Reformation Letters

#2382-ML to Johann Fesel, Pastor in Coburg

2012-01-30T16:09:00.000-06:00

To the very dear brother, M.Johann Fesel, the faithful servant of the Word in Coburg.
Grace and peace in Christ! The Chancellor related to me that an appeal writing is required of me as you likely from the treasurer and H.von Sternberg will hear. Since the Prince is very indignant of that which by the orders of the Visitors is neglected and given them a good scolding.If you should know that the Kastner is disturbed by this scolding you can console him that it was not directed to him but to those for whom it was fitting. Since I fear if it already were burdensome to him and experienced unrest it could come to the ears of his wife, and the very good wife become more disturbed. Now your recommendations have proved right and anew caused concern. And they (the visitors?) will call on an obstetrician since that advice is well cast. The rest at another time. Greet all of yours especially the Kastner and his wife. From Neustadt (Neapoli)on 5 October 1537. Martin Luthr.

#2381-To Augustin Himmel, Preacher in Colditz

2012-01-26T13:08:00.000-06:00

Grace and peace in Christ! Caspar Schaller is sent to you, a God-blessed and poor man, the bringer of this letter,my dear Augustin, so that he may lead your boys' school.I wish that he would be to you very much recommended. To that end I plead that you the dispensers of the church's treasury,also for my sake,may either order or them impress, that he is given some compensation so that he may be clothed and established and afterward in a time or placed in account to be repaid in accord with the rule of subtraction etc. If I can do anything further according to your pleasure I am ready. The extreme need of this man moves me to write to you for him as there is no other way available to help and counsel him to another position of which he is worthy. Since he is a gifted man, instructed in scholarship and music but he, through an unfortunate accident has lost his stability and is thrown in the extremist of trouble. Be it right well with you and all of yours, joyful in Christ. Amen. Thursday after Mauritius (27 Sept). Anno 1537. Your Maritn Luther.

#2380-ML to Margaretha,Princess of Anhalt

2012-01-19T08:59:00.000-06:00

(ML writes to Margaretha daughter of the Markgrafin Elizabeth of Anhalt seemingly dying at ML's home in Wittenberg and being cared for Kaethe. ML thinks that there would be no place in Wittenberg for Margaretha to reside and doesn't think she should come.)

To the illustrious,high=born Princess,Lady Margaretha, born Princess in Brandenburg,Princess in Anhalt,Grafin in Ascania, and Lady in Bernburg,my gracious Lady.
Illustiious,high-born Princess, gracious Lady.! Ready with obligatory and obedient service at all times with zeal to EFG. Gracious Princess! After EFG's recent departure gave me indication that the same EF Grace was inclined and willing to take care of the same's Lady Mother and thereto desire that I EF's Grace together with several personell would again provide lodging in my residence or something nearby to establish a quiet residence: now I have since everywhere the city is full of people in every area do not know of any additional place to dwell..I think it therefore not necessary that EFG be near her Lady Mother since your Grace,God willing , Mother will have no lack of care and I will spare no effort to accomplish that. Also I am with the confident hope that the Almighty God, from day to day, will turn and provide things for the better and thereto
our church steadfastly pleads to God.Should yet EFG desire yet to come here, without a quiet lodging, as said above, EFG herself may consider that it would not be entirely unmanageable. Therefore would EFG as touching the Lady Mother would have no need for you to come.Thus, have I humbly indicated by good intentions and offer in every way by obedient and responible service and am completely willing and not over oppressed. Dated at Wittenberg on midweek after Maurici (26 Sept.)Anno 1537. EFG's humble,obedient Martinus Luther in Wittenberg and Doctor.

#2379-ML to Johann Prince of Anhalt.

2012-01-18T15:03:00.000-06:00

My gracious Lord,Prince Johann in Anhalt. For the hands of S.F.G.
Gracious Prince and Lord!It is now that her grace the Markgraf has awakened from sleep but it happens that she understands little; if now EFG wants to see and hear she may yet realize. My Kette sits beside her at the bed and quiets her and thinks EFG would do well to come not only to see everything but that thereby she might be quieted etc. EFG"s willing Martinus Luther.
N.B.The Markgrafin is Elisabeth.

#2378-Elector Johann Friedrich to ML

2012-01-18T14:45:00.000-06:00

(This letter is summarized by the St.Louis Edition)
The Elector orders Luther to endeavor that the disharmony between D. Jakob Schenk of Freiberg and the Wittenberg theologians Jonas and Melancthon be brought to harmony because the same is an occasion of ridicule by the opponents especially Duke Georg who brings it forth and others who want to bring harm to the Gospel.- Burkhardt oberves that the conflict about the Sacrament arose because Schenk at times administered the Sacrament under both forms and then sometimes under one.

Elector Johann Friedrich to Spaltin

2011-12-15T15:37:00.001-06:00

#2377.Elector.Joh. Friedrich to Georg Spalatin, Pastor and Domherr.
At the outset our greetings. Worthy, dear devout one! We have your writing received and that the most worthy and highly-celebrated ,our dear devoted one, Mr.Martinus Luther,Doct., praise God is fresh and healthy,also weekly preaches and teaches. Such we have graciously received and gladly heard and hope from the Almighty God in His Almightiness give enduring health for His salvific Word for the consolation also for Christianity graciously inspire and support.The news which you gave us of the report of the named Doctor Martinus from Etschland clientele which has come here that he yet lives, gives, and does we have gladly received. And that there such report resounded and such cry came to us that Doct.Martinus in Schmalkalden was very sore and severly illl.
We believe also happily that the named Doctor Martinus from our Aunt, the Markgrafin and her daughter were greatly concerned about their arrival in Wittenberg but now needs not to be changed.
We also have ordered the oversight of Magister Georg Rorer ready to order, except he must with patient await . until we, as God wills. come, to Torgau for the publication of the same; we will then complete the same and send to him.We also have ordered Magister Georg Roerer's observations prepared, only he must await our prescription with patience until we, as God wills, either come to Torgau again; then we will complete the same and send to him.
2.We have also, as you know, been pleased that Doct. Martinus sermons and Lectures be assembled in the library written during his life.And you also, as we do not know, also order that you, as one who knows, are ordered to commend that he should such sermons and lectures transcribe. As this is our gracious desire that we desire such work to be undertaken beneficially: such you will not be without remuneration and recompense with nothing lacking since it proceeds therewith we do not want to fail in anything.
3.Whatever several of the great learned Constrasei would want done in the library to them we will give consideration and we when we come to Torgau give further consideration.
4.Concerning the old Duke of Saxony's,blessed one, whose remains should be brought out of the cloister to the main church according to a common practice should be ordered we want to speak with Doctor Martin and others. Whether it seems good to you it also would seem good to us and we will condsider and decide. The enclosed Pasquilla we have graciously received. Thus we would be pleased to have your gracious opinion, and are graciously inclined toward you. Date in Coburg,Tuesday nach Egidius (4 Sept.) Anno 1537.

Excuse,please!

2011-11-29T10:30:00.001-06:00

#2374-Luther to Johann Prince of Anhalt
To the illustrious,high-born Prince and Lord, Herr Johann, Prince in Anhalt, Graf in Ascania, and Lord in Bernburg, my gracious Lord.
G.(Grace) and Peace in Christ etc.Illustrious,highborn Prince, gracious Lord! That I at the time could not come I ask that EFG would graciously excuse me. Then it was not that I lacked the willingness and ready desire, but it was resolved for me to appear in Roslow and afterward to Dessen before EFG wanted me and this troubles my heart. As soon as I can, I will not miss the opportunity. God give His grace thereto, Amen. Herewith be to God commended. Monday after Bartholomew (27 August) 1537. EFG's willing one, Martinus Luther,D.

Stipend for Brothecker

2011-11-15T12:44:00.001-06:00

#2373-To Elector Johann Friedrich
G.(grace)& Peace in Christ and my poor Pater Noster (Our Father)! ECFG has graciously granted a city-youth of Eisenach from a knightly grant (Lehen) of land a stipend for Herman Brothecker, which he has used well and well taken to theology. Now, however, it is time for it to expire and he is sadly troubled that he must let go of his studies and learn hand-work since he does not yet have further support.Plead with ECFG humbly that he would for yet another year or two extend the named stipend after which he will be mature and old enough to use. Since he is adapted to theology ECFG sees and knows well what a shortage on those offices daily increases and thereto ECFG would well how to graciously and Christianly demonstrate this to the praise and glory of God; may He be richly and steadfastly with ECFG,Amen. On the evening of ST.Bartholomew (23 August) 1537. ECFG's submissive Martinus Luther,D.

ML appeals for housing for Pastor Gabriel,wife Else and children

2011-11-07T10:05:00.002-06:00

#2372-ML to the Council at Torgau.
To the honored,honorable,Perceptive, Mayor and Council in Torgau, my favored good Lords and Friends.
G.unF.(grace and peace) in Christ. Honorable,perceptive Lords and Friends! I have often spoken with your Pastor Gabriel how he will manage his house situation and what his wife and children would be left. He said that he was well satisfied; yet his Else would like a little house which is just. Now they only have a piece of land (because there is no house available) which they plan to use, namely next to the sexton's house, as he may have indicated. Now I want to give this request to my favored lords that it would be honorable and praiseworthy ( as it is in your power), that you your faithful pastor, who has served you with the Word for fourteen years, show your friendliness and permit your thankfulness to show especially as it comes under a citizen's right or should remain so.About that it is my friendly request you would grant him such room or help provide it because it seems futile and without consideration. Thereby you would give a good witness of your favor and love for the Word and the servant of the same which yet otherwise has scarcely much favor received. Doing this you would therein well demonstrate something Christian and good to me. Herewith, be commended to God, Amen. Tuesday after the Assumption of Mary (21 August)1537. Martinus Luther,D,

2011-10-17T14:48:00.000-05:00

#2371-Elector Johann Friedrich to ML-(Antwort to #2367 on the punishment of M.Paul Heinz)

At the outset our greetings. Honorable and highl-celebrated, dear devoted one! Your writing our ordered Council in Torgau, dated on the Thursday after James received, which writing to us at Hildburghausen on the Monday after Laurentius was delivered, which we perused and noted, that your various considerations as to whether the imprisoned Magister Paul for his previous misdeeds and evil-doing toward our University should have censure and judgment inflicted, and request that we this matter should postpone until our coming. Thereto we do not want to conceal from you our gracious opinion that we previously received from our Universitiy two writings that therein is no explicit punishment in the laws but it is left to the discretion of the judicial office and they would determine to banish privilege and forever the named Magister from the University freedoms, this with an vehement plea, that we would such graciously yield to and additionally order punishment that the named Magister be forbidden in our friendly, dear brothers's electorate and lands forever. After we then determined as should the named Magister should not be subject to higher law and that likewise we this evil and offensive deed any further consideration be given so we have the request of the University given regard and also ordered on the way our Landvogt ( administrative official) in Saxony of the same. Because then such before and afterward your writing was proper we had given our consent willingly to be executed and not misconstrued and you should consider that it was before your letter came to us we were aware of your request afterward and we desire gracously that you would receive the same because this matter extends so far and be satisfied and let it be. And we have your custody opinion no differently graciously noted, also not doubting whether the Magister or someone else may understand the matter as unjust but he should not flee his appropriate punishment. We have nothing more to say about your gracious opinion and are inclined toward you with grace and good. Dated at Coburg on the Thursday after the Assumption of Mary (16 August) Anno 1537.

N.B. Court composition very difficult for me. Check with the experts.Wonder what happened to M.Paul Heinz ,his wfe and stepson? "Ewiglich" is a long time.

File:Eobanus-Hessus.jpg - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

2011-10-10T20:49:00.000-05:00

File:Eobanus-Hessus.jpg - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:

'via Blog this'

2011-10-10T11:05:00.001-05:00

#2369-To Eoban Hesse
To the renown poet of our time, who is God-pleasing as well as chaste, Herr Eoban Hesse, his very dear brother in the LOrd.
Grace and peace in our LOrd Jesus Christ,Amen. Your Psalter,highly-renown Eoban, in the LOrd very dear brother, which you in your name have delivered to me, I have received. And read with the greatest pleasure,do read, and will always read as so acceptable to me is your work which this very lovely book has supplied to me. I say to you the greatest possible thanks that your goodly effort, such god-pleasing labor has given me this royal,divine and excellent Hebrew poetry made to be seen in Latin.Also I praise all others have devoted their efforts to translate this poetry, to clarify and to make it very much delightful although likely they did not achieve everything since we all cannot achieve everything;; with exception (which I do not praise) that which brings in the Jewish darkness to the very bright light in several Psalms, since I cannot look at it without distaste.So it pleases me most of all that you are the first and likely the only who delivered this divine poetry completely in Latin vocabulary and have so happily undertaken and likewise so happily succeeded. Through this you have indicated that yes these thoughts (vires) come from the heavenly Heights, done by you richer and more powerfully than by other poets this royal poetry though they were greatly inspired and always motivated but hardly ever recognized or only slightly.This you have done and in no way you not of the matter itself beyond the understanding , as we are accustomed to say, it should also be moved by the truth. This movement.however, comes not by nature , also not of the common power of labor,or not through the customary inspiration, but it is in truth a new gift of the Spirit and an higher inspiration from heaven.Therefore I wish you not only happiness but praise also my LOrd Jesus Christ who through His Spirit has this blessed work completed which without doubt to others benefit greatly and for an example extends. mainly for the youth whom through the faithful teachers from this poetry at the same time the knowledge and the efforts the spiritual things and concerns can learn. Then I must say am one of those who is who is more strongly moved ,more delighted, and it more firmer adhere than to the stringent form be it of Cicero and Demosthenes.That this happens to me in other things, so much more in the matter of the Psalter!With this book I have from youth delighted in actively and worked at. and , thanks to God ! not without great fruit.Then not to put my gift above that of others yet I boast with an holy arrogance that for all the thrones and kingdoms of this world I would dispense with what I have through consideration and delight have received under the blessing of the Holy Spirit.Since I have not a foolish humility so that God's gifts to me, which He has given to me should not be spoken of . Of myself I have likely enough and more than enough that humiliates me and instructs me that I am nothing; in God once must confidently proud, in His gifts rejoice, triumph and boast, as I do in my own German Psalter, yet actually more in your Eobanische, however, everything to the glory of God, Who is to be praised in etrernity. In Him be it right well with you always and eternally, Amen. Wittenberg the first of August 1537. Martin Luther.

2011-10-06T21:05:00.000-05:00

#2368-To Friedrich Myconius in Gotha.
Grace and peace in Christ! I wish you happiness, my dear Friedrich,that you at last from God also a "Fritzlein" have been granted. I think it so very good that you count seven daughters, and as desiring also a little son and lovingly have received. I wish you once again happiness and pray that he will be preserved for you and that you , the father, will pass on every gift,Amen. That you boast your good standing with your Magistrate praising you, that you desired to deny me a grave in your bishophric, thus I have often regretted that I was not buried in your city. Since I am again restored to health I see such things which I have not seen before if I were in God buried or in Gotha buried.However the Victor over all, Christ, overcomes also this trifle evil. Just like there are more angels with us than we think so also there are more good things than we see. Then as all others have eyes they do not yet see the LOrd as Paul says 1 Cor.2:9. My lord Kaethe greets you and wishes you happiness in the birth of a son, but she warns that you refrain from the son's milk and let the mother rest until the son lets off with the milk and is accustomed to that (ablactetur=entwoehnt wird). The rest you will as a married man understand although she doubts that your remembrance will have any consequence. Be it right well with you in the LOrd.

I might . after you have researched everything publish a book on the history of Erfurt because this matter will extend to the glory of God and the consolation of many to say nothing that will terrify because of the monstrosities of the Pope. Friday after James (27 July) Anno 1537. Your M. Luther.

N.B. Earlier in the year at Schmalkalden, ML was thought to be near death with Steinkrankheit (gall or kidney stones) he headed back to Wittenberg stopping at Tambach, got relief and went on to Gotha. Kaethe started out to meet him as ML spent several days there still in danger of death. Thus, his thinking about being buried in Gotha. I'm trying to get info from Luther Index on "Das Andere"( the rest). Maybe Kaethe thinks seven daughters and one son are enough but doubts he will think so. Was denken Sie an? Further, from the anonymous comment I understand that Fredrich is to abstain until the son is weaned.Hope that's right?

