Theosophick Letters or Epistles Of the Man, From God Enlightned, in Grace: Jacob Behme OF Old Seidenburg Wherein Every where are Divine blessed Exhortations to True Repentance and Amendment. As also Plaine Instructions concerning the highly worthy and Precious Knowledge Of the Divine and Naturall VVISDOME Together with a right Touchstone or Tryall of These Times for an Introduction to the Authours other writings published in English, For the good of the sincere Lovers of true Christianity. By JOHN SPARROW.
LONDON: Printed by M. S. for Giles Calvert, at the Sign of the Black Spread Eagle, at the West End of St. Pauls. 1661.
An Abstract out of Herre Abraham von Frankenbergs Letter of 7 September, 26 August, 1651. concerning the Explanation of the Copper Title of Jacob Behm's Theosophick Epistles.
1. In the Title page of the Epistles, at the Right hand above is a Dove with an Olive Branch: at the Left hand the City Alexan∣dria; or Leiden; with the Dove, which carrieth a Letter or Epistle sealed up, as Histories mention.
2. These are Two Doves in the Midst of which, is The holy Spirit in the forme of a Dove, with the Gospell of Peace.
3. Thus there are THREE Doves, signifying the Three-fold Spirit: the 1. of God, the 2. of Nature, the 3. of Art.
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The Preface of Abraham Von Franckenberg the Publisher of Jacob Behm's LXII. Letters called Theosophick Epistles.
Whereof 21. not being yet in English are here translated and published; with a Letter, concerning the Author here also Englished.
The Preface
To the Reader who loveth God and the Truth.
1. IF thou art minded fruitfully to know the true simplicity of The blessed saving Faith; and the cleere immaculate innocency of the holy Life of God in CHRIST JESU, together with the secret Mystery of the Divine and Naturall wisdome, from or out of the Light of Grace and of Nature, in a very Childlike and fundamentall way, to Thy Temporal and Eternall welfare, blessedness or Happiness and Salvation: Then thou wilt assuredly, in these hitherto unknown to the world, yet very Christian and divinely blessed Epistles; find a distinct plain Glimps and Relish thereof to thy satisfaction and content.
2. Which, we in that regard, among other causes, not without extraordinary paines and Cost, have brought to light and published, whereby the searcher of the divine and Naturall WONDERS and se∣cret Mysteries, might have a true Exemplar or Patterne, and that not taken out of Books of humane Art, but such instruction as is received and brought forth, out of the Divinely revealed and Living EXPERI∣ENCE; every one according to his own Measure; and might thereby honourably and edifyingly, build up and refresh or quicken himself in a Christian brotherly Ʋnion and Communion.
3. As, the right manner of understanding and use of these writings, especially with repentant and Operating fruit, in all blessedness and wayes of Salvation, will cleerly and further Manifest.
4. Concerning the Author JACOB BOEME called the Theu∣tonick of Old-Seidenburg; in his other herein mentio∣ned and signified, Wonder-writings, More will be mentioned and declared concerning his Person and Gift; where the desirous seeker may find it; and with these truly Christian Epistles he may be prepared in the future the more fitly to peruse the Great work of his other writings.
5. Which we also with the assistance of God, for the higher know∣ledg of the present More scornefull and perverted, then divinely Lear∣ned
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world, in divine and Naturall wisdome: not sparing either diligent Labour or Cost; for the honour and benefit of the Germane or High-Dutch Nation, here attempted the work of publishing them in Print under the Title following.
THEOSOPHIA THEUTONICA Oder OFFERBAHRVNG Gottlicher und Naturlicher WEISHEIT.
THEOSOPHIA TEUTONICA OR The Revelation of Divine and Naturall WISDOME
Subscribed. Abraham von Frankenberg.
M. L. H.
H. B.
A. V. F.
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The Ninth Epistle To C. B. Of the 12. September 1620.
Light, Salvation and Eternall Power, out of the wel-spring or fountaine of the Heart of JESUS CHRIST, be our re∣freshing or Quickning, and Enlivening.
1. HOnourable and Esteemed Sir: and in Christ, loving Brother, the Letter you sent me, with the inclosed Rix-Doller, I re∣ceived, and returne you thanks for it, God will, according to his word, richly repay it.
2. Although* 4.1 the Gifts of God are not sold for Money of any of this worlds Good, yet I find in you, according to your Letter, an Earnest diligence, in that you are desirous to study the divine wisdome, and that you have a Zeale, your self to write out a Copy, of that which is given me from God out of Grace; and I ac∣knowledge it to be done out of Thankfulness and obedience to∣wards God; and in that regard, I also willingly accept it.
