Racovian Catechism

The English Translation of the Racovian Catechism - One of the Boldest and Most Persecuted Documents in the History of the European ReformationThe Racovian Catechism (Catechesis Racoviensis), first published in Polish in 1605 and later in an expanded Latin edition in 1609, was the principal theological work of the Polish Brethren-a radical Reformation movement whose intellectual center was the town of Raków in the 16th and 17th centuries. Written by Valentin Schmalz, Johannes Völkel, and Hieronymus Moskorzowski, it was read, feared, and banned across Europe.What makes this book unique: The Catechism goes beyond Luther, Calvin, and Zwingli, drawing conclusions from the Reformation that the major reformers themselves hesitated to embrace. It rejects the doctrine of the Trinity, emphasizes the full humanity of Jesus Christ, denies original sin in its Augustinian form, and calls for a consistent return to the literal text of Scripture as the sole norm of faith. Presented in dialogical form, it systematically addresses Holy Scripture, the path of salvation, the knowledge of Christ, the commandments, and the sacraments.In doing so, it articulates a principle remarkable for its time: "Let each person be free to exercise the judgment of their own reason in matters of religion." In this, it anticipates ideas that would only gain broader recognition during the Age of Enlightenment.This edition includes: - The complete English translation of the Latin text in 74 thematic sections-from the nature of God to the person of Christ, and from baptism and the Lord's Supper to church polity- A glossary of key termsWho this book is for: For all those interested in Reformation history, philosophy of religion, or the roots of freedom of conscience. For readers willing to engage with a form of thought that asks challenging questions-not to destroy, but to clarify."Test everything; hold fast to what is good." - 1 Thessalonians 5:21Edited and translated by Marcin Poholski. English reading and study edition based on the original Latin text.

Pagina's: 419, Paperback, Independently published