public the following: Since the honor-worthy and scholarly our dear devout, Herr Martin Luther, Doctor, by the special grace and determination of the Almighty, has almost since the beginning of our University in Wittenberg during the time of the administration of our dear brother Duke Friedrich, Elector, of blessed memory, and during our following administration as Elector has provided the same University with lectures on the Holy Scriptures, preaching, spreading and proclaiming the Holy Gospel and divine Word and in addition the institution of Christian ceremonies
through the visitation of the churches in lands and princedom, praise and glory to the Almighty, also to the salvation and consolation of men's blessedness, and as he now for sufficient time toiled we are inclined to him with special graciousness: thus we have in consideration of all this motivated solely by ourselves without being sought do proscribe to Herr Doctor Martinus, Catarina his wife,and their physical heirs, sons and daughters both,the new dwelling in our city of Wittenberg, previously known as the Black Cloister, wherein Doctor has dwelled for a time and also its ground and surroundings and garden and the courtyard thereof excluding nothing and to a great extent of which he now uses, inhabits, and dwells in and this as a legal,free inheritance prescibed ,given and gifted. (here is the first period and the superflous of "haben"}. Further we prescribe to him, his wife and children the above named dwelling complex as given and graced to them to possess,enjoy and use according to their pleasure and will as their own inheritance and also by the authority of this
letter that the dwelling may be dwelt without any of our interference or that of our heirs except that Doctor Martin, his wife or also their heirs, or beneficiaries should not sell the dwelling concerned to anyone or let that occur, nor should they consider it, without notifying us or our heirs whether our heirs should receive compensation or other stipulations, and that they might consider doing something else
so it should be brought to us or to the Council of the city so that the quietude and benefit may be to them and we hereby also give the renown Doctor and his married wife out of special favor the freedom for the lifetime of both of them to carry out all the burdens and obligations of citizens in this our city of Wittenberg and the freedom in the dwelling-complex to be exempted from contributing to the treasury or other obligation and that they therein may brew, malt,entertain, have cattle, and other citizenship privileges as the other citizens and dwellers in the city of Wittenberg possess. The same should their heirs and descendants possess completely without hindrance except that they should annually remit to the treasury 20 of our tax-groschen for the above mentioned dwelling and this to be remitted to the Council and that they should also assume the obligations and duties of all citizens and that the above mentioned dwelling should not be given over to any other land or prince's direction without our favor and determination but Doctor Martin Luther, Katarina his wife and their heirs herewith are completely free and privileged from any intervention. Proclaimed with our seal with full knowlege and given at
Torgau on the Sunday after the purification of our dear Mother (4 February) after the birth of our dear LOrd Christ 1532.
NOTE: Do you know when Kaethe had to leave the Black Cloister?
By the grace of God we (majestic plural?) Johnn, Duke of Saxony and Elector, make known for us and our heirs and make public the following: Since the honor-worthy and scholarly our dear devout, Herr Martin Luther, Doctor, by the special grace and determination of the Almighty, has almost since the beginning of our University in Wittenberg during the time of the administration of our dear brother Duke Friedrich, Elector, of blessed memory, and during our following administration as Elector has provided the same University with lectures on the Holy Scriptures, preaching, spreading and proclaiming the Holy Gospel and divine Word and in addition the institution of Christian ceremonies
through the visitation of the churches in lands and princedom, praise and glory to the Almighty, also to the salvation and consolation of men's blessedness, and as he now for sufficient time toiled we are inclined to him with special graciousness: thus we have in consideration of all this motivated solely by ourselves without being sought do proscribe to Herr Doctor Martinus, Catarina his wife,and their physical heirs, sons and daughters both,the new dwelling in our city of Wittenberg, previously known as the Black Cloister, wherein Doctor has dwelled for a time and also its ground and surroundings and garden and the courtyard thereof excluding nothing and to a great extent of which he now uses, inhabits, and dwells in and this as a legal,free inheritance prescibed ,given and gifted. (here is the first period and the superflous of "haben"}. Further we prescribe to him, his wife and children the above named dwelling complex as given and graced to them to possess,enjoy and use according to their pleasure and will as their own inheritance and also by the authority of this