3. And exhort you brotherly in Christ, that you proceed according to the Course you have begun, to strive as a Constant Soldier, against own-self outward Reason in Flesh and Bloud; also against the Devill and the Hypocriticall flattering Evill world; with firme trust and Confidence in God, with a zealous Spirit and Minde, in a still quiet Life: whereby you may obtaine the Noble Crown or Garland of Victory; which indeed assisteth a young fellow-companion fearing God and is very acceptible, in the presence of God and his Angells: which if it be once set upon you, you will well discerne* 4.2 What God IS and CAN doe.
4. And then you will not much need to learn of others when the right Teacher is IN your selfe; who Teacheth ALL Men. and confirmeth that to Gods Children which he teacheth from or out of Man; for† 4.3 the Kingdome of God is IN Man; if he be borne a∣gaine in Christ.
5. As you will find it sufficiently described in my writings, which are not proceeded or sprung from conceipt or Opinion, but in such a way, as themselves signifie and Express: viz. con∣cerning
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the Soldierly Combat, and what I have attained thereby, and HOW I have overcome.
6. I have written this for my own Remembrance and Me∣ditation, also for their sakes, whom God will visit or stirre up thereby, and also Crowne with THIS Garland, as indeed is given me to know, for which things sake, I have written according to the High Gifts in the Light of God, and suppressed the outward Reason as folly or a foolish Virgin, and not advanced my out∣ward Life and honour thereby, because much scorne and per∣secution hath become my wages, besides, what further may attend me at hand.
7. But I account it enough for me, if I may but bring my Garland along with me out of this world into my true na∣tive Fathers Country, then have I honour enough and riches enough;* 4.4 The Serpent must still in this life alwayes bruise or sting the womans Seede in the Heele.
8. In the Crosse affliction and tribulation,† 4.5 we must be borne anew, for,* 4.6 If we would live with Christ, we must also be perse∣cuted with him, and dye with him, and be buried in him, also rise againe in Him, and Eternally live in him; become wholly† 4.7 con∣formable to his Image, and come to him only under his Purple Man∣tle, he only must cover us, else we are in the Devills and Antichrists Nett, and stand with the Babylonish Whore quite Naked; and a∣shamed before the Countenance of God.
9. But seeing God hath already opened your Heart, so that you see with other Eyes; therefore it is highly necessary to proceed on, and to remaine Constant; for he that will crowne you is already upon the way, but you must* 4.8 endure the Affliction and hold out, and not give way or roome to the fleshly Reason, for the Devill vehemently sets upon the Graine of Mustardseede, which becometh sowne by the Holy Spirit, he would continually destroy it.
10. It goeth with a New borne Child of Christ, as with a young tender Tree, which is easily destroyed, but when it groweth and becometh strong, then it can stand; and though likely many times a Branch is torne off by a storme of winde, yet the Stock or Body standeth; and bringeth forth other Branches.
11. But it must be earnestness that will fight with the Devill and overcome the Anger of God; Owne Reason must drown and kill IT self, and give it self up into God, that God might live in the understanding of Man; that he might be his willing and doing, else there is no finding in the divine wisdome; the Spirit of God must only find it selfe in Man, that the true Image may be his work and wonder.
12. For, all whatsoever is taught and spoken concerning
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God, without the Spirit of God, is but Babell, let it play the hy∣pocrite and flatter how it will, Gods spirit must speake from or out of US, if our speech be acceptible before God.
13. For, he himself presenteth us before God; for, and in, himself, he bringeth our will-spirit with, and in, himself, into God, and confirmeth us to be his children in Christ; it is HE that findeth us, WE cannot finde him, but his Will standeth presented to us, HE hath IN Christ, spread abroad both his Armes on the Crosse; to receive or embrace us; we should only cast our selves into or upon him, and goe forth out of Reason and Malice.
14. If we doe that, then we fall to him into Christs Armes, and there he seeketh and findeth us in him, and, there we become his owne and his dwelling house; and there he followeth after our will-spirit, and† 4.9 is subject to us, and all whatsoever we then performe or doe, THAT is acceptable to him, and* 4.10 all those works follow us, and are our Eternall boasting, and become put on to us, as a garment, to Gods honour and deeds of wonder;† 4.11 for which things sake, God hath moved himself to the Creation of Man, and for which things sake God became Man, that he might deliver us from Evill.
15. Therefore seeing you have my writings in your hands, I give you to understand, that you should only Childelike and simply consider them; and so you may finde the Pearle therein; for sharp or accute* 4.12 searching alone doth it not; but to will and doe WELL; for the Pearle lyeth not in the LETTER, but as above mentioned.
