A Treatise on Relics

Name: A Treatise on Relics
Author: Jean Calvin

By Jean Calvin

Open in WeRead

Explore more books like this:

History - Religious Religion/Spirituality

About This Book

The volume opens with a dissertation tracing the emergence of relic and image veneration to an enlargement of natural hero-worship and the church's compromise with pagan practices. It follows the historical development from early emperors' policies through fourth- and fifth-century syncretism, the iconoclastic reaction, and the medieval flourishing of pious legends and saint cults. The main treatise presents a systematic theological and evidential critique of relic veneration and image worship, cataloguing related rites retained in Western and Eastern churches and questioning reported miracles. Translator's notes and a postscript supply historical examples, commentary, and interpretive context for reformist objections to these practices.

About the Author

Jean Calvin

Jean Calvin was a prominent French theologian and reformer in the 16th century, known for his foundational role in the development of Reformed theology. His most significant work, "Institutes of the Christian Religion," systematically outlines his theological perspectives and has had a lasting impact on Protestant thought. Calvin's writings, including his letters, provide insight into the religious and political challenges of his time, reflecting his commitment to reforming the church and society. His influence extends beyond theology into areas such as education and governance, making him a key figure in the Protestant Reformation.