2011-09-29T10:46:00.000-05:00

#2367-To the Elector Johann Friedrich
(N.B. by translator: Leaving Hundbegraber untranslated. See various ideas on the previous blog.St.Louis Edition heads this as an admonition to the Elector not to be too lenient with the imprisoned M.Paul Heinz.)

To the illustrious,high-born Prince and Lord, Herr Johann Fredrich, Duke in Saxony, Arch-marshall of the Holy Roman Empire and Elector,Landgraf in Thuringia and Markgraf in Meissen, my most gracious Lord.
Grace and peace in Christ, also my poor Pater Noster. Illustrious H.F.G.H! I had wanted to spare E.C.F.G. this writing and let it go on account of what happens to the imprisoned M.Paulus who us all with his devilish mistreatment has put forth a slanderous libel that we are everywhere Hundbegraber (although there was no dog) and we must be shamed.. Now several jurists in the Pope's (devil's) Name have once again become merciful, yet not over us, about which we must suffer, and want the instituter of such such shame to be made holy, on account of which us poor theologians are portrayed as blood-thirsty, so I yet also (as I hope) have demonstrated mercy over many evil-doers more than ECFG could tolerate. Now the outcry is so great and increases that has come before the University with words and writings; whether your mercy should be lacking and my concern all too much then I would apologize and henceforth would know well how to proceed against such Jurists.

Now because ECFG as lands-Prince also is involved, since it is an important matter: so I must to ECFG humbly indicate so that afterward I assert before ECFG why I had been silent in such time; since the Bube should (as the whole city says) be defiant calling from the window above and letting letters fall, and for whom it would be due to come before me in the chancel, thereto desiring (although I do know who the person would be )to plead for the miserable man , who is forsaken by all and who no one accepts; you lie (so I say) since I and the assistants et al are here.And the wife and her friends express great defiance as if she had done nothing evil.

Therefore, my conscience proves to my submissive sworn loyalty to ECFG , I humbly appeal that no matter how holy and good it appears that ECFG would make a delay until ECFG himself can come here and firmly understand the matters; since he can well that long sit in corporal imprisonment. May ECFG graciously regard in the best way this writing; as I may be angry without reason; so that afterward one might say: Who would have thought it! and we must be rebuked. What they have buried I will let go; however because they have for a year and one half let it be said that their child was buried and remained silent so they would let him be buried and dead were the child to live as long as Methuselah.ECFG would regard my writing as the shirt,overcoat, and jacket but consider your honor and rumors throughout the land , church and congregations. Herwith be commended to God,Amen. Thursday after James (26 July) 1537. ECFG's submissive Martin Luther.

N.B. Difficult one to translate. Check it out with the experts. Just learned from Luther Index and Farkasag that ML thinks that his writing might be regarded as the "Mantel,Hemd oder Rock" means according to Weimar means " entirely as you please" as I translate the note. Interesting idiom!

2011-09-09T12:17:00.001-05:00

The best a German friend of mine can tell is it means someone who buries dogs. What that implies in the language or the culture of the time is another issue. It could stem from the old German “die hunde” meaning treasure. It could refer to the crux or root of the matter. Consider this old German phrase “Da Liegt der Hund begraben” meaning, “That’s the root of the matter,” or “That’s where the shoe pinches” in English express (not literal translation).

Best wishes,

Justin Dragosani-Brantingham

From: don schoewe [mailto:nschowe@wiktel.com]
Sent: Saturday, September 03, 2011 9:20 AM
To: Matthew Schoewe; rbehs@yahoo.com; Tawnya Schoewe; Nick Schoewe; Justin Dragosani-Brantingham; Wohlers, Richard
Subject: Hundbegraber

Hi, Rearchers, Little project for you if you click on the above subject i.e. " Hundbegraber " text of letter will appear, which I'm endeavoring to translate. It will say it can be translated but no luck.

At any rate ML writing to the Elector about M.Paulus imprisoned for a fake burial of a step-son but the same is accusing ML of being an Hundbegraber. Was heisst "H". Thanks if you have some spare time. Seems like burying dog means that "there lies the difficulty" idiomatically.DS

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2011-09-09T11:52:00.001-05:00

The Festival of the Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist

2011-08-29T21:32:00.000-05:00

The Festival of the Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist

Commemoration of Bernard of Clairvaux: Hymnwriter and Theologian | CyberBrethren-A Lutheran Blog

2011-08-19T10:25:00.000-05:00

Commemoration of Bernard of Clairvaux: Hymnwriter and Theologian | CyberBrethren-A Lutheran Blog

Minot

2011-08-19T07:41:00.000-05:00

2011-08-16T13:56:00.002-05:00

#2366- To Justus Menius
(St.Louis Edition heading: Plea for Caspar Glatz, pastor in Orlmunde, who was in danger of losing his parish)

To the highly regarded man, Herr Justus Menius, Visitor in Thuringia etc.
Grace and peace in Christ! You, my dear Justus and Friedrich Myconiius, you are visitors, and to you is entrusted the jurisdiction in Thuringia. For this reason the disposition of every pastor and every church depends upon you; thus in vain this is desired from me since I know absolutely nothing about this matter. Thus, I refer Herr Caspar Glatz , pastor in Orlamunde, to you, about which for whatever reason I do not know, approach has made to the Prince because his parish is in danger. Sadly and sighing he appealed to me, if nothing else that concern there might yet be that he only be heard. I have answered him: that is your office and Friedrich's. For this reason I request that you help the matter righteously and, according to your office whatever evidence you have about the same and as much evidence as you can, to bring it before the Prince. Then , just as I do not want him to be condemned unrighteously so also I want that his trustfulness be proved and which he may obtain. You know that we have a Prince who does not knowingly or willing receive empty words. I do do not envy his parish, do not wish him to be removed, and especially requested that a stipend be extended for a student of theology. Summing up, whatever else there be of other matters which trouble him I do not know. You know everything and can confer with Friedrich in this matter. Be it well with you in the LOrd. On the Tuesday after Margaretha (17. Juli) 1537. Your D. Martin Luther.

File:Francisco de Goya, Saturno devorando a su hijo (1819-1823).jpg - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

2011-07-22T13:34:00.000-05:00

File:Francisco de Goya, Saturno devorando a su hijo (1819-1823).jpg - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

#2365-To Wolfgang Fabricius Capito

2011-07-20T16:37:00.001-05:00

(The St. Louis Edition has this heading: About the edition of his (ML's) works and the gift to his wife.)

To the highly-renowned man, Herr Wolfgang Capito, Doctor of Theology, the very faithful servant in the church in Strassburg, in Christ, his very dear brother.
Grace and peace in Christ. Through this Franzofen, my dear Captio, whom you have commended to me, I wish to reply; perhaps what he himself has seen and heard he will want to relate himself. In reference to the gathering of my books in volumes I am very cool (frigidor) and not inclined (segnior), for this reason, because of my hunger, like that of Saturn, moved that they should all be devoured. (Saturn devoured his own children excepting Jupiter,Neptune,Pluto, Juno, Ceres,Picus etc). I acknowledge none to be my true book except beyond that on free will and the catechism. Yet , I have turned the matter over toi D. Caspar Cruciger if something should be done. My forboding,I say, is that you in this matter(Concordie?) are much wearied but at the same time I pray that our Christ will not permit your labors to be in vain. The Satan in Augsburg (likely the zwinglianer Michael Keller) has us badly portrayed but we exult in the one Who has begun His work; He will certainly in His time be present and for this reason we do not despair. Now I am convinced that you and Bucer are dealing clearly and uprightly and not only that but I am happy also that all and not I alone have that opinion, who have spoken to me or written if they have considered it.

My Catarina, for the golden ring, says thanks, about which I am indignant not having seen it and if it was included it was either stolen away by thieves or by your neglect (which I think unkikely although I put it forth) never included and lost because I am confident that this gift was an indication and presentation that happily sent that it is now certain that your church and ours stand in loving harmony; this makes my wife very sad. I write this so that you know that heart is completely in the hope of harmony. Christ will completely bring it to pass,Amen. However, I add this in addition: do not send anything further in the future to my wife, so that the sorrow will not be doubled, since Christ is enough for both sides.
Greet all of yours and ours manifoldly and determine to think the best of us as we also do of you. the The LOrd Jesus be the seal of this good will; to Whom be glory with the Father and Holy Spirit forever,Amen. The 9th of July 1537.Your Martin Luther.

#2264-To Johann Schreiner, Pastor in Grimma

2011-07-05T08:20:00.001-05:00

To the worthy Herr Magister Johann Schreiner, Head-pastor in Grimma and Superintendent, in Christ my favored friend.
Grace and peace in Christ. My dear Magister and Head-Pastor! It is said yet, whether Spalatin wants to or not,that the noble people and who they are, that one cannot portray a head-pastor as they desire, and should thank God that they the pure Word might hear from one book letter for letter because aforetimes under the Pope they had to hear the devil's farts and filth and paid dearly for it. Can the noble people virtual Doctor Martinus and M. Philippus create out of such beggar-servitude? Do they want to have a virtual St. Augustine and Ambrose which they may fashion themself? If a head-pastor his Lord Christ sufficient and faithful is, though not remarkable,the nobles should agree, is acceptable to Christ.Must yet a Prince in his world regiment be satisfied if amongst the entire nobility finds three workables and must be patient with the majority. They want everything to be sorted out, but not themselves yet they might be.
Such matter you should in your area determine since we are without that overwhelmed without rest or peace from matters in other places. Let this letter come before Princes and Lords, or wherever, I have nothing against that. Feria 2. after Kiliani (9 July), Anno 1537. Martinus Luther.

#2360-To Dorothea Joerger

2011-05-30T15:21:00.002-05:00

Grace and Peace in Christ. Noble, virtuos woman. Because Mr. Andreas in order to serve you,has indicated intention to serve you, I plead you would favorably have him commended to you; he is, yes, as you know a pious man, and he has concern, that he there may have more danger and bring you into danger with him and you will well know how to advise should there need arise. I have advised him whether he should have such concern.Christ, or dear LOrd be with you and bless you together with all of yours in His holy calling ,Amen. M. Stiefel, has, when I write to you, asked that I should for his sake very much greet you and request you pater noster (our fathers). It goes,praise God, well. Sunday after Trinity (3 June 1537. Martinus Luther,D.

#2358-To Conrad Cordatus, Pastor in Niemeck

2011-05-21T09:54:00.003-05:00

Grace and peace in Christ! Your call to my father's-city Eisleben would very much please me, my dear Cordatus, since there you would be an effective opponent against Wicel, whom you hate with an holy and upright hate ; only you should previous to going take everything in consideration; so that if you are pleased you can do it without regret of forsaking the Niemeck corner. What God ordains will happen and it will please me . Also, perhaps there a healing wind will blow rather than the swamp-air which, day and night, is purified by fire.

I say to God thanks that your health has been restored. However, I beg you that you will dampen your suspicion which I know not imagines so many illnesses. You know the proverb: The imagination brings it about so that it is true (Imaginatio facit casum). On account of this you must take care the thoughts to control and not accept them. I must also do this. Since our adversary the devil goes about us not only that he may destroy the soul but also make our body dull by the thoughts of the soul which he night also kill as he knows that the body's health is dependent on the thoughts of the soul as one says: "A good disposition for the sake of the body". and (Proverbs 17:22) :" A troubled disposition dries the bones, a joyful heart makes life delightful." Thus I instruct you although meanwhile I must teach myself as Paul in the letter to the Romans (2:21) portrays the Jews. Be it right well with you in the LOrd. On the second Pentecost Day (21 May) year 1537. Martin Luther.

N>B. I believe Cordatus did one of the editions of ML's Table Talks. Right?

2011-04-07T13:27:00.000-05:00

#2354-to Justus Jonas

2011-04-07T12:15:00.002-05:00

To the arch-bishop Justus Jonas. Grace and peace in the LOrd! There is a Paul von Rachwitz with me. whom you a certain house in Bitterfeld, as he says, formerly belonged to church-properties (eclessiatica), but already for the third time as has been sold,which is to be freed with the return of the purchase price decided to deprive him of, and he has pleaded with me to intervene for him so that it would not be necessary for him to go away or change his dwelling. I, though I know you do everything with the highest of equity, would yet plead for the proper good of the man whether he might yet be permitted the house. For this reason I ask you that with your co-bishops do what might be proper. It is necessary that I somewhat hesitatingly appeal since he is a relative of my wife and the husband of a certain Nun so that it does not give the appearance that I seek what is improper but yet I do not want to refuse those relations who have been commended to me. Be it well with you in the LOrd. Given on the 12 April Anno 1537. Your Martin Luther.

N.B. Note says the Nun was a "Witscherin des Geschlects".

#2353-To Duke Barnim of Pomerania in collaboration with Bugenhagen

2011-03-23T10:23:00.010-05:00

Grace and peace of God through Christ, our LOrd. Illustrious,high-born Prince, gracious lord! Upon EFG's writing to us, as it was at length, that M.Paulus of Rohda was by us urged from E.G.' lands to take up service at another place, which EFG was not willing for previous given reasons, and which we the above named M.Paulus be allowed such permission ,with gracious pleas, the cause and burden be taken from him: we want EFG not to regard the report as truthful that we the above named M.Paulus either advised nor otherwise supported that he should go from the lands of EFG but that before this time, over several years ,he should stay there with earnest admonishments that he should remain at Stettin so that the doctrine of the Gospels should not go under, also rebellion and other burdens which could otherwise result would be averted that he up to now had given honor to the Gospel and benefited the city Stettin as being of good will.
Although he oftentimes complained of his trouble and need that would make it difficult for him to remain by them in poverty and danger while the Gospel is yet persecuted and especially because he wanted yet to install good ordinances in the church and after they now have been made also executed and followed so they would be working and might happen, should still remain and also said that after he with Schulden verhaftet, his trouble to improve; he however hoped thereto in vain, and that finally he was forced since he often listened, he must betake himself to another place, which we did know what to recommend since because we have no other place it is not difficult to remain but in poverty,danger and disrespect.Because now everything which M.Paulus brought forward was not considered, he finally, without our knowing about it, before he sent to EFG at Schmalkalden openly desired permission and acceptance and declined to further serve the city of Stettin and that according to Christ had good cause amidst such disrespect. Thereafter when an honorable delegation from the city of Lueneberg was sent which during our absence from Wittenberg traveled to Schmalkalden and from the above named city wegen us requested that they be provided with a superintendent to care for them which they also had requested four years but we previously did not have such a person ; and after M.Paulus at Schmalkalden presented to his need, and we know, as also EFG in his writing gave witness of him that he had sufficiently in his office had done godly and christianly in the matter so that the blame was not him that he should leave Stettin and we also had no other person to indicate to those of Luneberg although we were not happy that he must leave the city of Stettin: we yet let it happen after that he is now free that should be assigned to the city of Luneberg as we to them have also notified; we want to humbly remind EFG that with great understanding well consider how one could excuse that after the poor man M.Paulus serve so faithfully also in the persecution of the Gospel being in great danger,poverty and misery, and in earnestness,counsel, and help against rebellion and other bad-counse (Unrath) to peace and unity, andto EFG and authority behaved in obedience as EFG knows better himself. That he should for such loyal service and endeavor should now by EFG so entangled that he may not turn away from EFG's lands and should be guilty and to suffer such misery not only as to sustenance but also a burdened conscience and not a trace for betterment by any of yours and this forever: EFG can well consider that not a slightest handworker would go to EFG's lands to say nothing of a foreign preacher would want anymore to come to Pommerania.