16. In the Book that is sent with this, which also is borne out of this Schoole, you will finde further ground concerning this Authour.
17. But if any thing shall be too hard in the Understanding I would, if you signifie it unto me, cleere and illustrate it, though I hope once to speak with your self herein, if an Opportu∣nity afford.
18. As for the Two other little bookes, viz: the New Testament, and Third part of† 4.13 Gnothi Seaut•n; have a little patience, for they are not yet in my hands, till the Leipsick Mart, Leipsick. but I am confident, then they shall be sent you. And I commend you into the brotherly Love in Christ.
Dated as above.
The NAME of the LORD is a strong Fortress; the righteous runneth into it and is Exalted.
Jacob Behme.
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The Thirteenth Epistle To C. B. 8. Junii, 1612.
The open Fountaine in the Heart of Jesus Christ be our Quickening or refreshings!
1. HOnourable and Esteemed Sir: high friend in the Love of Christ; after wishing you all health and welfare, I acquaint you friendly, that this* 4.14 writing accompanying this Letter, is sought and read by many learned and Noble Persons; with delight and Longing desire; and are so very much spread abroad, that I very much wonder at it, and it is done wholly without my knowledge.
2. Men very much, in all† 4.15 Silesia as also in many places in the* 4.16 Mark, Meissen and Saxony, as letters dayly come to my hand that are sent, signifying the desire of them; also eminent people; Entreate they may be put in Print; which to me at pre∣sent, while Babell Burneth, is not acceptible or convenient, but will have its Time: for the† 4.17 Aureum seculum or Golden Age, will begin to spring in the Midst of the Fire in Ba∣bell.
3. This I mention faithfully from a true heart, for you to Consider, and to stir you up, in the desire, in our IMMANUELL, as one of the first Fruits, comprehended under* 4.18 the Sound of the Seaventh Trumpet.
4.† 4.19 Seeke, sayth Christ, and you shall find; the Noble PEARLE, revealeth or Manifesteth it selfe in those, which at present seeke it; for it is an acceptible Time, BOTH in Heaven and Hell; both Dores stand at present open with their desire: It is a time to seeke ones self; let none take it otherwise then in Earnest; else he falleth home into the fierce wrathfull Anger of God, and will be comprehended in the Vengeance of the fierce wrath.
5. Onely be humble a little while under the Crosse; May will well bring forth* 4.20 ITS Roses, and the Lilly branch, its fruit.
6. It is well for him that hath it in his heart, it will serve to
Page 7
his highest honour, for this worlds honour is but Dung to the Divine.
7. This I mention to you as to my beloved in the LORD Christ; from a true Heart, to put you in Mind and encourage you in the LORD.
8. And I commend you to the Love of JESUS CHRIST.
Dated at* 4.21 Gerlitz as above.
Your willing Servant, Jacob Behme.
The fourteenth Epistle Of the 21. Junij 1661. To C. B.
The Open well-spring or fountain in the heart of Jesus Christ, be our quickning or refreshing.
1. MY Dear Herr Christianus, and high friend. Your welfare and happinesse is alwayes dear to me. I send you herewith, De tribus Principiis, the Book of the Three Principles; to write it out fully, if you please, and I exhort you in the Love of Christ, as one member should do to the other; to be diligent in study and prayer to God; that our Faith and knowledge, may grow and take place one among another; and that we at length, might reap the fruit thereof, and enjoy it.
2. Be only watchfull in Christ, to fight against the Reason and the world, and the will of the FLESH; and fight like a valiant Souldier; your victory is in the Lord; who will set it upon Thee, when it plea∣seth him.
3. The Crown is deposited and laid by for you, for which you Fight, it will not repent you; but the Wound-Marks of Christ you must bear in this world, and* 4.22 be conformable to his Image: else you attain NOT the Crown: this I acquaint you with, in a brotherly Manner.
4. Prepare your self diligently, for there is a Great Storm at hand; that you may be preserved to the praise of God, and to the year of the Lilly which springeth: committing you to the Love of Jesus Christ.
I pray you after you have written it out; to send it again, for it is desired; Scholars are found to whom it is to be lent.
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The Nineteenth Epistle of the 3. July 1622. to Herr † 4.23 C. B.
Gods Grace, Salvation and Eternall Light, be our quickning or refreshing.
1. TRuly honourable, and esteemed Sir: my very loving good friend; Let my willing and diligent service at all times be presented, to∣gether with the Desire of all welfare and happinesse to you.