letter that the dwelling may be dwelt without any of our interference or that of our heirs except that Doctor Martin, his wife or also their heirs, or beneficiaries should not sell the dwelling concerned to anyone or let that occur, nor should they consider it, without notifying us or our heirs whether our heirs should receive compensation or other stipulations, and that they might consider doing something else
so it should be brought to us or to the Council of the city so that the quietude and benefit may be to them and we hereby also give the renown Doctor and his married wife out of special favor the freedom for the lifetime of both of them to carry out all the burdens and obligations of citizens in this our city of Wittenberg and the freedom in the dwelling-complex to be exempted from contributing to the treasury or other obligation and that they therein may brew, malt,entertain, have cattle, and other citizenship privileges as the other citizens and dwellers in the city of Wittenberg possess. The same should their heirs and descendants possess completely without hindrance except that they should annually remit to the treasury 20 of our tax-groschen for the above mentioned dwelling and this to be remitted to the Council and that they should also assume the obligations and duties of all citizens and that the above mentioned dwelling should not be given over to any other land or prince's direction without our favor and determination but Doctor Martin Luther, Katarina his wife and their heirs herewith are completely free and privileged from any intervention. Proclaimed with our seal with full knowlege and given at
Torgau on the Sunday after the purification of our dear Mother (4 February) after the birth of our dear LOrd Christ 1532.
NOTE: Do you know when Kaethe had to leave the Black Cloister?
Monday, April 03, 2006
#1870-To Jacob Montanus and Gerh. Wilskamp in Herford
Doctor Martin Luther, suffering head pain, wishes well to the highly-honorable brothers, Jacob Montanus of Speier and Gerhard von Xanten, the faithful and pure servants of the Word in Herford, his brothers in the LOrd.
Grace and peace! I have received yours and Gerhards writing and have written to the Council in your city about the matter that they should protect and defend your charter
(institution?=Stift)opposing the disturbance which this crier is promoting. Your way of life pleases me immensely in that in the Gospel of Christ the teaching is extensively purely taught and lived and would to God that even today there were such cloisters or that there would be some of them. I don't venture to wish for many but if all were of that sort the Church would be altogether blessed by this life. Your garments and other things which were previously maintained in a praiseworthy way do not harm the Gospel, yes, they help the Gospel much against the raging and determined and unbridled spirits
who do nothing but tear down and to this day have not learned to build up anything. Hold on to your way firmly and by living this manner of life spread the Gospel abroad (as you are doing). Be it right well with you and pray for me. Given in Wittenberg on the last of January Anno 1532. Martin Luther.
Postscript: My wife and children greet you and all the sisters and thank you for the delivered gift. I will send the printed books however there is no carrier at hand. Meanwhile I assume that you have received everything.
Grace and peace! I have received yours and Gerhards writing and have written to the Council in your city about the matter that they should protect and defend your charter
(institution?=Stift)opposing the disturbance which this crier is promoting. Your way of life pleases me immensely in that in the Gospel of Christ the teaching is extensively purely taught and lived and would to God that even today there were such cloisters or that there would be some of them. I don't venture to wish for many but if all were of that sort the Church would be altogether blessed by this life. Your garments and other things which were previously maintained in a praiseworthy way do not harm the Gospel, yes, they help the Gospel much against the raging and determined and unbridled spirits
who do nothing but tear down and to this day have not learned to build up anything. Hold on to your way firmly and by living this manner of life spread the Gospel abroad (as you are doing). Be it right well with you and pray for me. Given in Wittenberg on the last of January Anno 1532. Martin Luther.
Postscript: My wife and children greet you and all the sisters and thank you for the delivered gift. I will send the printed books however there is no carrier at hand. Meanwhile I assume that you have received everything.
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