Now the good M.Paulus has not broken any law that he should be held there against his will. EFG should also graciously have regard to us since we know that EFG had no bad opinion; May EFG also consider that such preachers would stay in your lands only if would be supported so that they may remain.Beyond this EFG should herein consider that EFG was never obligated to reward M.Paulus with service or money except for the city of Stettin.now it is unlikely that they might give him permission, if they would want to, and he must continually be restless and sit on the spring and should not again have power to attain permission from them whenever he has need. That, however, EFG, desires us to release from the service is not for us to do; also it is not for us to change such acceptance which he made in our presence before an honorable delegation; to which we neither advised him nor ordered, except that we heard that he had received permission from the city of Stettin and was now free to betake himself and we saw he was inclined to Luneberg we had to permit and that he so desired then he could better himself and such we on his behalf have written to the Council of Luneberg. If, however, M.Paulus, with improvement in the situation, as EFG and the city Stettin offer, would be willing to stay with them and EFG or the city of Stettin from city of Luneberg obtain +knowledge that they would release M.Paulus from his acceptance: we would not oppose that and indeed we would be happy and heartily want the city and the entire land of EFG provided with good preachers. And we are in this case and recognize our responsibility to serve EFG and others to best of our ability for the furtherance of the Gospel. Thus EFG should completely see that our final opinion, in service to EFG and the city of Stettin, that we would be happy to see M.Paulus to stay there, to the extent, as said, that he would endure it; if also the city of Luneberg releases him his acceptance we will earnestly turn our efforts to provide them with another Superintendent although for the previous four years that was not able to do. What M.Paulus, for his own person, has in mind we however, cannot know since he has not written and therefore we put it up to him what he would do. Summing up, we leave this EFG's great understanding that if M.Paulus is willing to stay whether it be regarding as necessary either by EFG or the city of Stettin, or the Prince of Luneberg that this matter would require the use of a Mediatorwhich the city of Luneberg may support so that we the consent have sought the consent of those from Luneberg and that of M.Paulus, not been brittle, so that the self-same city might complain against us that what we have agreed to we have not kept. Herewith we commend EFG to God's grace and we are always will and ready to serve EFG. Dated at Wittenberg on the Friday after Pascha (6 April) Anno 1537. EFG's willing Martinus Luther,D., and submissively Johannes Bugenhagen Pommer,D,

Innthal

2011-03-13T09:22:00.002-05:00

#2352- Luther's Witness that he yet lives.

2011-03-13T07:19:00.003-05:00

( A rumor out of Italy came to Hall in Innthal that Luther had died and the inscription over his grave was in German, Hebrew,Greek and Latin. The Papists were very happy about this. Since many were troubled about this report a messenger was sent to obtain a copy of this inscription. He finds Luther alive and requests that he might write something to give to those who are troubled by the report of his death. ML says: "That is a wonderful thing; I haven't yet written about my burial on any day." and then the following:)

I Doctor Martin Luther confess with this my handwriting that I am with one mind with the devil, the Pope, and all my enemies. Since they would be happy if I had died, and I would gladly give them such joy and could well have died in Schmalkalden, but God had not yet established such joy. He will do it sooner than they think and not to their great joy and they will then sing:Ach, that Luther would yet live! That is a copy from my grave in German, Greek,Latin and Hebrew.

(The above is thought to have been written from Wittenberg in March of 1537 or later.)

#2348-ML's First Will-1537

2011-03-03T06:54:00.005-06:00

(The superscription of this document in Vol. 21b of the St.Louis Edition,pg.2157-58, has this from Bugenhagen): "Confession and Testament of our highly-honorable father,D.Luther in Gotha in the night when he had no hope in the decrease of his bodily strength and that he would live before day. By me Pomeranus only. Since others were not permitted." He wrote this, with his own hand, on the day after the Octave after Easter,Apr.9,1537. Bugenhagen wrote this that the Prince might see it. The Prince had sent for Kette to ride to Schmalkalden as it was thought that Luther might die due to a severe blockage of the bladder. ML was there to confer with other church leaders and secular leaders how to proceed in relations to the Emperor and Pope. Wonderfully, Luther was relieved on Feb.27, 1537 and was headed back to Wittenberg and composed this on the way back at Gotha on the 28 of February 1537 after writing to Melancthon and Kette telling of his relief and telling Kette to ride back to Wittenberg and he would see her there. )

"I know, God be praised, that I have done right in storming the Papacy with God's Word. Since it was blasphemy etc. of God, of Christ and of the Gospels."

Pray for me my very dear Philipp (Philippulum), Jonas, and Cruciger that you may forgive me what I ever only have sinned against you.

Comfort my Kaethe, that she may bear it, she was with me for twelve joyful years. She not only served me as wife but also as a servant. God will repay her! You, however, will care for her and the children so much as there is concern.

Speak a greeting to the Lord Diacone of our church for me. "The pious citizens of Wittenberg have often served me".

Say to the Elector and my Lord Landgraf in my name, that they should not be disturbed because of this and similar outcries of the opponents:"You rob the spiritual goods" etc. since they do not rob as certain other people. Since I see that they demonstrate concern with these goods as religion requires. If beyond this something fortuitous comes who should presume to have it before them? This is due to the Princes not to the papal villains. Command them in my name that in confidence in God that they do everything confidently for the cause of the Gospel whatever the Holy Spirit inspires them to do; I do not prescribe to the manner and way. The merciful God strengthen them that they remain in the true doctrine and say thanks for that they have been freed from the anti-christ. I have, in prayer, earnestly commended them and hope that He will preserve them that they do not again give the papal godlessness any place. Since they also are after all sinners in many matters and not pure in everything and for this the opponents will reproach them and likely accuse, so should they yet on the goodness of the LOrd trust. This is nothing in comparison with the godlessness, the blasphemies, the hatefulness, the murderous deeds etc. of the anti-christian opponents from whom the divine mercifulness has freed them. Therefore they should be strong and continue in the Name of the LOrd.

I am now ready to die, if the LOrd wills. I might however live till Pentecost so that I may accuse even harder this Roman beast and his kingdom before the world yet. This I will do, if I live; I will have no need of any spurs. Others who come after me will deal much rougher with that beast although I will deal roughly with some things if I live.

Herewith I commend my soul to the Father and my LOrd Jesus Christ,Whom I preached and confessed on earth.

N.B. When the Germans speak of the Lord God they print "HErr" and of princes and nobles etc."Herr" so I refer to God as "LOrd".

#2348-ML's First Will-1537

2011-03-03T06:54:00.000-06:00

#2347-ML to Kette from Gotha

2011-03-02T09:23:00.006-06:00

Grace and peace in Christ! You may for awhile rent a different horse according your need, dear Kaethe, since my gracious Lord will keep your horse and send it back home with M.Philipp. Yesterday I broke away from Schmalkalden going on the own wagon of M.G.H. The reason is that for over three days here I was not well. and up to this night from the first Sunday (Feb.18) on not a drop of water ran from me, having no rest or sleep, nor could I drink or was able to eat. In sum, I became dead and commended you and the little child to God and my good Lord as I would nevermore see you; I pitied you very much, however, I was appointed for the grave. Now one has prayed so hard for me to God that the tears of many people have made it possible that this night God opened the exit of the bladder for me and in two hours well a Stuebigen has been let out from me and I am thinking I have again been born anew.

Therefore I thank God and have the child and Aunt Lena thank the right Father; since you would have certainly lost this father. The pious Prince has run,rode,fetched and endeavored with all possibilities to the greatest degree attempted to help me; however, it was not meant to be. Your art with the manure also did not help. God has done a miracle on me and does yet by the prayers of pious people.

This I therefore write to you since I consider that my gracious Lord has commanded the Landvogt to send you towards me that you previously may talk with me oor see me should I die along the way; that is not now necessary and you may well stay at home, because God has so richly helped me so that I look forward to come to you. Today we are laying over at Gotha. I have already written and marvel that nothing has come to you. Thursday after Reminiciere (27 Febr.) 1537 Martinus Luther.

Nota Bene: As to the translation of the amount (Stuebigen) by the bladder I don't what that measure is.

LOrd like this is the LOrd God. Lord is for earthly lords. M.G.H. is my gracious lord. What is "manure art" (Kunst Mist) ? According to the Luther Index (Agnes Farkas) the Weimar note says that this was probably a drink prepared from Pferdapfeln and Knoblach i.e. horse manure and a root(garlic?0 which Kette gave to a leader of the Prince to be delivered to ML in his distress which worked not.

#2346-ML to Melanchthon at Schmalkalden from Tambach

2011-03-01T18:28:00.002-06:00

"My heart-dear Magister Philippus Melanchthon" Praise be to God and the Father of our LOrd Jesus Chrsit, the Father of mercy and all consolation. ,my dearest Philippus, whose in this second hour of the night have had your prayers and tears received mercy, and for me the urine flowed and the bladder opened, actually without great effort, since (as you know) that I stood up making a futile great effort. Almost for a quarter of this hour had passed almost eight times urine had passed , each time more than a poured amount (sextans=pint) passed , so that I already have let out more than one full can (cantharum=Gallone). So I am required by joy to number this water, which otherwise would be bad but to me exceedingly valuable. For this reason I did want to hold back any longer such to my exceedingly loving and gracious Herr and to all others. Since I have well experienced how heartily they have wanted to help me. It proceeds now, to life or to death, since I have not only come out of the box onto firmer ground but also the grace received the source of silver. Since comfort requires that I also write this letter (although very hastily) alternating between passing urine and writing. Otherwise this messenger Schlaginhaufen (Ochloplectes) have reported orally, since he was not to hold up here, so that he might hurry to you. Thank, with me, the Father of grace and every good , that He would bring to completion His work. Ourselves, let us learn from this example to pray and to venture hope from heaven for help. "God preserve you all" and tread Satan under your feet with those bound to him, the horrors of the Roman court, Amen. Approximately the middle point of the third hour of the night,1537 from Tambach, the place of my blessing, since this is my Pniel (Phanuel) [Genesis 32:30], on which God has appeared to me. Your Martin Luther. Living, O Pope, is your pest, dying to bring you to death. Stranger, if you only can, flee the Hessian beggars.

Pestis eram vivus, moriens ero mors tua, Papa. Hospes,Hassiacis, quantumpotes, aufuge lectis .

#2345-To Aegidius Mechler, Preacher in Erfurt

2011-02-18T14:16:00.000-06:00

To the ,in Christ, the highly honorable mann, Herrn Aegidius, servant of the Word in the church at Erfurt,his brother in the LOrd.
Grace and peace in Christ. It has been presented to me by Herr Johann Lang that you, my dear Aegidius by the Graf Albrect have been called away, however I plead with you for the sake of Christ that you will not leave the church in Erfurt, mainly in these momentous times, since I do not know how it will turn out as God has wonderful things in mind. It will be in a short time in which one will see what this monstrous mountain of the announced Council will give birth to.If it will bear a ridiculous mouse so you would not naturally want to leave that place; if it bears a mountain or hilll so would you much rather that you had that you had yielded. I know, what I say, that the same position will remain which to you was offered , and one much better. Christ will recognize your poverty and afterward make you rich. After you have borne so much for so many years which you have borne so endure it yet for another half or an entire year; then I will either call you away (if I remain alive) or others will if Erfurt doesn't deal with you differently. Be well with you and pray for me, and yet more for the cause of God. From Schmalkald on the 25 of February anno 1537. Your Martin Luther.

N.B. Today is February 18 the day of the Luther's death in 1546. Seems like even in 1537 he anticipated it.

Georg Spalatin /Burkhardt

2011-02-03T06:29:00.001-06:00

#2342-ML from Schmalkalden to Jonas on Valentine Day 1537

2011-02-02T06:57:00.003-06:00

To the highly renown man, Herr Justus Jonas, D. of Theology and very faithful servant of God, in the LOrd my very dear brother.

Grace and peace in Christ! Yesterday, I have written to you, my dear Jonas, namely on the day before Valentin; today I write to you again on the day of Valentin itself since the messenger disapeared. The saint Valentine has in this night began to heal me and make me healthy (valentulum) from the stone; likely not that Valentin, idol of the fallen-seekers is, but the one and true Valentin Who saves us and on Whom we hope. Therefore I create the hope that I finally by His grace will be made healthy.

It is now the eighth day we have settled here or rather more are in suspense; all are in this place and in the stay satiated and long for the return. Since we are nothing more than an idle pile of manure.The Prince and cities are dealing with other things than what we thought about, also without us. Christ give their deliberations and undertakings blessings.

D.Benedict and D.Bleikard have become very bitter enemies of the Pope. Ei! How terribly they mangle him in his own decrees etc.; that is, orally. The Legat of the Emperor came yesterday. Doctor Held et al will likely be heard today. We are beggars here. With the Landgraf and the Duke of Wuerttenberg we eat bread ( since he has the best baker and breads), with the Nuernbergers we drink wine, from the Court we receive meats and fish. However, from the master-teacher I have learned that strong and heavy breads cause the stone; likely I must also experience this. Of that sort is the bread of the Court and of the market here. They have very good trout (Variolos) but they cook the same in water together with the other fish with the same brew. "O delightful eating!" For this reason I lively demand of them "about that" cooking " of the world" etc. and we will deliver it to the Nuernbrgerer kitchen to cook. Our Prince has every concern for us and prays that it will be granted that we are to receive a carefully considered decision but that is taken away and harm done by the Suffetiern,, the Metiern,the Retiern and Letiern according to the way of the Court. Beyond that I have nothing that I can write. Be it right well with you in LOrd and pray for us. From Chalcis on the Day of St. Valentine (14 Febr.) 1537. Your Martin Luther.

Nota Bene: Benedict and Bleikard are Counselors of the Elector. Luther plays onValentine and the Latin word for healing (valere). The letter for the day before is not extant. ML once asked his son who was the least clean cook in the world and replied a "cook in the world." The Suffetiern etc. are imaginary names for the great ones around the Court with undue influence. Chalcis where the great Council of Chalcedon was held is ML's name for Schmalkalden.

#2339-ML to Jonas in a classical mode

2011-01-26T10:14:00.008-06:00

Grace and peace in the LOrd! Although, I believe, this is somewhat slow in coming to you,my good Jonas, I yet wanted you to know that we hope at this hour you again are well from the stone and that our prayers have been heard. Coming here again is the rumor that the most-holy Legate, namely, he from Aix of Nuerenberg has made straightway his way to our Prince. This was written to our Prince from Coburg who replied to them that if should come that he advised to go to Schmalkalden. There he will be expected if it is true that he is coming. If, I say,his coming is sure, he is coming without doubt not with fear of the Turks, but with advice and arrangement with the Turks to seek help,etc. Since what otherwise are the Lutherans but sheep for the slaughter; if this raging murderer likely needs their help? However, we will see. The Chancellor of the Emperor, Doctor Matthias Held, will also be there and perhaps this convention will be greater than those on both sides have believed. God grant that it will be a right Council.

There is here a Domherr from Zeitz, however one separated from his Order as he has taken a wife; he swore and assured, as much as he could, that this convention will have scholarly men (including himself) at the Council of Mantua. I write this to console you. Longing for you is extraordinary. Be it well with you and visit Meinigen and also the Pommeranian Rom with its little full citizenship. We are well and happy, yes, we are supported royally by the Prince since we are being hosted at his castles in Grimma and Altenburg with the best care. We hope to be the guests of the ancient Pylades and Theseus. We have, as is our practice (as you know) put our joking with him into verse. I am sending to you mine, M.Philippus his also, naturally as an Homer. However, my childish verse is as follows: As your deeds , Georg, please the LOrd very much, so may this strange cohort please you. To the famous Schmalkald we are going to assemble. God's matter is great, so we urge you to travel there, worthy man, you strongly share in the matter, come with us, as head and fellow-traveler, both. Your Martin Luther,D.