2. Your Letter sent to me in the Advent, I have received, and understand your very industrious and Christian Mind and desire; and though I am a stranger to you, yet I have out of Herr Walters Letter sufficient information concerning your* 4.24 Conversation and Per∣son.
3. And moreover, he giveth me to know, your very longing and industrious desire, in your Letter you sent me, and therein I am not only willing, to receive you into my skill and friendship, but I rejoyce most highly, that such a Mind as yours is born of God; and I exhort you Christianly to remain stedfast therein: and then you will attain all whatsoever your honourable Mind wisheth or desireth; and you will in a while experience, in your selfe; what manner of writings they are, which you as I perceive, have lately received from Herr Walter, though I suppose you have very little perused them.
4. But there shall very shortly, if you be desirous of it, a very excellent cleer work, be sent to you, which will highly rejoyce you, for as I perceive from Mr. Walter and also from your selfe, the Authour of them is unknown to you, he may well come to be known to you, if you have a longing after the Noble or precious Stone, Lapis Philo∣sophorum, the Philosophers-Stone, spiritually.
5. Then in that, when you attain it, you will have the Highest Joy; you will love and esteem it above Gold and all the world, for it is fairer or brighter then the SUN, and more costly or precious then the Heaven, and whosoever findeth it, is Richer then any Prince on Earth; he hath the Art and understanding of the whole world, and in him lyeth hidden ALL the POWERS of Heaen and Earth.
6.† 4.25 You have with Mary elected or chosen the best part, in that you set your youth not on worldly pomp state or Pride, but do offer it up to God; and though you thereby Sit a little while in dark obscuri∣ty,
Page 9
yet you will therefrom attain Eternall Light, this I commend to you friendly and intend it faithfully.
7. And it will well hereafter be discovered to you, who is the Authour of the writing; and it shall faithfully be imparted to you, for there is but a small part of them come to your hands: but there hath been a hinderance that I could not now send them with this, you shall shortly have them if you have a mind to them.
8. You will see very precious Noble rare and excellent things, which for the most part have been hidden from the beginning of the world hitherto: about which all the Learned have danced and sought after them, and some have supposed they had the Noble Stone: but the Time was not yet come: which God vouchsafeth to the last world. Herewith I commend you to the divine protection and Grace.
Dated as above.
Your alwayes willing Servant, Jacob Behme.
The One and Twentieth Epistle of the 8. July 1621. An Herrn C. B.
I Intimately hint to you, that you prepare; for the vehement Tribula∣tion, will exceedingly, seize upon some of our Countrey.
2. But do you seek diligently, to include or inclose your self in THAT Peace, which Christ hath brought again to us, and to defend your self with it, as with a Wall or Fortresse.
3. For BABEL must drink up an earnest severe draught, and even that which she hath procured with Abomination, all Chains and Bands will flie asunder and not hold, and all will fly in peeces; but when it stands cleerly so;* 4.26 THEN cometh suddenly the destruction.
4. The Highnesse or lostinesse of the world, is it self blind at pre∣sent, and will not see what it doth to it self, but will shortly become Seeing,* 4.27 when the MISERY will passe upon, or seize upon, Body and Soul. And I commend you into the Meek or Gentle Love of Jesus Christ.
Dated as above.
Your willing Servant, Jacob Behme.
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The Three and Twentieth Epistle of the 29. October 1621. An Herr C. B.
Emanuel!
1. HOnourable, much beloved High friend in Christ. I wish to you only and solely, what my Soul wisheth continually and desi∣reth from God; viz: the right true knowledge of God, in the Love of JESUS CHRIST; that the* 4.28 bright Morning Starre, might continu∣ally arise to you and shine in you, through this vale of Misery, to your Eternall Joy.
2. And I exhort you in the Love of Christ: out of my hearty good intentions towards you, that you go on and remain constant in the way you have begun in CHRISTS Warfare, that the little Pa∣radisicall Tree or Plant may spring and take root, you will afterwards well see your Noble or precious fruit, and Eternally enjoy it, and sufficiently refresh your self therewith, though indeed it be covered a long while with the Earthly Field or Soyl, yet the Noble GOLD springeth or groweth without any Ceasing at all.
3. How it goes with your brother at† 4.29 Beuten, to whom you have lent those writings, and what Judgement he maketh of them, were very acceptable to me to know, for there are more people at Beuten besides, who also have some of them, and exceedingly desire the other; and you would shew a service to your loving brother and others, if you would lend them what they shall desire more, of them: I will send you somewhat more shortly, which yet you want.
4. Herr Caspar Lindner, Customer at Beuten and one of the Councill, is also a Lover of them, if he shall desire any of them, you should do well; to lend them to him, he useth not to keep them Long.
