By John Calvin.
A Treatise on Relics.
By John Calvin.
Translated from the French Original
with an introductory dissertation
on the miraculous images, as well as other superstitions, of the Roman Catholic and Russo-Greek Churches.
By the Late Count Valerian Krasinski,
Author of “The Religious History of the Slavonic Nations,” etc.
Second Edition. Edinburgh: Johnstone, Hunter & Co. 1870
But it is necessary to consider what St Paul says, that every service of God invented by man, whatever appearance of wisdom it may have, is nothing better than vanity and foolishness, if it has no other foundation than our own devising. ——- Page 71 A Treatise on Relics by John Calvin..
About the book: A Treatise on Relics:
Introduction: Explore John Calvin’s bold stand against the veneration of relics in his groundbreaking work, “A Treatise on Relics” (French: Traitté des reliques). Written in 1543, this theological masterpiece challenges the authenticity of numerous Christian relics, offering a compelling argument for the rejection of relic worship.
Background: Delve into the historical origins of relic veneration, rooted in early Christianity’s practice of honoring martyrs. Calvin’s critique emerges against the backdrop of a growing trend in the display and worship of relics, leading to their inclusion in the Index Librorum Prohibitorum. The veneration of saints, relics, and the spread of cults are traced back to early Christian practices and Augustine of Hippo’s nuanced views.
The Rise of Relics: Explore the evolution of relic veneration from the early cults of saints to the elaborate displays of the 4th and 5th centuries. Calvin’s era witnessed an overwhelming surge in relics, with even fake relics adorned in gold and precious stones for pilgrim display. The book unveils the profound impact of relic veneration in medieval Latin Christendom, unparalleled in its influence.
Calvin’s Critique: Uncover Calvin’s meticulous examination of relics from various European cities. He exposes the proliferation of fake relics since Augustine’s time, arguing for the abandonment of relic veneration. Calvin draws a parallel with God’s hidden burial place of Moses in the Old Testament, warning against falling into idolatry through relic worship.
Contents: Calvin’s treatise provides a detailed catalog of falsified Christian relics, from saints with multiple bodies to bizarre objects of worship, such as Jesus’ robe, a towel, and even a piece of fish. Calvin raises eyebrows at the excessive veneration of Mary’s milk, warning of the absurdity in worshiping objects associated with strumpets.
Conclusion: In a stark warning to readers, Calvin cautions against the intricate web of relics, urging vigilance to avoid unintentional veneration of unworthy items. His treatise serves as a call to arms, urging believers to rethink their engagement with relics and reject practices that risk blurring the lines between sacred and profane.
Epilogue: Witness the seismic shift initiated by Calvin’s treatise, influencing the broader Reformation movement’s criticism of relic veneration. “A Treatise on Relics” stands as a timeless testament to Calvin’s commitment to biblical purity and the rejection of practices that deviate from the true essence of Christian faith.
Contents: A treatise on Relics:
Preface.
Preface to the second edition.
Introductory dissertation.
Chapter I. Origin of the worship of relics and images in the christian church.
Chapter II. Compromise of the church with paganism.
Chapter III. Position of the first christian emperors towards Paganism, and their policy in this respect.
Chapter IV. Infection of the christian church by pagan ideas and practices during the fourth and fifth centuries.
Chapter V. Reaction against the worship of images and other superstitious practices by the iconoclast emperors of the east.
Chapter VI. Origin and development of the pious legends, or lives of saints, during the Middle Ages.
Chapter VII. Analysis of the pagan rites and practices which have been retained by the Roman Catholic as well as the Græco-Russian Church.
Chapter VIII. Image-Worship and other superstitious practices of the GraecoRussian Church.
Calvin’s Treatise on Relics, with notes by the translator.
Postscript.
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