NOTES: Looks like Spalatin is called Theseus. But Pylades wouldn't be someone like the brother of Orestes? In the Latin verse, which I may print sometime, Schmalkald is Chalcida thinking that Schmalkald is comparable to the great Council of Chalcedon. Right, so what do you think?Here goes the Latin "childish" verse of ML: Ut tua sunt Christo gratissima facta, Georgi, Sic grata cohors haec peregrina tibi. Tendimus ad celebrem pro nostro Chalcida coetu. Magna Dei cogit causa per istud iter. Tu quoque tantarum pars magna, vir optima, rerum,Nobiscucum ,venies duxque comesque viae. The Council of Trent was originally scheduled to be in Mantua as the Council of 1459 but then rescheduled to Trent.Evidently there was long standing dispute about Pommerania being a Roman bishopric. Don't see the connection with Meinigen, tho. Both ML and Jonas had either kidney or gall stones or bothl

#2337-ML to his son Johann

2011-01-17T15:23:00.002-06:00

Grace and peace in the LOrd! Previously you have to me, my dearest son, written letters to me about your studies. If you continue, you do to me, your father,who loves you,something acceptable.but also something beneficial to you mostly,so that you do not get out of the practice. For this reason take care that what you have begun you earnestly carry forward.Since God, Who has commanded that children be obedient to their parents,has also promised this blessing to the children. See that you solely and only have this in your eyes and that you do not to any sort of evil example turn . Since the very same God has also threatened a curse to the disobedient children. Fear therefore God, Who promises and threats to the destruction of the evil disperses, yet quickly to the salvation of the good fulfills. Fear, therefore, God ,listen to your parents who surely want the best for you and flee harmful and dishonorable conversation. Your Mother greets you from the heart, likewise "aunt Lena" , and also your sister and brother who also a happy continuance and completion of your studies await. The mother has commanded that you greet the teacher and his wife. So when you are here either in Lent or in the joyful celebration it might be that I am meanwhile away. "Aunt Lena" prays very much about this.Be it well with you, my dear son, and learn and listen to the reminders of good people. The LOrd be with you. Given on the Saturday after the Conversion of Paul (27 Janurar) 1537 (1543)

Nota Bene: Nice letter for this time of the year when the Conversion of Paul is observed. Looks like it is probably 1543 as Johann studied in Torgau beginning in August of 1542 and ML had yet M. Franciscus as Hofmeister at home for his children up to 1539. So was denken Sie an?

2010-04-25T20:56:00.000-05:00

#2333-Elector Johann Friedrich to Luther

To begin with, our greetings and gracious intent. Worthy, dear devout one! We have your writing together with the Articles which you, together with the other theologians, your brothers in office have put together and have received them from M.Spalatin and say thanks to God the Almighty and our LOrd Christ that He has given you health and provided you with strength to complete such Articles so Christianly,pure and clear and also that He has given you grace that harmoniously,Christianly, and brotherly, and friendly arrived at them and received also your industry and labor so therein good has been Christendom in general toward gracious pleasusre and thanks and find that in nothing your courage has changed from what you always have taught,preached and written consistently resting and building on our LOrd Christ so that the gates of hell cannot destroy and also will remain before the Pope, Council, and those who adhere to them. The Almighty God grant us all through our LOrd Christ grace that we in constant, truthful faith may abide and never through human fear or favor turn away from them. We can well know that there are others who speak of the same and similar divine dealings who in neglect of the Holy Gospel purely and plainly preached in and written will bring forth strife,danger and burdens.However, these people who question and His alone-saving Word and burden themselves thereby it is well to consider what they lose and not to make too much of it since they are living under the Papacy or the Turk when they only have peace,rest,and days from their Mammon and from time to time might scratch up more . We know however, praise God, that the matters, as you have brought out from God’s Word, we confess along with you, that these are divine matters ,not human, and should be confessed before the world and not denied, and we should not partake with them because of frightful speech so that if we do not confess Him before the world He will not confess us before His heavenly Father. Therefore it is the situation that with the placing of these Articles that no one can overthrow divine truth and they also are so clearly and understandable we as lay people, praise God , as with the previous Augsburg Confession which we held to be right, Christian and we understand and know to hold to no other further counsel so after we have read the Articles through a second time we take them to be godly,Christian and right and want also the same to confess before a Council, also before the whole world and also where it is possible publicly and freely confessed and will confess and we pray to God that He will give grace to our brothers and also us and our descendants that we constantly and without wavering prevail and may abide.

Concerning the venture and what comes for our land,people and also other persons we bring before God who has said that the hairs of our head are all numbered and we cannot lose them without His divine will: He will also make and order the course on behalf of our brother, us and our children,also the land and people according to His divine will as we place it before His will since He has chosen us to be Princes. If it His will He will support us therein well however if it is not His well it helps not to be anxious about danger as He will as it pleases Him make it well and we commend it to your prayer and those of other Christians.

That we so vehemently oppose the Pope does not concern us in the least. That we should for the sake of good opinion and for the sake of peace , as M.Philippus proposes, let one be a Lord who is over our Bishops, Pastors, Preachers, to do His bidding sets us on a course burdensome because He will yet not rest nor his successors until he has destroyed and rooted out us and our descendants because God’s Word has freed and saved us so that proposal is not beneficial.
Should we in our wisdom having been freed from the Babylonian Captivity by God it would be tempting God if we were again to venture somethin so filled with danger would bring us from God to a destiny that, without doubt, could have avoided. We have not wanted to keep from our gracious regard for your writing and we hope that our God will grant you grace, strength and health that you may make the trip with us to Smalkald and these other matters following He will help to bring to a good end. Dated, Saturday after the Three Kings (Jan.7) 1537 to D.Luther

#2332-ML to Elector Johann Friedrich on Schmalkald

2010-03-30T04:36:00.003-05:00

To the most illustrious,high-born Prince and Lord, Lord Johann Friedrich,Duke in Saxony, Arch-marshall of the Holy Roman Empire and Elector, Landgraf Thuringia and Markgraf in Meissen, my most gracious Lord.
Grace and peace in Christ and my poor Pater Noster etc. Most illustrious, high-born Prince, Most gracious Lord! Upon ECFG's writing and order I have ordered that on the day of the Innocents (28 Dec.1536) or soon thereafter Mr Nicolas Amsdorf, M.Eisleben and M.Spalatin would come here (since Mr. Just) and Friedrich are situated too far away). To them I have put before the Articles which I myself have put down (according to ECFG's command), and dwelt several days over on account of my weakness, which is,I think, come upon me by Satan, but otherwise I had hope to do it in one day. And as the above have verified the same and subscribed with their own hand I am sending them with our co-brother and good friend, M.Georg Spalatin, to give over to ECFG and they all have requested that I do so. I plead also humbly on behalf of all since several of ours have the suspicion and say so that we Pfaffen (as we are called) want to put in danger our Princes and Lords with their peoples on account of our stiff-necked undertaking etc., that ECFG would graciously be assured that should even the most insignificant,to say nothing of ECFG and other Lords, lands and people be put in danger we would rather take (the danger) only to ourselves alone. Therefore ECFG would know well how far and wide would adopt these articles; we only want to have the burden and no one else and everyone have the freedom to be burdened with them or not. Herewith ECFG be commended to the dear God. Mid-week after the New Year (3 Jan.) 1537. ECFG's obedient Martinus Luther,D.
Nota Bene: Mr Just is Justus Menius of Erfurt and Fredrich is Friedrich Myconius of Gotha. The Elector didn't want M. Eisleben to be at Schmalkald but be the court preacher or involved with the Visitation.

Anna von der Dame

2010-03-26T10:32:00.000-05:00

#2329-To Elector Johann Friedrich for Anna von der Dame by ML

G.(grace) u.(and) peace in Christ and my poor Pater-Unser (Lord’s Prayer). Illustrious,high-born Prince, most gracious
Lord!. Once more an appeal for the good Frau Hanna von der Dame who since the previous three years was driven from
the lands of Duke Georg on account of the Gospel and under the wing of ECFG came to a Vorwerklein (?) granted in the book
of the cloister for three years, as ECFG is well mindful of. Now is the time of the coming Christmas-tide and though there are
many hands (for extending help?) they have nothing of their own or any certainty unless ECFG looks upon their misery and grants
a few more years for their good (Gutlein) , until they can secure something of their own. And it may be that there are some
among us who have little mercy for such expelled people and they would rather keep everything for their own sack. To that it is my humble request that ECFG would further extend your grace and take it up earnestly and not permit the good people to be
disappointed although likely someone may have intentions to help them. It is just because she has suffered so much for the sake
of Christ and she is pious so she should receive renewal and comfort under ECFG.Our dear Lord God grant ECFG to do according to his very best will. ECFG’s humble Mart.Luther.

N.B. Anna’s husband Franz von der Dame was evidently with her in being expelled from Ducal Saxony.

Guess Who, From left to right

2010-03-17T03:10:00.001-05:00

2010-03-15T10:39:00.000-05:00

#2327-To Anton Lauterbach in Leisnig

To the highly honorable brother in Christ, Herr Anton Lauterbach, the faithful and pure servant of the Word in the church in Leisnig.

Grace and peace in Christ! Thus you should do, my dear Anton: Be strong in quietness and hope (Jermiah 30:15) and you will through Christ overcome this word-distorter (Grammaticosopphistam) “with quietness one can address much” especially in such matters until we free you in an appropriate way from this calling and put you in another position as we are thoroughly considering. Meanwhile it is better and more honorable for you to suffer injustice from that one than to fight back. “The right will finally be found.”

Concerning Johann Guelden (Aureo Johanne) you have made me skeptical. It has been reported to me that he is a prisoner in the castle Leuchtenburg so it must be that this letter was written long before. May God turn him about and bring him again on the right path.

Permit me to greet your wife Agnes. Midweek in Christmastide (27 Dec.)1536 (1535).

N.B. New Year began on Christmas in those days. Leuchtenburg is in Saxony-Altenburg in the vicinity of Kahla.
On Jaunary 13,1536, Melanchthon held a hearing on Guelden and he was commended to the grace of the Elector. It is thought unlikely that he would have been held in prison until December 1536 as some have date ML’s letter in December of 1535.

##2238-Elector Johann Friedrich to Luther, Bugenhagen and Melanchthon.

To begin with: Our greetings. Honored, celebrate, dear devout and faithful ones! As we were with the high-born Prince, Lord Philip, Landgraf in Hesse, our friendly, dear cousin and brother, in Eisenach we together reflected on the dangerous scheduling of the Council announced by the present Pope to be at Mantua
And also on other matter concerning religion so we have set a day and time for the coming together of all our relatives at Schmakald in midweek after Agatha (7Feb.) in the nearest future or sometime soon and we also written to each esatate that on that day they bring one or two of their learned theologians as we
Have deliberated with our cousin and brother the Landgraf and agreed to do so that in the matter of the Council and whatever else pertains to our
Religion we may speak and decide in an impressive way. On that account we think it most beneficial for us to take three from our party along to that set day.
Therefore we would together physically in someway therfore consider that come to us on the Monday after the Conversion of Paul (Jan.29) so that you
Travel with us to Schmalkald for the appointed day to further the case and in obedient compliance and willing to what we want to do. Doing thus for us would
Be recognized as a special grace and favor. Date at Zeitz on the Sunday after the innocentum puerorum (death of innocent children) (Dec.31. Anno 1537 (1536).

Favor and goodness

2010-03-05T14:47:00.000-06:00

#2325-To Prince Joachim of Anhalt (Christmas comfort for the depressed Joachim)

Christ our dear Lord comfort EFG’s heart with His bodily becoming human which He has provided for the comfort and good will for all men as the dear angels today sing: “Glory be to God in the highest, peace on earth and good will toward men”. It may be, I hope, that EFG’s heart because of faith or of the Gospel have no doubt or sadness as it is know well known what the truth is as opposed to the devil and his Pope’s lies.When it stands well with doctrine and faith, so hell with all the devils fall upon us and is there anything more? What can trouble us but perhaps our sin and an evil conscience? However, Christ has taken that away for us although likel we daily sin. Who can terrify us except the devil? However, He who dwells in us is greater than he although also faith may be weak.The devil is holy and without sin but we are in need of a dear Savior; the devil may be sheer strength and has no need of anything of Christ’s strength and help! We should and want to be weak that Christ’s strength may dwell in us as S. Paul says: “Virtus Christi in infirmitate perficitur.” (Christ virtue is perfected in weakness). EFG has not yet denied or crucified the dear Lord., and should that happen nevertheless He abides gracious and also prayed for the crucifiers. Therefore EFG be comforted and strong in Christ against the evil spirit who can do nothing other than falsely trouble, terrify and murder. The dear Lord Jesus Christ be with EFG’s heart and not leave him without comfort.

The date is thought to be 25 December 1536.

2010-03-03T10:59:00.000-06:00

#2324-Observations on the calling of the Mantua Council and of the Opposition to the same.
(No signatures to this. Looks like Amsdorf subscrided to something similar to the Elector)

As the Pope or the Council especially summoned this party ad respndendum oder ad audiendum declarari etc ( to answer or to state having heard etc.) many can comfortably in this matter send everywhere that they have previously deliberated on the matter; whether the Summons, or with what protestation it should be received. If looks at the process of the Council of Constance and the like it might well be concluded that without doubt the preachers will be summoned although not equally the princes.

Whether this will the same Summons or not, we hold that it is in every way useful and necessary from this Party a message be sent to KM (royal majesty?) and writing to the Emperor and every Potentate and publicly let it be known we carefully, as much as possible, in this important, high matter take the opportunity to indicate and plead a way be considered that a right process is adopted to rightly serve the unity of Christendom,and how the forma literarum (pattern of writings?) may be most easily deliberated.

And thus a pattern (forma) must be put in place that harmonizes with all together agree upon and improved by the considerations of all and conducive to be brought into the light. It should also not be blamed on us; we want, with God’s help, according to the command of our most gracious Lord, do the same. However it falls out, as it may, it is yet beneficial that one comprehends and is prepared.

About an Opposition-Council it is our concern that in every way it is best not to hasten to that. Since an Opposition-Council has a greatly frightening appearance of establishing a schism and that one wants to be opposed to the whole world if not wanting to take to the battle field. That being so before undertaking such a greatly apparent opposition until one has openly come to an agreement on the matter. Previously also there must be an understanding of all positions harmoniously agreed to. Disunity among one another is not only ridiculous but among us a great disruption and a horror in other lands who otherwise might have good will toward us. Rather, it is necessary that there be general writings published that one may become cognizant of what is at stake and also warning that everyone in other princedoms and lands not go against us to that they be not guilty of innocent Christian blood. Also, that they do not strengthen unrighteous worship services and the public sins of the priests. Likewise,one must plead for the world to help that where matters are in dispute that cause common men to err and doubt that we in every way have concern that these same differences be brought to proper, consisten, fundamental and Christian unity. With such statements and the like one must be prepared but it is not yet time to speak and to hasten thereto. Therefore one cannot yet speak of a counter-Council. Our Process must be previously begun. Also, it is better that one waits to begin the efforts. Likewise this party is previously in harmony

Spalatin by Cranach the Elder

2010-02-23T13:15:00.001-06:00

2010-02-21T20:14:00.001-06:00

#2323-To Spalatin
To the highly renown man, Herr Georg Spalatin, Bishop of the Church in Meissen, in the Lord his very dear brother.

Grace and peace in Christ! God wants it so to be done, my worthy Spalatin, that according to the will of the Prince, to summon you here. Therefore I ask you that on the day of Innocent Children (Dec.28) or on the following day after the birth of Christ that you be here in order to deal with what must be dealt with. However, not at your expense when you are here. However, you might keep it to yourself, if you can, and give other reasons for your absence. Be it well with you.Your Martin Luther,D.

#2322-Cordatus to Luther

2010-02-21T02:33:00.002-06:00

To Doctor Martin Luther
Grace from God through Christ! That I did everything without you (to say nothing of contrary to you) in Wittenberg in the matters of faith to make right, considered wrong, I want you to know that tomorrow I am handing the said matter to the Rector which is to say that I am making a private matter public. Now also if the worthy (Magnificus) Herr Rector and the theologians themselves who up to now stood firm in sound doctrine, from we all have learned, do not make a judgment over my written position (actione) or want to speak nor also concerning the offense of D.Cruciger and all his followers to oppose and bring about a proper ending then I will hand over it to the Prince for a judgment; the reasons for my great opposition I will bring before the College of Theologians. Be it right well with you and rejoice that your great gifts again will be arrayed for the battle of God. From Niemeck, the 16th of December. Conr.Cordatus.

Send back to me, worthy father, the position since I must have that outcome so that tomorrow can also speak with C ruciger so that I can know right from the start, to be sure, whether he wants to defend his lecture.

Sybille of Cleves, wife of Johann Friedrich

2010-02-21T02:28:00.001-06:00

Elector Johann Friedrich of Saxony by Titian

2010-02-20T19:34:00.001-06:00

2010-02-19T09:41:00.000-06:00

#2320-Elector Johann Friedrich to Luther and the other theologians.