5. These writings are spread abroad farre and wide in many Coun∣tries; among high and Low, and partly hath sounded and been known to highly Learned people: God guide it to his honour and Glory.
6. I send you with directions Three Sacks for the Corn which Herr Rodolf will send, pray take so much pains for me as to receive it: when Specht or the other from* 4.30 Rausche will come over, if you see him tell him of it, and bid him take it up, I will seek about for him and tell him as much, he will bring it to me very well, I will requite it again friendly. And I commend you into the Love of JESUS CHRIST.
Dated as above.
Your willingly serviceable Friend and Brother, Jacob Behme.
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The Six and Twentieth Epistle of the 28. of Aprill, 1622. An Herrn C. B.
The Open fountain in the Heart of Jesus Christ, be our quickning or refreshing, and constant Light.
1. HOnourable and esteemed, in Christ Loving Sir and friend, let my faithfull wishes for you, of the Love and Grace of our Saviour Christ, and all temporall wellfare, be presented to you.
2. When I perceived from the forementioned People, how much Sir, you are a Lover of God and of the study of wisdome; I could not forbear, faithfully from a true heart; although in a manner, I am un∣known to you; to seek you with this Letter out of a Christian Mind, and to procure acquaintance with you.
3. For it joyeth me at the Heart, when I perceive, how Gods Love worketh in his Children, and I rejoyce with and in them, in the Lifes-Tree Jesus Christ, in and out of which, we become begot∣ten and new born, and are branches or little sprouts in him.
4. Therefore hath my mind stirred me up, to seek and to refresh my self with you Sir as with my fellow Member, in the Spirit and Love of Christ;* 4.31 though absent, yet in the will-spirit present, especially in this troublesome time, wherein we are surrounded with Enemies on all sides, and that our Tree, is very weak and withered in many Branches.
5. But seeing the Grace-Sun, JESUS CHRIST, at present shineth with a bright aspect on us, and openeth his Dore, of Love and high knowledge, in many severall Gifts, so that we know the great won∣ders of his unsuperable wisdome; therefore we should do well to † 4.32 exhort one another in Love as Brethren,* 4.33 and go out from BABEL which is kindled or inflamed in the Anger-Fire of God, for it is really a time of great earnestnesse or severity, wherein we should seek with great earnestnesse to know our selves, and see where we are.
6. And yet it is so, that men see at present many glorious faire sprouts, as it were with wonder, in the Tree of CHRIST, also in the Midst in the fire of God, at which I highly rejoyce, that the Grace-Sun, shineth forth again in bright cleernesse, and that God still keepeth his faithfull promise.
7. In that he saith in Isaiah,† 4.34 He hath signed or imprinted us in his hands, which in some Men at present sheweth it self in Power, how the Fountain of JESUS CHRIST worketh powerfully in them; which in* 4.35 short time will be done yet more strongly, as he hath pro∣mised
Page 12
us in his Prophets,† 4.36 That in the Last time, he will pour out his Spi∣rit upon all Flesh,* 4.37 and the Gospell of God shall be preached in all the world, for a witnesse to all Nations; And also now more and more the time draweth neer at hand, that the Beast together with the whore in the Apocalips or Revelations, shall be destroyed, Therefore we may well† 4.38 Lift up our heads to the Mountains of God, and rejoyce, therefore, that our Redemption draweth neer.
8. Seeing then God hath intrusted me with a little Talent, of his Noble Bounty, out of his well-spring or Fountain of Christ, to know BOTH the Heavenly and also the outward Naturall wisdome.
9. I have therefore the more refreshing in the Children of the wisdome of Christ; and though I may be unknown to you Sir, yet you should not account me in your Mind a stranger, who is bound thereto, as a Member in the Love of Christ, and I entreat, if you please, that you would take me into your friendship and acquain∣tance.
10. Till our Noble Pearl Tree of Christ, shall be become manife∣sted IN Ʋs,* 4.39 AFTER the Vale of this Tabernacle, and that we shall dwell together in a brotherly Communion, and THEN we will indeed recreate our selves in, that which we have begun here in a brother∣ly union, and in that regard, though absent as to the body, we will in the Spirit and fore-taste thereof, exhort and comfort one another, and I pray you friendly to observe it.
11. By Herrn D. G. You May Sir see somewhat of my Gifts, if you have a Mind, to behold your selfe in the divine Exorcise in high or sublime divine things, which are indeed high, and yet are descri∣bed in the meanest and lowest simplicity.
12. But since it is intrusted to me, as Gods Bounty, there∣fore I impart it very willingly and faithfully to the hungry Hearts.
13. And I will commend you Sir, and yours into the Meek Love of Jesus Christ, and intreat you in my behalfe to salute Herr J. B. as a Lover, as also Herr J. G. B. friendly:
Dated at* 4.40 Gerlitz as above.
Sir,
Your willing Servant, Jacob Behme.
Page 13
The Seaven and Twentith Epistle of the 21. Junij 1622. An Herrn C. B.
The Open Fountain of Jesus Christ be our quickning or refreshing and Constant Light.
1. MY very worthy and Loving friend, I wish you and yours, and to all the Children of Christ, in the Kingdome of our Angelicall Fraternity, Gods Love and Blessing, that the fountain of Christ in us, may spring up, grow and bear much Fruit, in which sprouting, our true Regeneration consisteth, and I hope assuredly in God, as indeed is shewed to me, that the time is NEER at hand, wherein it will cleerly sprout, which I rejoyce at.
2. And though at present I see the fire burn in Babell, yet out of the FIRE will exist a cleer shining Light, which will drive away the dark night, but through a great anxious Birth, will THAT be gene∣rated.
3. I exhort my loving brethren, that they would give up them∣selves into that anxious birth or Geniture, that they may also sprout forth in the Life of God, in the Light; and not be comprehended in the Turba; which abominably, at present spreadeth abroad with its Properties; viz: with Covetousnesse, Envy, Anger, and Pride, and the Fruits that grow out from thence, powerfully draweth its fire to it, in which they cleerly burn in many places.
4. I have upon desire and entreaty, made a little Book of Repentance; together with a form of Prayer; which is all very Earnestly, and a right beginning and Entrance into the Theosophick School,* 4.41 which upon desire I herewith send to Herr R. B. G. at Weicha, and entreat you, to send it to him, and you may please to open it, and if you please also to write a Copy of it speedily, only let the writing to Herr R. remain sealed.
5. And that you will not, if it may be, keep it above three or four dayes by you, seeing it is small, it may be soon Copied out, and be sent to Herr R.
6. Also your Brother is not to be forgotten; for without doubt it will be acceptable to him, and be a true KEY, whom I accor∣ding to my salutations desire as much good for, as to my owne Life.
Page 14
7. If you would enter into the Practice of this Book, then you would soon experience, its profit, for it is generated out of an anxious Twig, through Fire, and it was and is my own very process or way, whereby I have attained the PEARL of the divine know∣ledge.
8. And though indeed, I must live in weaknesse or infirmity as other Men, yet the Pearl is more dear to me then all the worlds Good, for the sake of which I willingly suffer and bear all, that I may but retain or keep that.
9.* 4.42 Yet I herewith acquaint you, that Herr D. A. B. M. at Sagan, hath written to me now the Third Time, and desired friendship with me, and earnestly entreated me to lend him some of these wri∣tings.
10. But though I have almost none of mine at home, yet I would serve him with somewhat to Copy out; and see whether it might turn to Gods honour; but if you observe, that it is to find fault with them, or pry censoriously into them, which yet I hope to be other∣wise, then you will know further what to do.
11. Build and get encrease, as you have gotten encrease, from the Divine Grace, you will well* 4.43 reap what you have sown.
12. But as soon as you can, send him this Letter, written to him, together with a Treatise of your writing, and signifie to him, that he should not keep it long as some do.
13. He is truly esteemed by me, yet Men should see what God will do; with the book of Repentance herewith sent, when you have copied it out, you may well get encrease, for, it hath a great Harvest, and None is much against it, if he be but a Man and Not a Beast. Thus I commend you to the meek Love of JESUS CHRIST!
Dated as above.
Your willing Servant and Brother, Jacob Behme.
Page 15
The One and Thirtieth Epistle of the 12. November 1622. To Herr C. B.
V. H. I. L. I. C. Our Salvation is in the Life of Jesus Christ.
1. MY very loving Sir and worthy friend, I wish you much Joy in the Power of the Divine Vision, Inventibility and Perceptibility; together with bodily welfare; and I rejoyce at your stedfastnesse in the divine Exercise, which to me is a Mark of the Eternall Fraternity, in the Divine Essence, and I exhort you in Love therein to remain, in earnest stedfastnesse; and to wait for the Eternall Wages, only not to turn to worldly scorn and Apish-Mimick works, or Imitation.
2. For a true Christian, must not onely be a Mouth or Verball Christian, but walk in Christ, in his way or Processe, and* 4.44 put on Christ: which I hope is cleerly done by you, only do not put on the Devills flattering or Hypocriticall worldly Vizard: for this Time is short upon which the Eternall wages followeth; and pray salute in my behalfe your brethren and fellow-brethren in the Lord.