First of all, our greetings. Honorable, worthy and scholarly, dear devout and loyal ones! After we were in Wittenberg for a few days we gave our position on the proposals before the future Council (Council of Mantua) whereupon you gave us your consideration on several of the Articles which we read aloud and noted with gracious favor. Because the Articles and parts of Christian teaching and religion range insofar as those promote and increase peace and unity or may not and should not be held, it is our gracious desire that you, Doctor Martin would take in hand the same points and articles and state them everywhere in what way and how far they are responsible to God and with good conscience in accordance with Christian love will support and increase peace and unity in Christendom and whereupon the opposition will finally be quieted or remain or not and when you have completed the same and assembled the same and pondered them especially also with Licentiat Amsdorf, Magister Eisleben, and several others including our dear friendly brothers Duke Johan Ernst of Saxony princedom preachers and those learned in the Holy Scriptures with your thoughts, giving this command to you under our cost comparing the same and having come to unity to subscribe to each of them. And if you should in one or several you do not have agreement you would in writing also indicate the reason to us and the others sending it everywhere.

And since this is the very highest and important matter upon which rests the glory of God and the welfare of Christianity in general and concerns very much as we also recently have indicated to the group that in these things there should be no delay it is our gracious desire that you look to this matter, deal with it and complete it with the greatest zeal and ingeheim and that you give your index and considerations to us no later than around the Conversion of Paul (Jan.25) so in the purest way you will demonstrate your devotion to the increase of the glory of God and His salvific Word and will extend to us your gracious favor and we are inclined to you with grace and goodness. Dated at Torgau on the Monday after Nicholas (11 Dec.) Anno 1536.

Nota bene: The language of the Electoral Court is very difficult with its long sentences and phrases. I would like to see an expert’s translation of the above.

2010-02-17T09:45:00.001-06:00

2317-Conrad Cordatus to Luther
In great extremity to D.Martin Luther.
Grace with God the Father through Christ!
The more I deal with you, honorable father, with writing and speaking about this situation the more I am disturbed and anguished in my outlook and conscience since by you and the college of theologians, to whom I appealed, do not appear to silence this foolish causa sine qua non (indispensable cause or factor). But with others in the streets cry out. Since the students are talking one to another: without me the justification cannot happen since it is necessary that he must be who is justified. Similarly , if Peter does not exist, he cannot be justified and thus it clear that in some sort of way man is the cause of his justification. And these eloquent men not even having seen one book of Augustine draw on the words of Augustine: “He created you without you” etc. Therein one can truly see the work of Satan. Then when have we at any time heard that these people were occupied in speaking about this Article on justification and in earlier years they were, to be sure, like-minded and purely taught? Now, however, through the words of Philippus and without good cause (sine rebus) they have become orators but without cause and with words have become theologians and as if more learned than others. On account of this they think that with necessity they can speak of causa sine qua non and in a fitting way as no one before and praise the same in the greatest way. It is astonishing that he (Melanchthon) should want to fight on the side of such people as master teachers and youthful talents rather than be taught, learn and believe! It appears therefore, what concerns my situation there is nothing that remains but that I plead with for the sake of Christ that you now report to me what is the position on this situation and this I plead with you now in the name of the collegiate of theologians of whom you are the Decan and with whom I have so often dealt with this matter and prayed that a righteous and fitting end to it be provided. Concerning this matter I did not complain as a private person from the time when D.Cruciger permitted this as an open question but I have dealt with you as with the college of all theologians who at the time in Wittenberg were like-minded confessors and teachers of the article on justification and that was not in a corner or as table companions or with those who agreed (arrisores) but before God and all men. Further (this I say confidently) if you think it is not necessary that you write then I will go farther on the beginning way and that, what I previously did before all who were concerned in private I will hereafter do in every way and by every means act so that pure and certain truth of the faith endures. And it would not frighten me if you all were to say that I am being too narrow about this your discord to comprehend or to know so that I can get hold of it then you are saying of me with complete truth and comprehend what I myself hold in my heart; but I that at time an ass spoke to only one man who was sent to speak evil to the harm of the people of God and there was no one else who had made objection. Yes, God has pressed upon me this single lecture in theology and rules this my situation and according to that it goes slowly forward. However, I will not rest until all the pushers of this matter unto the last ones who have had their day according to the measure of my faith that I have through the spirit of Christ (I can do nothing else) and spoken against and will not desist until Christ is publicly glorified as previously through the preaching of faith so that that causa sine qua non is taken out of the article on justification, from the article of justification, I say; otherwise they may always say and poetize persuading whatever they can; they deny Christ or at least make salvation, which is through Christ, doubtful, that is, destroy it (nullam facit). And so finally many hearts will be revealed and come to the light of day whether the Wittenbergers are of one mind apart from intrigues of philosophy, rhetoric and sophistry, being true to this that faith alone justifies and what you in Augsburg seemed to maintain without this causa sine qua non and apart the other distinction and it will become obvious whether yet to this day you are true to that Confession; likewise whether the Loci (of Melanchthon) will be refuted (what Erasmus seems to have written) and which was published this year several times by Herr Philippus. This and all else which I would gladly pass over would be made known through this causa sine qua non. This (causa sine qua non) is an evil cancerand words of empty chatter and many questions diverted by which all who are too secure in their faith come to fall from the edification of God which comes through faith. Finally, in addition, I say this to D.Creuciger: It may be all too much or nothing I will take my position before all and in the face of D.Creuciger raise a new complaint and to be sure one very brief since it can in way be permitted that that cancer be further instilled in the healthy flesh of Christ. Be it well with you, honorable father and consider my unnecessary chatter (vel lanam caprinam) for the good which I before and other clear theologians based on my faith or if the truth is otherwise shown make it known without delay so that the judgment may certainly result in victory.
From Niemeck on the 6th of December, Conrad Cordatus, Magister (Mgr) and Licentiat of Theology.

2010-02-15T09:58:00.000-06:00

#2316-To Christian III of Denmark

Grace and peace in Christ,our LOrd and Savior, also my poor Pater Noster,great-mighty one,most illustrious, highborn Prince, most gracious Lord King. I have EKM (your royal majesty?) received glady your writing, and am well pleased that EKM has rooted out the bishops( so that they may not cease God’s Word to persecute and the worldly rule confuse); I also want, as much as I can, for the best help signify and be responsible, and humbly pray, that EKM would properly the spiritual goods, which are appropiate to the crown, separate so that the church is nevertheless well and properly may be cared for.
Thus, if they are turned about and torn apart wherewith will one care for the preachers?Thus, I admonish you (perhaps unecessarily) EKW would without that know well how and christianly to proceed but without that Example from me our people not notified might be moved by such since there are many who would gladly tear everything apart.; and should God not such pious Land-princes which He intends with all earnestness and faithfulness to uphold , many pastors would be laid waste. If now Satan would deceive several also in the lands EKM may God help EKM to consider the need of the church for the divine Word for all both now and the future that they may learn to be saved and avoid eternal death; everything rests upon God’s Word. Christ, our dear Lord be with EKM here and everlastingly,Amen. Saturday after St. Andrew’s Day (2 Dec.) 1536. EKM’s willing one Martinus Luther,D.

Christian III of Denmark

2010-02-13T17:19:00.004-06:00

2010-02-12T13:01:00.000-06:00

#2314-Luther, Jonas. and Melanchthon to the Council in Nuernberg

to the honorable, prominent (fuernehmen?), and wise, Lords, Mayor and Council of the city of Nuernberg, our favored Lords and Friends.

Grace and peace from God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Honorable,wise, favored Lords!Your Honorable Wisdom’s writing along with the sermon Osiander and the accompanying questions about you wish our opinion we have received and are well inclined to give EEW (Your honorable wisdom) a return answer with this messenger.We are also,however, at this time burdened with a matter from our most gracious Lord, the Elector of Saxony so that the answers to EEW due to haste may not be completed in the way that time requires and to speak the way that is required and give the necessary time.Although we also support Private-Absolution with all earnestness and consider it very beneficial and have always taught that of the many things to preserve and that should not be done away with or forsaken in the church we yet conclude that the forgiveness of sins is not received only in Private-Absolution but that also the heart receives the right faith and comfort in the common sermon. That the sermon and absolution have power thereto God assures He will work with His Word whether it is spoken in general or otherwise; also has commanded to believe the Gospel whether in common or otherwise held forth. On this article rests the whole and basis of this strife and have therefore briefly repeated the article thereby to underline what are opinion is of the main part of this matter. How far however Herr Osiander strays from this and why he rebukes the customary absolution requires a somewhat longer discussion and we want to do the same as we have opportunity undertake favorably and send EEW our thoughts with our own messenger. God preserve EEW graciously and grant your church peace and unity in Christ. Dated at Witteberg on the Tuesday after Catherine (28 Nov.) in ’36 year
Martinus Luther,D.
Justus Jonas D.,P.W.
Caspar Cruciger,D.
Philippus Melanchthon

#2309-2312

2010-01-09T10:21:00.000-06:00

309-To Else Agricola in Eisleben (summarized in the St. Louis Edition)
Luther expresses his joy that she again wants to return to Wittenberg and hopes she
Will bring her husband along.

#2310-The Nuernberg Council to the Decan (Luther) and theological faculty in Witt-
enberg. (Summarized in the St. Louis Edition)
Andreas Osiander has renewed his opposition to private-absolution and the Nuernberg
Council has requested the opinion of Melanchton as he traveled through there. And which
He had also given a written opinion on October 22,1536. Yet because of the importance
Of the case he also wanted have advice from others. For this reason the Council requests
That the faculty inquire of him wherein Herr Andreas Osiander has a problem with and to
Give verification from the Holy Scripture of it and give his intention.

32312-To the Council in Saalfeld.
To the honorable, insightful Lords, Mayor and Council in Saalfeld, my favored Lords
And especially good friends.
Grace and peace in Christ. Honorable,perceptive, dear Lords and friends! I hope that
In that I have not answered your previous writing you will understand in a good way.
Apart from the fact I am now old and dull in writing (as I myself must do all the writing)
I thought it not necessary to answer because EF had so well received my appeal and
Completed it regarding Gerard as I had thought and gladly again did my wish. About
Pfreundrs Philip has also written and received one year (stipend) and I thought it good
That he should have another year on the stipend and for the other fellow who in Gerards
Stead was named previously should receive it from the City-council or the general treasury given assistance from a tax as I thought well for you to do since Pfreunder was praised as very talented fellow for juridical studies however EF thought it should be left to whatever you wanted to do as I also yet do too, for me as a theologian ( as I also previously indicated) it is not proper to apply the theological stipends for the jurists.Herein EF will know well how to proceed in a Christian and good way; thereto be commended to God.,Amen. Midweek after Martin (15 Nov.)1536.Martinus Luther,D.

#2308-ML to the seniors of the Maehrist Brothers

2009-12-03T10:24:00.002-06:00

To the, in Christ, seniors of the church in Maehre, his highly-honored brothers, dear in Christ.

Grace and peace in the LOrd! We have,highly-honorable brothers, perused your writing
and listened to the messenger you sent. We agree with everything except for a single chapter in which you teach that never should one be absolved by a servant of the church who postpones confession until the very last breath of his life. Since this position is opposed to ours we thought it well to remind you in this matter that either you improve or at least elucidate better so that we after your good intention have seen could write an appropriate preface. A difference regarding celibacy although I am not completely opposed so that if you have such persons who support their manner of living and want to remain unmarried and also are able to do so that this rule Canon) does not stricture those who cannot endure a marriage-less life. That you will abundantly learn from the brothers you have sent to me. What concerns us is only this that we wish for an upright unity be brought forth, as do you no less than we pray to God that through His grace this will happily proceed. Your gift to me was very acceptable although it was very much not necessary that in your poverty you should be so generous to me. What remains: God be the protector of your souls and also your bodies, and give you richly His grace on that Day,Amen. Given on the Sunday after the Feast of the Saints (5 Nov.) Anno 1536.

N>B. ML was given 12 Bohemian knives by the Maehrist Brothers.

2009-12-03T07:42:00.001-06:00

Chimaera

2009-11-21T20:20:00.000-06:00

Myth Man's Award-winning Homework Help
THE CHIMAERA

THE CHIMAERA

She was of divine race, not of men, in the fore part a lion, in the hinder a serpent, and in the middle a goat, breathing forth in terrible manner the force of blazing fire. And Bellerophon slew her, trusting the signs of the gods.
Homer, Iliad 6.181

The Chimaera who breathed raging fire, a creature fearful, great, swift footed and strong, who had three heads, one of grim-eyed lion, another of a goat, and another of a serpent. In her forepart she was a lion; in her hinderpart a dragon; and in her middle part, a goat, breathing forth a fearful blast of blazing fire. Her did Pegasus and noble Bellerophon slay.
Hesiod, Theogony 319

The Chimaera was a fire-breathing she-goat with the head of a lion, the body of a goat and a serpent's tail. This unlikely beast was the product of a union between the equally hideous monsters Typhon and Echidne.

Echidne bore a particularly dreadful brood to Typhon: along with the Chimaera, the two of them produced Cerberus, the three-headed hound of Hades; Orthrus, the two-headed hound of Geryon; the Sphinx, who had a woman's head, lion's body, serpent's tail, and eagle's wings; and the Hydra, a multi-headed water serpent. The Chimaera and her siblings comprised some of the most feared monsters in Greek mythology.

(It should be noted that in some versions of the Sphinx story, it is suggested that its parents were the Chimaera and Orthrus.)

This dreaded monster took up residence in a place called Lycia and caused great havoc, killing and terrorizing all the neighboring area. In due time, the hero called Bellerophon, riding the winged horse Pegasus, challenged this beast.

Chimaera-Lion,goat,snake

2009-11-21T11:54:00.004-06:00

2009-11-19T20:26:00.001-06:00

#2307-Conrad Cordatus to Luther
(Another letter to Doctor Mart. Luth.on account of the words of which D.Joh. Bug. Preached on 8 (sic) November.

Grace of God through Christ! Although already for fourteen days I was motivated to write to you because of a certain man who then (and perhaps now) maintained: regarding the causa sine qua non one may dispute yet I believe that I might fear what he says: Don’t go too far! (NE quid nimis!) Yet, in this week, he appears to be hostile to sine qua non has openily from the pulpit said that there are certain people in this school (the U of Wittenberg) who think there is a schism although there is no division over the substance but only on the words, I think it necessary I write this to you so that you, honorable father,that you in no way consent to these people be lenient in this case of faith while we should in every matter be merciful to the neighbor but regarding the faith be righteous and unyielding. Further, while I speak in opposition to Cruciger and others who appear to favor sine qua non yet I confidently oppose these preachers re: whether a dispute in words does not divide the whole body? Thus I will ask them which of those expressions (termini) which are only words (termini) without being indicative of substance?
Then he wants to speak of the Chimaere ( Myth monster) and of the Stag-buck and similar monstrosities related in words as also void of causa sine qua non which also the godless Sophists from their empty heads at first declared likewise the expression and the substance (as their golden calf) imagined in their heads and no grammarians had questions about and never spoke about. I never once had questioned or regarded as true that a schism in such words was not a harmful division. And was not the schism between the Nominalists and Realists a great and harmful split? Then also they declare: One may disagree!
Is it not proper to fight against the schism regarding words? However, how fine it is that against the grammatical expression ( yes, the substance of the expression itself) they want to defend by grammar itself. Thus the conclusion (connexionem) of their syllogism we will answer from the Word of God and confidently oppose them with the help of Christ and His Spirit and with words brought together without art. What would that substance sine qua non answer when we with this word of Christ oppose it (John 14:26) : “The Spirit will remind you of all that I have taught you.?” Or has Christ anywhere spoken of the matter of sine qua non? However, that I should cease burdening you with my writing I say: that that and similar expressions be damned and remain damned in the theology of Christ, Amen.

And whoever maintains that there is no schism in substance established he might see to what he is doing or also believe those manufactured (fabris) new words.