3. I send you here Two Sacks, and pray you to take the pains to fill them with Corn, and take notice and seal it a little, in the Sack there is a packet to Herr Rudolphen von Gerdorf, and to Herr Frede∣rick von Kregwitz: which should only be sent to Herr Gersdorffen, he will send Herr Kregwitz's part well enough: but pray take the pains to convey it to Herr Gersdorffen, if you cannot light upon a Messenger to your Mind, then send it by a Messenger on purpose, he will be well payed by Gersdorffen, else I will pay him my selfe if he do not.
4. Pray make up the pack again, for I have left it unsealed for you, there is with each Letter a Treatise annexed, which are usefull for you, you should do well to copy them out with the soonest conveni∣ency, and then speedily without further delay, send it to the fore∣mentioned place.
5. But pray pack each Treatise to its proper peculiar Letter, and seal that by it selfe, that each Treatise may not want its own Let∣ter.
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6. By Herr Kregwitz Letter you should only write out the bound or stitched Treatise, the other two sheets that are loose, or unsewed, you may have of Herr Gersdorffen: Kregwitz, hath the beginning, fair.
7.* 4.45 Concerning the List of Books from Herr Lindenern at Beuten, I answer, that those Mentioned Books are all mine, which were all made half a year agoe, and part of them this Summer. That which you have now received of Gersdorffen, is one against the Methists, and here in Kregwitz writing you may find also one of true Resignation, the other are partly great ones, especially the Book de signatura Rerum, the sig∣nature or impresse of things, concerning the Originall of the Creati∣on and of its Form or Impression, a very high work of fourty one sheets which is copied out once and again.
8.* 4.46 Doctor Brux hath also one, and Doctor Gyller of Troppen, hath one, when I have gotten them into my hands, I will send you still one after another; do but signifie to me when you have leisure to write, if you will write out those which you have now gotten from Gersdorffen, you may do it, only first write out the Two which I now send with this, and send them away, and send over to me with the Corn, Herr Gers∣dorff's writing.
9.* 4.47 Concerning the Cosacks; I acquaint you, that they lye in Leuten-meritz in Boehmia, even to Lippe, and very much wast the Country, it is said they are to draw by us, and go towards Po∣land.
10.* 4.48 But we have nothing certain; but I suppose they will remain in Boehmia or Lusatia, and not see Poland, for we shall shortly have new Times, the Present Peace is not firme, for the sicknesse is to Death, and was never greater, as time will manifest.
11. But how else it is with you, and what your Condition is, I would fain know, if you had written me what to pay, I would have sent it to you, I know Sir, well enough that you will have opportu∣nity to write it out: and I commend you to the Love of JESUS CHRIST.
Jacob Behme.
Page 17
The Four and Thirtieth Epistle of the 13. December, 1622. To Herrn C. B.
Our Salvation is in the Life of Jesus Christ.
1. MY very Loving and worthy Sir, and good friend: I wish unto you, Gods rich Grace, in the Temporall and Eternall Salvation! And acquaint you, that I have safely recei∣ved your Letter.
2. Also I rejoyce, at your constant divine Mind, which I hope in God, doth still more and more grow and increase in divine know∣ledge, wherein Sir you are bound up therewith, in the band of the Living God, and may be defended in This great Tribulation, which at present is begun.
3. It is time earnestly, at present to shelter our selves in the fountain of Life, JESUS CHRIST: for the Sword of Gods Anger will mightily Cut, and be set against Body and Soul.
4. Therefore we should do well to bannish the Antichrist, the Beast and the whore out of the HEART; for they shall and must fall, but in whomsoever they shall still be found, those will the Turba take away with them.
5. Next Spring, I have a purpose if God permit and afford us so much peace and quiet, to see you Personally, and a little supply, what is necessary, as also with other good friends and brethren in Christ, and I exhort you faithfully to prepare for Tribulation, for it can∣not otherwise be, it is neer and goeth on mightily in Turba Magna, in the Great Turba.
6. This dear time of scarcity, will be greater, and be brought into great Necessity; and every one should apply himself to earnest Since∣rity, Great Warres Uproars and Insurrections Calamity and Death, will mightily fall in, in a short time.
This Sir, I acquaint you with, in my knowledge, for your bro∣therly consideration.
7. But if you have any desire to read my writings, you may pro∣cure them from Herr Doctor Gersdorffe: I have written to him about
Page 18
you, he will be very well contented therewith, and thus I commit you to the Meek gentle Love of Jesus Christ!