Be it well with you and be strong in the Lord in the power of His strength, and that you in no way permit anyone to move you and you, worthy Doctor, know the consequences if you only in the case of the Sacramentarians had diverted. So also (you know) what a fortuante proceeding the matter had (as several wanted) when the Concord only be sent to them written. Again, be it well with you and your entire house; be strong through the Spirit of Christ and He also the peace with me which was only a short time previously be brought about again by His grace. From Niemeck on the third day of the month of November.Conr.Cordatus

#2306

2009-11-11T08:03:00.000-06:00

#2306-To Duke Heinrich of Saxony
Grace and peace in Christ. Illustrious, high-born Prince, gracious Lord! .E.F.G. will
Graciously regard it as well-intentioned that I must write so plainly. Often now I have pleaded for Mathes Kartenmaler, and according to much zeal have inquired about everything
And now finally E.F.G.’s writing to my E.G.the Elector which ECFG sent to me I have read and discovered , as much as possible by me, that the poor man has been done an injustice; it’s was a bad thing, whoever did it may God forgive; I do not want to have it on my conscience. EFG would also not want it to remain on his conscience.There seven children with father and mother expelled (the eighth has died) and are regarded as unworthy and without virtue by everyone in addition to being beggars without anything being proved or even had a hearing and he also is not a man who could have done such a thing as I previously wrote.

That EFG finally in letters to my gracious Lord has been urged that he should yield from his vow and acceptance: EFG should graciously consider that one has faithfully and in secret pointed out ( were it with evil intentions, they are the worst of scoundrels) how the hangman from Dresden ordered that he should be after him. Yes, gracious lord, it would be better to deal with him with a cane or stick! There are three witnesses through whom (I don’t know) such complaint have brought to EFG as I am here forwarding so that EFG may know that Mathes has been done an injustice. Thus it is my humble petition: because EFG has heard the holy Gospel by God’s grace would to the honor of the same holy Word of God such outrage against EFG diminish and still give the man a hearing whether it be within or outside the jurisdiction of EFG. Such outcry against EFG is not laudable and it will not help that he has stepped out of EFG’s domain because it is METUS IN CONSTANTEM VIRUM CADENS (?).That is my final plea in this matter. Though it may not succeed it is yet necessary for my conscience to give him a public written witness that he is innocent in this matter and to help save his honor so that he might remain which I in service to EFG would rather pass over.

I cannot permit such horror or misery ( where there is not a hearing or proof) to go on without pushing and laying it upon the conscience of EFG. I plead for a gracious answer.Herwith be commended to God,Amen. On the Thursday after all Saints Day (2 Nov) 1536. EFG’s willing Martinus Luther.

Nota Bene: I was thinking that I saw “METUS..." in a the work of a Roman (Latin) poet but can’t find it. Surprised that ML does not quote it but maybe it’s a proverb about everyone fearing death..(?) Any ideas?

#2305-Melanchthon to Luther,Jonas,Bugenhagen and Cruciger

2009-11-02T04:25:00.004-06:00

To the highly-renown men: Lord Doctor Luther,D.Justus Jonas and the head Pastor of the church in Wittenberg and D.Cruciger, his highly honorable teachers.

Heil! Highly-renown and dear men of my heart! I hear that Cordatus has here put forth a great dream-play(?) over several of my words in which, it is said, that I falsely have put forth on the teaching of works. I am moved by this report to respond as soon as possible although I am plagued with other difficult concerns at this time. I have never learned nor have I ever taught anything other than what you commonly teach especially concerning this controversy. But from the start I saw that many, especially
from elsewhere, this sentence: We are justified only through faith, that along with this opinion: WE are through this have a new essence (novitate) or by the infusion of gifts made righteous (that is to say, not only through faith) so it was necessary for me in the Apology that the reckoning only out of grace to put forth and to say several things explicitly.Thereupon, as you know, several questions arose: If only we are accepted by mercy whereto is the new obedience demanded? The Scriptures have it. I never once questioned your judgment not even once to Amsdorf. And I have never at any time had something different in my eye than to declare very specifically what you teach because I know that many have inept opinions about such great things.And that the youth have a very definite way is necessary in addition to many dialectic words.
Also I have never concealed that I want, as much as I can, say that good works are
praiseworthy but I have never adorned them with false praise. I clearly say that they are neither a reward nor meritorious toward everlasting life. And I am not so untaught that I do know what signifies a necessary cause (causa sine qua non). I pray therefore for the sake of Christ that what I have taught with great effort and not on purpose to propose any deviation.
Never have I wanted to deviate from your opinion but when there is suspicion or condemnation by certain men burdening me and I fear estrangement from good will I wish I might go somewhere else in the world. I know several have taught terribly about me whom I would be happy to forgive. And this I want to complain to you about rather than to others. I would not be the originator of any sort of division among us. And I love each and honor them in my heart. And I want the common matter very much. And if my labors and my not insignificant care in each matter of responsibilty are not verified it is in vain that I speak of this matter. However , I hope that my good intentions will eventually be known. And I have never avoided admonition and well intended persuasion. There are manifold gifts. I am claiming nothing and have brought forth nothing new. I have put together for you as much as I am able and put it as clearly as I can.

I hear that yet another complaint has been raised on account of the position of the Pedagogue. Herr Caspar knows how very much and inistently I have pleaded that the choice should be postponed. That they did not want this and ordered me to in accordance with my responsibility to put forth fitting elders I have named four: Freder,Wendelin, Holstein and Marcellus however I said that these two, namely Holstein and Marcellus,are to be preferred above the rest. I have also said that Holstein should in the forefront because he is a Saxon and must receive consideration by this nation.Thereupon it goes to a vote. I have not voiced anything more. Also in my letters conscerning Holstein stating that he is a Saxon it was because it was their displeasure and all wanted to disregard this. Therfore I am in this matter without any fault. I also know, having heard it from Marcellus, that you would like to depart from this narrow position to another. He has never once desired it and leaves the decision entirely up to you. These necessary matters I have intended to describe so that my silence would not arouse, I know not of what sort, a suspicion. And i espically wish to be pure before you. Be it right well and happy with you. On the day of All Saints (1 Nov.)
I am not delighted with this writing and don't want it copied so pardon that. Philppus.

Philippus Melanchthon

2009-11-02T04:18:00.002-06:00

2009-11-01T18:26:00.001-06:00

#2239-To Caspar Huberinus in Augsburg
To the worthy lord in Christ,Caspar Huber, the faithful servant of the Word in the church
In Augsburg, my beloved brother in the Lord.

Grace and peace in Christ! I write and am loaded with many activities,my beloved Caspar in the Lord; in addition I am very old and almost dead away and am scarcely
useful for a a half-day. On that account there are several who desire my thoughts and
opinion and you might share with them. I see very well that the Concord is hardly established; yet as they are dealing faithfully there is yet the good hope that God who has begun His work that it will be yet completed. He knows the ordained course of His Church namely that the wagon and also the horses must go through mud and great waters and yet the wagon attains victory as the Prophet Habbakkuk tells. For this reason let is hope and pray that God the Lord will stamp the head of the snake under our feet,Amen. Further, it is my opinion that the Cathedral lords will be spared neither they or their horrors nor that the authorities will not prevail with their action or authority so that yet the preachers will not be silenced but with joyful spirit and powerful sermons will rebuke their services and
essence and the hearts of the faithful made zealous and horrified. God’s Word should not be bound, but should rebuke the world because of sin. One should be concerned in what way the Cathedral-administration might be restrained so that in the mean time one might perhaps find counsel. One need not worry that the Princes will permit the Emperor to take over all these spiritual goods. They will also be in the pursuit, and not unjustly, should it come to that. In addition the cities will have some consolation in that. Thus, one should eagerly endeaveor at the same time that hearts of the pious and also the evil be turned from this horror. Briefly, these are my thoughts. If you think it well, share these thourghts with the Strassburger preachers. Since I cannot write to all of them or especially to serveral of them. Greet for me the pious Magister Forster with all of his and all of yours . With that be commended to the Lord. Dated at Wittenberg on the 23 October 1536. M.Luther.

#2295-To the Council at Saalfeld

2009-08-14T01:49:00.002-05:00

Honorable, perceptive,Mayor and Council in Saalfeld,my favored and good Lords and Friends.
Grace and peace in Christ. Honorable,perceptive,favored Lords and Friends!In the absence of M.Philip I had to open and read your writing and do not want to keep from you that recently the friend of Pfruener, treasurer in Torgau made a written request that I decline the stipend to him for yet another year depending on whether he would remain in the theology studies and that I should bring him before me and inquire about that and it has been done. He has now answered me that he want to stay with the jurist studies;thus my my request to you,as I have told his friend, the treasurer,remains. I do not want and it is not up to me that I, as a theologian, should help by turning over the thological stipend to be used for jurisprudence; I do not say that it cannot be done without my request. Thus I have made Pfruener aware. But because,nevertheless (as I hear) he has talents in jurisprudence and M.Philipp has counseled him about the same you could as Council extend as much as it costs for another year not only because he is a son of your city but because the times are so bad that there is need for talented people. For this reason I also want to appeal to you in a friendly way.

However, because I note from your writing that upon the request of M.Philipp you are extending the stipend for a third year instead of to the other youth Gerard that I cannot approve; since the same Gerard is very pious,and able and gradually accomplishing the studies and requires yet another year of help at least; so I am requesting that has you have promised M.Philipp the stipend for yet a third year and Gerard a stipend for another year for Gerard and equal to that Pfruener who is becoming a jurist. Many good people have appealed to me for Gerard and I cannot refuse them. I hope that you will know well how to proceed. Herewith, be commended to
God,Amen. On the day of Dionysius (9 Oct.) 1536.

# 2291-To Georg,Prince of Anhalt-In the matter of Schoenitz

2009-08-10T03:46:00.003-05:00

To the illustrious and high-born Prince and Lord,Lord Georg, Prince in Anhalt and Thumprobst in Magdeburg,Graf in Ascanien.
G. (grace) and peace in Christ. Ach, my gracious,dear Lord, how sad I am that EFG is so deeply stuck in the Bishop's matter. I know well how faithfully and heartily EFG takes the matter and still the holy man and silly man have much different thoughts. My plea to EFG and advice is still that the matter should be put around the neck of the Stift (charitable institution) otherwise nothing will come about; I also hope that God will soon visit his haughty spite,pride,rididcule and mockery; he will yet Christ set and a mayor and city secretary in Halle as before, where Christ remains Lord. However, I am glad to hear that his matter is contrived in so rotten and wrong way in this talk although those working with it do know how to simply understand it. But what is that and he should learn that that I am not simplistic, but am albertish,bishopish, cardinalish,and romish! But onward, it should go on the right course and I plead that it will not be tolerated; gross is gross and too much rips the the sack. Ach, EFG will out the matter and not give cover to the hellish mayor.Herewith, be to God commended,Amen. EFG is for me a dear prince and lord from whom I receive all good but never from the mayor of Halle. 1536 on the day of St. Michael (29 Sept.) EFG's willing Martinus Luther,D.
I am also sending EFG the Testament of the XII Partriarchs again with the copy etc.which you let me see. It is a judicial thing but from a pious man and in judging one learns good morals; but Christ should also be therein etc.
What Nicl.Hausmann will be conveying to EFG will be on behalf of the Bohemians I am earnestly praying for; EFG will well feel what to do since I do not want to burden EFG in any way.
N.B. "albertish" is probably foolish or silly. As I remember the matter of Schoenitz involves the siezing of his property by the Archbishop of Mainz and devoting it to the church.

2009-08-01T09:58:00.000-05:00

#2290-ML to Zwickau Council-an ironic rebuke

2009-07-30T09:51:00.002-05:00

Grace and peace. Honorable and perceptive, dear lords and good friend! I have been happy to read that you in Zwickau have become pious; I also want to write the pastor,when I can, that he also should rightly be so. That I should so easily believe one party or yet do so may it be, as God wills, that you do not take it amiss bluntly. I have been quite burned by the star of Zwickau and know quite well its brilliance and influence. Therefore the suspicion be easily aroused from the great brilliance of previous events; nevertheless I praise the preachers,people and congregations and also the greater portion of the Council and consider the whole heaven over Zwickau filled with favorable star not to mention that the great planets over Zwickau are wonderful,making a unique constellation, and confuse heaven with other stars by which Example also they want to tear down other cities. This is in my heart that the regiments, church and state, should not be mixed or one devour the other and both be done in as under the Papacy, as St. Paul says (2 Cor.12:20.): "You bite and eat one another see to it that you do not devour each other." I think, if God wills, it good if you well take my writing as well intended. Herewith, be commended to God,Amen. Midweek after Mauritius (27 Sept.)1536. M.Lutherus
NOTA BENE: Not sure about the stars and planets and whether ML is referring to some phenomena or making fun of their boasting as if ordained by heaven. What do you think? I could have missed something.

#2289-To Spalatin in Altenburg

2009-07-25T08:00:00.002-05:00

To the highly-renown man, Herr Magister Georg Spalatin,Pastor and Bishop of the church in Altenburg,in the LOrd,my very dear (friend).
Grace and peace in Christ! I plead with you, my dearest Spalatin, you would immediately with M.Brisger, who is returning, as soon as he is there, that you with him faithfully help the poor Elsa of Reinsberg to be received or at any rate, sustained by you and also that you do not permit her to be harrassed or troubled by bitter words. Who knows in what person the poor and begging Christ may be honored? I see everywhere things which I lament so that I fear, in short time, the Word of grace will be taken away from us because of unbelieving unthankfulness and the despising of it. Almost all of the congregations think thus: we free ourselves from the poor and send them to Wittenberg; we experience this daily. "No one wants to do more good and help the poor", meanwhile we seek what is ours and with a frenzy. "Well",that is the fate of the world. Be it well with you and pray for me. On the Sunday after Matthew (24 Sept.)1536. Your Martin Luther,D

Tulpenkanzel-Hausmann dies here 11/6/1537

2009-07-25T07:06:00.001-05:00

#2288-To Nicolaus Hausmann in Dessau

2009-07-23T20:32:00.003-05:00

To the highly-gifted man, Herr Nicolaus Hausmann, servant of Christ in the church at Dessau, his very dear brother in the LOrd.

Grace and peace! I seldom write to you,good Nicolaus, since there is nothing at hand and our news you very well know and your Court learns of it before ours does. Both Markgrafs (likely Joachim and Johann sons of the Elector of Brandenburg) are straying from the Gospel; if you did not already know you should know now and I do not know what evil among us is glimmering here. I am sharing herewith my new decision about you. I am thinking that you should be called away from there and become a colleague in my house so that you can finally enjoy peace and rest. I already have the assurance from your brother that he will support you here by me. I cannot see that this position there is for you.
D.Hieronymous Weller is happy; he has gone away from me to a nearby house which I am glad to see.
The matter of the Emperor is not of such great happiness as it is rumored. One hears that about five hundred men have gone because of hunger among whom several prominent leaders in the war as the Markgraf Friedrich, the Probst in Wurzburg,Caspar von Fronsberg and I do not know which others.
It appears me that the Council has passed over more than they have urged although it is said that Duke Georg has written a ponderous book against the Bishops which he is thinking to bring as an ordinance according the Canon and that is like comparing God with the devil.
From England our Alesius writes that the new queen Johanna (Seymour) crowned on St. Michael's Day feast is an enemy of the Gospel, as he says, the position of the kingdom has now changed so that Antoninus is hiding and must be silent and is not without being in danger. Yet neverthelesss the King persists in trying to demonstrate his return to the Pope and that it is concluded throughout the entire kingdom that no one should journey to the Council except those whom the King has previously consented to go to the Council which will never happen. The lords are divided over this so that the Council will become a fable or at least a definite time will not be set for it. However, when the time has passed who can determine a different time? "The whole world is full of boobishness." Be it well with you in the LOrd and pray for me, dear brother,since I very much need the same. Greet your very good Prince respectfully for me. Mid-week after Lambertus (20 Sept.)Anno 1535.

Nicolaus von Amsdorf

2009-07-19T21:14:00.003-05:00

#2287-Nicolaus von Amsdorf to Luther

2009-07-19T20:45:00.002-05:00

Look, my honorable Father in Christ, the judgment of D. Tridensis and the writing which Aepinus sent to me and that which he himself writes which are immediately read by the the Wittenbergers. While Philipp is absent I am sending them to you. Here it is said that contradictory things are being taught in Wittenberg. They stress heavily in the school that works are necessary for everlasting salvation but that you,however, in the very same week, on Sunday in the church, according to your blessed spirit, taught about the new birth: a child in the mother's womb does or works nothing but is only passive and is given form etc. This disturbs our people very much and also disturbs me. Our opponents in this city take heart against us and cause me toil and work in that they persuade people to return to their godless doctrine and to forsake the Gospel. Here I plead for your advice and plead again and again for the same. Here there is the rumor that the Pope has become a Lutheran because he preached twice in a week and likewise also several Cardinals. However, these are nothing things. "The devil is too strong there and together with his will not allow anything like that." The Bishop of Cologne has shaved his head and with a beard, dressed as a hunter, comes suddenly as a horseman in order to visit the Markgraf in Berlin. What that is about I do not know. Be it well with you. 14 Sept. Anno 1536. Your Amsdorf.

#2285-To Justus Jonas

2009-03-13T14:18:00.002-05:00

Grace and peace in Christ! My dear Jonas, it is essential that you become involved in the case of Antoninus Schoenitz since the Bishop of Halle has given his consent that you (having nameed you) be one of the mediators with Prince Georg of Anhalt etc/
About this I very much appeal being assured of your friendship and love. Therefore I am sending you in the hope that we will not be deceived as this raging Bishop persists so that you will be stubborn and ready to represent my party vigorously. The rest I will give you orally. <. Philip is visiting his Joachim (Camerarius). About the victory of the Emperor you will hear here if you haven't already heard it there. Be it well with you and your colleagues in Christ. On the Tuesday after Aegidius (5 Sept.) 1536. Your Martin Luther.

#2284-Captio to Luther (a summary)

2009-03-13T13:59:00.001-05:00

Capito fears that his earlier letters to Luther upon leaving Wittenberg were lost so he relates again what has happened regarding the Concord matter. Of the opposiiton of the Abt of Volsius and the vain attempt to alter his opinion which brings into play the intrigue of Schwenkfeld and colleagues. The reason for the delay in signing has only the Schwabishe cities with exception of Ulm agreeing. He forwards a letter from Basel regarding a convention which will be held before Michaelis. After Augsburg the Papists are boasting that the jurisdiction has been handed over to them and the Magistrates have temporarily suspended the Mass and one of the Magistrates has requested that Capito appeal to Luther not to become involved with the jurisdiction-question.

Today's Quiz

2009-02-18T16:02:00.001-06:00

What happened on this date, 463 years ago, in Eisleben?

#2283-To the Council at Leisnig

2009-01-14T09:26:00.002-06:00

To the honorable and wise Lords,Mayor and Council in Leisnig,my good friends.

Grace and peace in Christ. Honorable,wise,dear Lords and good friends! I appeal in an entirely friendly way, that you would regarding Mr. Antonio (Lauterbach),your preacher,think well of him and help him so that he and his may come away from Leisnig, as he desires, which is also necessary and beneficial. I see that it cannot be any different according to his need and benefit. It must follow, the dear God granting, that you another may secure who is able to get along as the parish-head. Permit it that another be sought;and I have earnestly admonished and requested that he should yield and desist, and he has consented to that; and we here will know well how to use him since you cannot find such stones on every street. And since he cannot be your parish-head he may yet find a place that is right for him. Consider that the offense caused by both sides should not be tolerated so give your help so that both will be together in this. Herewith be to God commended,Amen. Ultima (last day) of August 1536.Martinus Luther,D.
NOTE: Wonder if the LCMS Lauterbachs know about this one?

#2281a-To Georg,Prince of Anhalt

2008-11-12T10:01:00.002-06:00

(2281 is summarized as letter from Georg to Luther stating the delay in settiling the matter between the Cardinal of Mainz and Antoninus Schoenitz is not the fault of the Cardinal nor of Georg himself who has been sick and busy but that of Schoenitz. Luther is asked to intervene with Schoenitz so he doesn't introduce something new and Prince Georg will do his best to bring the matter to a settlement. #2281a following is ML's reply to #2281.)

To the highly rewnown and illustrious,sincere Prince and Lord,Herr Georg,Prince of Anhalt,Graf of Ascanien,Lord in Bernburg,Probst of the Church in Magdeburg,his very gracious Lord.

Grace and peace in Christ! I have never in the very least doubted the faithfulness of
EFG, illustrious Prince so it is not necessary that EFG be concerned to excuse himself but I must always be suspicious of that very bad man because of many things which I have not learned from Schoenitz but from Rome and out of the Roman world. And I fear only for our Deutschland that you Princes may be too late in beginning to sigh and sorrow over your security; since it is the secret of evil that we do not become wise before the damage is done. If it is possible I plead that EFG would not trust this monstrosity. "If it however does not happen, it will go as it goes." We have here no abiding city (civitatem) but I only wish that out of this Egypt and Babylon(in which we are imprisoned) may have peace and well-being. "However, EFG will graciously regard me as well-intentione"; I cannot believe, or even grant the conjecture, that this man in any way is dealing in earnest or speaks. That I wish very much that EFG would be free of this horror "that God knows. May EFG see" how God will grant it. Concerning this petition all of us stand together also at this time happy with EFG but with fear, yet in serving "May God make it better than we think,Amen." Since the devil always makes it worse than we think. Herewith,Amen. The Monday after Bartholomew (28 August)1536.EFG's willing Martinus Luther,D.
NOTE: Um der Bitten willen aller der Unsern stelle ich mich daher auch EFG gern,aber mit Furcht,zu Dienst,doch "Gott mache es besser, denn wir denken,Amen. This is the second to last sentence of which you see my problematic translation above.
The Cardinal of Mainz,Albrecht, is not named but understood to be the bad guy.

#2280-To Franz Burkhard,Vice-chancellor in Saxony

2008-11-05T15:35:00.004-06:00

To the highly-renown man, Herr Franz Burkhard,the Vice-Chancellor oF Saxon,his special friend in the LOrd.
Grace and peace in Christ! My dear vice-chancellor Fran, I appeal to you that you make it known whether I could with success make an petition for the insane, old woman,"the cross-bound woman", (die Kreuzbinderin). Her daughter here cries pitifully and it is nothing new that she continues to rage as Licentiat Blank,her neighbor,can also attest. At whom we also have laughed because he quarrled with her over the fence between them and they continued to be enraged with each other until she put him to flight with a large spear. It is not praiseworthy if the Prince severly punishes this intractable (male sanam) woman (especially a widow)whom the whole city thinks senseless; she was once expelled from Halle for almost the same reason."She is a fool by my understanding whom you must point out to my most gracious lord; and when she is sufficiently punished my most gracious lord would do well to free
her; she will not become wiser or better by it." Some consideration must also be given to the young woman, her daughter who has been exceedingly harmed by the rages of her mother though she is a completely mature woman and very understanding and I myself wish for her a worthy husband.However because of this tragedy (calamitatibus), which involves her as well as her mother she is becoming increasingly strange to the one she would likely marry; it is an inner-twined chain yet mercy must loose the fetters. Let me know then whether there is a time that I may intrvene and I will do it; what troubles me is not the mother or the son-in-law but the daughter who is in need of mercy. Be it well with you in the LOrd. On the Tuesday after Agapitos (22 Aug.) 1536. Your Martin Luther,D.

Assumption of Mary-Musseo del Prado

2008-10-04T21:05:00.001-05:00

#2279-Elector Johann Friedrich to Luther

2008-10-04T20:22:00.002-05:00

To begin, our greetings. Honorable and highly-celebrated,dear devoted one! We have your writing in regard to the virgins in the cloister of Ploetzkau and along with the named virgins writing wherein they also indicate the decease of their Domina and plead that they would be provided another Domina according to the outward regimen and ordinance and one not contrary to the Word of God one should be selected,placed and received. And although we regard their request as nothing different than wanting to preserve good discipline and order in their external community we yet do think that if our choice was establised we would be making a precedent for other places and create an offense. So that in regard to the appropriate discipline of the external order in the cloister and among the nuns may be maintainted we want it to be that you advise them and indicate to them that when the majority of them choose a valiant, qualified and able person who has respect above others thus we will
make a public written command and mandate and give her the command to have the rule, order and obedience among the cloister personnel and virgins and also among the same at all times the appropriate punishment to administer remembering that such was previously the ancient way and order that such lay-people were chosen and placed.We do not want you to withhold from you our gracious opinion. Given at Torgau on the Saturday after the Assumption of Mary (19 Aug.) Anno 1536.

California Concordia College Oakland, More Photos

2008-09-28T13:24:00.007-05:00

I walked over to the old California Concordia College campus this morning, and I took some more photos. This sign points to what seems to have been the main church on the campus:

The sign has seen better days, but I'm surprised it's still standing:

The church was dedicated in 1958, and the college closed down in 1973:

It's a big church. Not sure if there is still an active Lutheran congregation there or not:

This sign sure hasn't been updated recently:

This type of housing stretches from Brann to Camden on 62nd Ave. It looks like old student housing?

This park is now known as Concordia Park:

#2278-To Justus Jonas

2008-09-25T10:08:00.004-05:00

Grace and peace in Christ! You had guests from Naumburg,dearest Jonas, but likely while you
were absent, namely Balduin von Mones, a nobleman of the nation of the Picarden, with the woman, Johanna de las Marcha, the granddaughter of his brother. who reported here how well they were hosted by Erasmus Verder and Veit Lubbert and his brother. And he requested that I might recommend him to you moved by some sort of hope that either by my letter or by the promises of the former to receive some help.They are poor and have come as exiles here, driven out for the sake of the Gospel.If that is true,as it completely appears to be, I marvel that people belonging so great a family would come here. You know the Bishop of Luttich well enough and the name of his brother ,Rupert of Aremberg (Anborch)(whom also the King of France in a recently published accusation against the Emperor named Lord de la Marcha)is well enough known by me. The woman who is unskilled in our language appears
to us be from the Scythians.Therefore you make an effort to recommend them the already named citizens. And this Carl, the Franzose (Carolus Gallus),who with that Nicolaus Claudiamus served in my house, he witnessed that he knew everthing and it was all true. You know how we here are overwhelmed with foreigners. I have, since you left, cared for several monks who came out and the one after I paid for him to a handworker one Angeld (pretio) fled away because of a "rougish stiff neck".(? Schelmereien im Nacken).

The Doctor Hieronymous has married a young woman from Freiberg, the daughter of "G.am Steige". My Kaethe thinks you know her father. You will be at the marriage or at a small meal but for me it is impossible to do what he thinks if it is not at all moderate. Your stone (gallstone) has boasted here in plain terms that its rule in your has not terminated and one must not believe your boasting that the stone by wine and the air in Thuringia has been forced out as you indicated. It said you were being hypocritical while experiencing something completely different. Be it right well with in the LOrd and greet your colleagues. On the Friday after the Ascension (of Mary) Anno 1536. Your Martin Luther.
NOTE: ML likes to joke about gall stones,you may remember.
Now like the roguish fellow had a stiff neck. What do you think?

#2277-To Justus Jonas

2008-09-21T06:31:00.002-05:00

Grace and peace in Christ!That the Bull of Herr Paulus (Pope Paul III), that is, the Cardinal, has not yet been delivered to me is likely because M.Philippus according to the wishes of Bernhard was to receive it first he (as there is many sided distrust among us or neglect) has not yet given it to me. I am accustomed also to do that with his letters. However, the German of it which was printed here I saw yesterday; I did see and did not recognize the cardinal-virtues of which Seneca and the other philosophers teach but rather the ramparts (cardines),the head-people,yes,the heads of Satan himself. "They are and rightly called 'Cardinal' in that respect. We are already condemned in this Bull; more by word of mouth. "It is" the very righteous wrath of God upon the world.

The ghost of Erich you have rightly interpreted. However, also this, that of ours in the market in Frankfurt, I believe I have written to you or you gotten it from elsewhere, namely, about the young woman who out of the beards of by-standers, or out of garments, or somewhere plucks out money in marks and devours them. Finally, from Halle, which you can inquire into, a new wonder is related how that in a Schuettzenspiel (ludo sagittario),which was put on by the Bishop, a young bridegroom in a storm was carried away from a tent leaving behind bows, arrows,shirt and even shoes.

Otherwise there is this news: the Duke of Holstein has finally captured Denmark; Copenhagen is taken and plundered and Duke Albrecht from Mecklenburg set free so that in these regions there is hope for peace since by this matter he is already made king namely the Victor, the Duke of Holstein if the Emperor does not want to make disturbance in this area by a new war which I hope won't happen.

My Lord Kaethe greets you and all of yours respectfully. And says to you that you should return as soon as possible, report, everything make better, restore again, reveal, make new and settle everything as before. Christ, be with you,Amen. Given on the 17th of August Anno 1536. Your Martin Luther,D.

NOTES: I guess ML is saying that Kaethe wants Jonas to return and do alot of different and contradictory things: make everything new and better and keep everything the same or am I missing something?
Think Jonas is with the University transferred to Halle because of the plague at Wittenber.
Question: Is a "Schuettzenspiel" a war play".

#2276-To Elector Johann Friedrich

2008-09-21T06:16:00.002-05:00

Grace and peace in Christ. Illustrious,high-born Prince, most gracious Lord!I have to send to ECFG what the Virgins in the cloister at Ploetkau have written to me since I know nothing else from there.ECFG will know what to advise from that. The merciful God help ECFG and everyone,Amen. The insufferable devil gives us much to do in church matters and would gladly again force back and drive in the Papacy or a new Papacy by the positions taken by the peasants,nobility and citizens in the matter. Herewith be commended to God. Thursday after the Assumption (17 August) 1536. ECFG's obedient Martin Luther,D.
NOTE: For the appeal of the nuns in Ploetzkau which ML sends along tothe Elector see #2274.
I have translated;"denn Ich weiss sonst nirgend mit hin" as "since I know nothing else from there."

#2275-Luther to Elector Johann Friedrich

2008-09-09T08:33:00.002-05:00

To the illustrious,high-born Prince and Lord,Herr Johann Friedrich,Duke in Saxony,Arch-marshall of H.R.(Holy Roman) Em[pire and Elector, Landgraf in Thuringia and Markgraf in Meissen,my most gracious Lord.
Grace and peace in Christ. Illustrious,high-born Prince,most gracious Lord! M.Johann Weybringer etc.,parish-head of Hildburghausen is here,recently deposed from the parish with great shame and dishonor as ECFG may understand from his report and as written to me by the Superintendent and several others that everything has been done and settled out of great envy and hate as I.myself, also accurately look at it, and they of Hildburghausen are also with great cry that they not long suffer the lack of a parish-head etc. So it is my humble appeal that ECFG will require an earnest report and witness from the whole Council and citizens what they yet hold or know of their parish-head or what one can or should order; and what is determined as right ECFG can comfortably proceed. It is true that we preachers are not somewhat pious; however, because someone is an enemy of ours,so teaches St.Paul,(perhaps,also prophesied),that not everyone's complaint should be accepted. Yes, previously he has been an honorable ,pious man as all of here know; should he now suddenly be something different? That I hope not. There is also no substantiation except only several indications of suspicion which are elaborated and which I myself could encounter. There might be something more behind it. ECFG will consider that with so few persons present for church service we should also not the same dispose of unjustly and with shame and that would be very terrible. If they do unrighteous things they should suffer more than all the others. ECFG will well know how to proceed graciously. Herewith be commended to God,Amen. Midweek after the Assumption of Mary (16 Aug.)1536. ECFG's humble Martinus Luther,D.

#2274-The Cloister at Ploetzkau to Luther

2008-08-27T10:07:00.005-05:00

To begin with,grace and peace through Christ our Redeemer and Savior. Honorable,highly-celebrated and respectable ,favored Herr and Patron.
Since our worthy Kunegundis von Bavaria,formerly our dear Domina, on the Tuesday after Quasimodogeniti (25 April) fell asleep in God the LOrd and departed from this vale of tears (Jammerthal) we were addressed by written order of the worthy and honorable Johann Talnorden,Probst, and Andres Coelen, co-commandant, of our Cloister at Ploetkau and severly admonished that all the letters of the Cloister,the privileges and righteousness to be reviewed (? inventiren); and although we previously earnestly appealed to the above named Lord Probst and co-commander as we have done heretofore in the decease of any Domina that also another Domina might be chosen of which they assured us with earnestness to provide and set forth. Thereupon we were well disposed according to their wish and according to their command to present letters and privileges and permit a review. Afterward we found that their neglecting the choosing of and that we without a superior and authority made it difficult and resulted in manifold opposition as EAW can well ascertain being highly understanding so that the youngest, not preferring the honorable way, to hearken to the eldest as in all the other places and assemblies where there is no head or position of authority.Now it is for us poor children (as without comfort in this present world)that there is the opinion, on the other hand, that we desire some papistry Domina again be chosen and exalted among us especially after the order from the worthy,celebrated lord visitors gave that the church usages,songs, and distribution of the true Body and Blood of our only Redeemer and Savior which is without any of our poor sinful works and additions which we previously have been granted through divine probidence and have been, as muuch as possible, obedient and follow at all times and we hope that the care-taker of souls will provide and be of no other persuasion. After the above mentioned lord visitors and electoral authority assented to the same we have forsaken the Papists and their orders and placed,accepted and followed according to the external regiment and honorable Christian order and the ancient privileges and customs left in tact. Therefore it is our humble and earnest plea to Your worthiness that he would make for us poor, consoleless children a sufficient appeal to our illustrious, high-born Prince and Lord, Lord Johann Friedrich etc.,etc.,our most gracious Lord, that ch.G.(electoral grace?)would choose, as has always been done,and that it be according to the worldly regimen and honorable and not contrary to the
Word of God and graciously grant in our assembly a head as above mentioned and so that we may live, as God the Almighty grants, according to God's Word in honorable discipline; that the Almighty will graciously reward without doubt.Thus we want the highly mentioned EFG and Your worthiness be prayed for with our poor prayers before the Almighty with all earnestness. Date at Ploetzkau with the seal of our Cloister on the Monday after Laurentius (14 August) Anno 1536 and requesting a gracious, written electoral response. Your worthy,obedient entire assembly of the Ploetzkau Cloister.
NOTE: These sisters,like the electoral court, write very complicated sentences so check the above out with the experts. The Benedictine Nonnenkloster is in Anhalt=Bernburg.

#2272-To Hieronymous Weller

2008-08-22T05:54:00.002-05:00

I have written to you previously (#2266)my dear Hieronymous,about your wedding that there was not place for it at Wittenberg but that you following the example of Cruciger and others bring the wedding party here for an evening meal with two or three tables.Now it is about your reputation, to be decided with your friends, whether you want have an evening meal here or the wedding. I understand something different between a meal and a wedding. If you should celebrate the wedding here you must consider what originally motivated my advice,namely, that the University is in Wittenberg, a well-known place of which I am the host and thus necessarily many must be invited who otherwise could be passed over honorably if the wedding could be at another place and there must consideration be given to the city and academy as well for the sake of your and my reputation(Ehre). I am sending therefore the Register so you can see what a great number would have to be invited (although several could be deleted) if you and your friends honor should not be diminished and at the same time your honor-worthy friends could be served with some ostentation which the present difficult circumstances do not permit. With 100 Fl. you can scarcely fund a wedding and that is something different than the doctorate meal(Doctoratus). However,it is best that you or your brother come here so that we can confer as soon as possible on this matter. By letter and messengers one cannot reach a conclusion and meanwhile the time is expiring. Therefore send therto that the matter may be certain. I do not want it to be looked upon as bringing about dishonor. Summing up, you may either come yourself or send someone in your name so that we are not unprepared. I am bothered by the thoughts about your honor and my name (reputation); otherwise if you do not come or send some one I cannot by myself undertake anything at all because I am very concerned about you as I always have been. Be it well with you in the LOrd and greet your bride and all the friends. On the Sunday after Laurentius (13 Aug.)1536.

#2271-Elector Johann Friedrich to Luther

2008-08-19T10:32:00.004-05:00

To begin with, our greetings.Honorable,dear, devoted one! We have present Tilman von Heussen, Licentiat,with specific letter which he,in writing to the high-born Princess, Frau Sybilla, born in Cleve,Duchess in Saxony, a wife dear to us, has done, telling how because of the salvific,divine Word had to yield to be put out of Julich (Gulich) making humble requestfor him to be brought here to our Princedom. Because we gladly wanted to provide for him and further him graciously as a preacher of the divine Word we have extended to him 10 Fl.our of our treasury and slso commended 10 Schock of corn from our office in Wittenberg so that he might be temporarily supported.Therefore it is our gracious wish that you would learn of his ability and find a place where he may be a suiting and fitting preacher of God's Word as we respect him and ask that you would apply all diligence to consider whether in time he might be brought to our Princedom in Saxony where people would receive him and that in time he would learn the dialect and might be supported. Thereto may you do our gracious pleasure and want your gracious opinion. Dated at Lochau, the Tuesday after Sixtus (8 August) Anno 1536.

to Johann Forster in Augsburg

2008-08-18T04:54:00.003-05:00

To the worthy and blessed man, Herr M.Joh.Forster, the faithful and clear servant of the church in Augsburg, his very dear brother in Christ.
Grace and peace in the LOrd! My little Margareta (Marussula) thanks you for your present, my dear Forster. I am surprised that you write that Musculus has so spoken that the Magistrate should be stirred up against the main (church-Stiftsherren) leaders while the opposition among us is surely concluded and accepting. However, you may determine and watch whether they want to continue or not; then we will open the entire Council with complaints. Meanwhile it is sufficient that they know that here the opposition party has concluded that they here have stood against and contradicted our opinion (although it is not true). Thereby they will finally be demonstrated to be a people who want division and a hypocritical union. For the rest it is our opinion that what was dealt with here should be kept secret but rather we have requested that it should be reported to all the churches,pastors and authorities so that the opinion of all might be heard and announce the same and only until the opinion of all has been made on the concluded Concord should it be published by the printer lest that before the victory an untimely triumph is sung and many might cry out that everything has been done without their knowledge and in a corner. Thus I await the consent of all will be written and sent to us as you and your authority has sent yours to us so that with public consent a public harmony will ensue and be openly published.

Recently a woman in Magdeburg has instigated a disturbance with Herr Nicolaus Amsdorf so that he has very little hope of establishing harmony. I believe that you know the little woman (Weiblein),namely the wife of Doctor Cubito, "the Hummelsheimin von Leipzig" (the bumblebee of Leipzig?).She has related to Amsdorf many and great things of your "Master Michel" against us and our opinion etc."It doesn't make for good blood if she will not cease". I am yet bearing everything with patience and have also not made it known to your Council until the outcry becomes greater. Be it well with you in the LOrd and pray for me. My Kaethe greets you and all of yours. The 7th of August 1536. Your Martin Luther.

NOTE: Michel is Michel Keller a Zwinglian-evidently from Augsburg.Looks like the wife of Doctor Cubito (Curio) was the widow of the Bartel of Hummelshain a little town with a castle. Maybe this is where they make the Hummel figurines?

#2269-To the Council at Augsburg

2008-08-18T04:39:00.002-05:00

To the honorable and discreet Lords, the Mayor and Councelors of the city of Augsburg, my gracious Lords and Friends.

G.u.peace in Christ. Honorable,discerning, dear Lords and Friends! I have received your writing along with that of your preachers and with joy understood that the pending Concord pleases and want to announce the same to my most gracious Lord and others and that they will also, as God wills, be pleased thereby. Your F.(you discerning ones) will stay with it and proceed until it finally comes to a conclusion and meanwhile help so that with the people in time and with reasoned instruction the truth will prevail and where there is yet error and misunderstanding in someone's heart it will be dispelled. Herewith be commended to God, Amen. Martinus Luther.

#2268-To the Preachers in Augsburg

2008-08-06T04:32:00.002-05:00

To the,in christ, highly-honorable men, the leaders and shepherds of the church in Augsburg, his sincerely loved brothers.

Grace and peace in Christ. In Christ,highly-revered men! I have received your letter with joy and thank God the LOrd that you have unanimously assented to the Concord. Christ grant that as you continue that we may increase with you in sincere love. And I hope that through you these our dealings will be made known to all pastors as much as you can so that all will be strengthened by this peace unanimously agreed to. Therefore we request that you with us will take care that the people also will know the clear opinion and finally this harmony will be complete and all considerations and doubts of conscience will cease. I will announce your agreement to all of ours and they will rejoice with us and that they will more easily that this will be a sincere accord after all offense has been removed. The LOrd direct our hearts in the love and patience of Christ, Amen. Given on the 7th of August 1536. Your Martin Luther.

#2266-to Hieronymus Weller

2008-07-27T18:36:00.003-05:00

My dear Herr Doctor! With joy I have heard and read that you finally have become a man and you have taken control of the unbridled flesh. Thus, what is a man without a she-man (Mannin)as Moses says or what is a she-man without a man mainly when you behold the first marriage? So both cannot know their generation so long as they remain alone. This manner of life has been created by God and up to now has supported it against all heresies and the devil,yes, against all the excesses, the complaints and impatience of men. May Christ now bless you and your wife and grant that you lovingly and in love always dwell with one another,Amen.

In reference to your marriage I am completely in accord with your intention since you know the unreliability of our market and all that we daily endure so that neither I nor Kaethe can hold the hope that we can honorably feed such a great group as should be done. And I do not want to bring such a disgrace upon us and you. To me it seems advisable that you celebrate the marriage in Freiburg or if that cannot happen that after you have a brilliant departure meal of several tables that you come here with a lesser contingent as did Kreuziger, Doctor Brueck and others and have a meal or breakfast of two or three tables set. I want you and your friends to consider this. As much as I can I will assist you and yours to have something tasty and be of service and you know what is ready for you."Our market is muddy and should the house be invited, the university with children and relatives and in addition which cannot be left out on my behalf that leaves neither 9 nor 12 tables." You know at your doctorate (meal) the matter was limited with wives and children absent and only the men invited there were 7 or 8 tables. What will it be if all these people,wives, children and colleagues also are to be nourished and fed? I am writing this that you might be suspicious that I want to get out of the work but so that you and your friends should think about and determine also what you should do. Be it well with you in Christ and greet your bride in my name and all of yours. Wittenberg on the 5th day of August Anno 1536.
NoTE: ML never went to Freiburg but had numerous contacts there and especially with the Weller family. Jerry stayed at the Black Cloister with the Luthers for several years.
Weller married Anna von Steige who was a ward of his brother-in-law Georg von Lisskirchen i.e. - the husband of Weller's sister who at times consulted Luther about personal doubts or conflicts.
ML in Mann and Manin is evidently playing ish(man) and ishah(woman) of the Genesis creation account.

Frankfurt a.O.

2008-07-23T21:55:00.001-05:00

#2265-To Andreas Ebert a.O.

2008-07-23T08:03:00.003-05:00

(Replying to #2264)

To the highly-honorable man, Herr Andreas Ebert, preacher in Frankfurt on the Oder, in the LOrd his very beloved brother.
Grace and peace in Christ! To many what you write is unbelievable,my dear Andreas,and before you wrote I also thought, as it was told here, that I was hearing a joke or a fable. However, if the matter stands,as you write,I hold that it is a sign,permitted by God, that Satan is a figure of certain Princes who rob and devour but accomplish nothing. This is a jokeful spirit and in his leisure ridicules our confidence so we must first of all earnestly pray for the young girl who must suffer such things for our sake. So also must this spirit in return be despised and ridiculed but not with any sort of cursing or by any earnest things attacked becasue he despises everything in devilish pride. We must prevail in prayer for the maiden and with contempt for the devil and finally, as Christ grants grace, he will cease. It would also be good if the Prince would lessen your burden which is indicated through this sign and by which this malicious spirit, as he here illustrates, confidently and powerfully rules. I request, yes, that you make this public as a worthy matter and you investigate everything certainly so there is not a deception perpetrated here and whether the money pieces or coins which the young girl seizes are those used in the markets. I have been driven about with so many false pretenses,deception,intrigue,lies,artistry etc. previously that it is necessary to proceed not believing everything that everyone except such that I know they do and say.So great is the power of the devil, the evil of the world, the impudence of men today so therfore take great caution that you are not deceived and I also deceived with you. Eperto crede Ruperto (test out the credibility of the rumor?)as the proverb says. Be it well with you in the LOrd and pray for me. Wittenberg on the August 5,1536.

NOTE: Any Latin experts on "Experto crede Ruperto"? I'm wondering in the absence of a
signature here and the address D."N" in the previous letter whether there is any suspicion that it was directed to ML and this is his reply. Not really, I guess.

Thaler Compared to US quater

2008-07-22T04:47:00.001-05:00

Joachimsthaler

2008-07-21T12:54:00.000-05:00

[edit] The Joachimsthaler
By 1518 guldiners were popping up everywhere in central Europe. In Bohemia, a part of the Holy Roman Empire then controlled by the Jagellonian monarchs, a guldiner was minted—of similar physical size but slightly less fineness—that was named the Joachimsthaler from the silver mined by the Counts of Schlick at a rich source near Joachimsthal (St. Joachim's Valley, Czech: Jáchymov) (now in the Czech Republic) where Thal (Tal) means "valley" in German. Joachim, the father of the Virgin Mary, was portrayed on the coin. Similar coins began to be minted in neighbouring valleys rich in silver deposits, each named after the particular 'thal' or valley from which the silver was extracted. There were soon so many of them that these silver coins began to be known more widely as 'thaler'. From these earliest 'thalaer' developed the new Thaler - the coin that Europe had been looking for to create a standard for commerce.

#2264-Andreas Ebert to Luther

2008-07-21T10:18:00.003-05:00

To the very blessed and faithful D.N.,his above all other highly Lords and Teachers.

Heil in Christ! I am ashamed,worthy Lord,that I should trouble you further when you are overwhelmed and buzy with an abundance of projects by burdening and appealing to you with my writing but yet responsibility toward God and the neighbor forces me whether I want to or not and very much spurs me on so much that I must come to others for strength and help. However, because I know that I do not have enough expertise on this case I am very desirous of your counsel although I am not worthy above other blessed ones. However, so that you, worthy teacher, may accurately know the case I want to briefly write about it entirely. There is by us a young girl about sixteen years of age possessed by the devil in such a manner as I have never known an example of nor read nor heard of. At a certain hour she becomes siezed by a rage of Satam in such a way that pennies, Groschen, and other German coins she scrambles for sometimes from a garment,or from the beards of those standing by, or from a table;in short, from any place she scrambles for it and if someone does not suddenly sieze her hand she sticks whatever sort of the grasped money in the mouth and clenches (zerkaut?) that brought in with her teeth and shows the same on the front part of her tongue which she is accustomed to stick out. At night she makes a great noise as she shakes a great amount (Schatz) in her hands, which she also attempts to devour so that the danger of suffocation is feared; one believes they are Joachimthaler coins. However, what she sees, everything she talks about is either money or a mouse (mus[sic]),and often she lets the treasure strike a sound as though it were great riches. A certain mass-father wanted to cure her. He was summoned here highly recommended from a little town nearby but he brought with him nothing other than consecrated herbs,waters and roots (radishes?)and if I am not mistaken,for six days swore vehemently and finally with threats; then he finally was disillusioned in his hope and went away. Meanwhile, in my responsibility, I admonished the people in every sermon that I would not let up or cease to plead with God so long as I can pray
as I conscientously have done previously.Howeever, she persists in the grasping of little coins, yes, she wishes to destroy herself with a rope,knife or water if her guards do not carefully protect her; so despairing Satan makes her with his fright.Therefore I go to you for counsel on how to deal with this rare and dangerous
matter and plead for the sake of the love of Christ to provide us with help in this case. You know the art and weapons of this opponent and you also know how he finally at last can be driven out. If you cannot because of many projects do so ,order it for someone else to do. And if there is someone who can free her by his prayers, the citizens who have love for blessedness and therefore, would have concern that the same would be brought here at their expense. If this should happen then the Almighty God, first of all, and all who hold to the Christian religion would be done a very acceptable service. Be it right well with you and think on the young girl possessed by the devil. In Frankfurt on the Oder,Andr.Ebert,Ecclesiastic in Frankfurt.

NOTE: The N.in the salutation stands for ML as the following letter shows.
"Coins in the beards"? Am I missing something. I'll try to post a picture of the great Joachimthaler.