Dated in haste as above.
Your willing Servant, Jacob Behme.
The Fortieth Epistle To Herr C. B. of the 13. October 1623.
V. H. I. L. I. C. I. V. Vnser. Heil. Im. Leben. Iesu. Christi. In. Ʋns! Our. Salvation, is in. the Life. of Jesus. Christ. In. Us!
1. VEry loving Sir, Brother Christianus, I wish you the operative power of God, that the fountain in the Life of JESUS CHRIST may flow up in you* 4.49 richly, and that your Soul may continually be satisfied and refreshed, therein; and may drink of this holy water, and therein grow and sprout, and bear much good fruit: as also bo∣dily welfare!
2. And I rejoyce at your happy condition, and that God hath re∣stored your house or family to health again, praised be God; that you are yet in health, and know it operatively in my Talent; for God hath more and more opened to me his Grace-Dore, and not alone to ME, but also to many OTHERS, who get to read these writings, whose heart God hath touched; so that they are entered into repen∣tance and Conversion or amendment; and are in themselves come to the Inward divine vision, and desire to cast away the Garment of Sinnes and Impurity, and to follow CHRIST in Life and Will.
Page 19
3. As indeed a few dayes agoe, such a Motion of Two Persons were presented to me, who indeed are high in the world, and loved the world before; In whom I saw the New Birth in Great power, and in triumph of Divine Knowledge, in such humility and deepe expression; that I never saw the like from my very childhood, except what God hath wrought in my selfe poore Man, which had not been possible for me to beleeve, if I had not found it by Expe∣rience, and had the like.
4. One of which did despise himself as to his Earthly worlds matters, and disesteemed his former conversation; who did also, so deeply sink downe into Resignation and into Repentance, that he accounted himself TOO unworthy, to pour out his Prayers be∣fore God, but esteemed himself as dead and altogether unworthy, and fell into Gods Mercy, let him doe through and with him what he would, and that he would pray and Repent through him.
5. Upon which instantly the divine SUN shone in him, and through his Mouth for THREE houres spake nothing Else but these words* 4.50 GOD,† 4.51 Dung, GOD, Dung; And accounted HIMSELF as Dung in the presence of GOD; in which Expression, the divine Sun of the joyfullness and Great Knowledge arose; and wholly carried about and renewed his Heart and Minde.
6. Upon which, he to ether with another Man in the like condition came to me; after I had seen that Motion in him, and did highly rejoyce with me in that through my Book of Repentance, THEY were brought to IT.
7. As indeed in a little time many MORE also were seen in the Like condition, so that thus I did with great wonder per∣ceive; how the Doore of Grace so mightily moved it self, and in those who are earnest, openeth it self: as hath a long time before been shewed to me: in which deare Sir and brother, I in cer∣taine truth, and in the presence of God, doe relate and shew to you, seeing you are one of the First Fruits of those to whose hands this Talent is come through the divine appointment.
8. Which you have also received with Joy, and have taken great pains therewith, and though you do not long after such a thing as above mentioned, concerning the TWO Persons, nor labour for it, that you might receive it from God; which if you did, would be a great Joy to me in my spirit; yet indeed a Man should not purpose to receive from God, according to his owne will, but only sink downe into Gods will; as the forementioned
Page 20
Persons; that God might with him, doe, know, will, and en∣lighten, and leade him, how HE will.
9. But I would informe you of this in Love, for I well know, that your Soule will together with them and me rejoyce thereat also.
10. Further I acquaint you, that God hath brought some Pha∣risees, which were such before, and reproached me, to the Light, and Converted them, so that they desire to have and read these writings; and now teach the New Birth and Renovation in the Spirit of CHRIST, and doe esteem and teach, that all Disputa∣tion is Dung, and an unprofitable frivolous thing, but direct men to the LIFE of Christ, as indeed they are newly de∣sired and written for, by high Potentates or Great men, so that it is hoped the Day-Break is neere at hand.
11. For it is found moreover, at present, that our LEARNED Men love them very much, with whom I have much conversation, this I mention for your consideration, because it is well known to me, that with you also the Wolfe standeth behinde the Lamb; and would de∣voure all.
12.* 4.52 Yet be of good Comfort, and help to pray and work, for our wages will be given to us in PARADISE, we should not de∣sire wages HERE; for† 4.53 we are Christs Branches on his vine, and should beare good fruit unto him; which he himself worketh or bringeth forth through US.
13. God will fill our Bellies well enough; let us only be contented with a little,* 4.54 he will take care for us: though it may be he often permitteth Tribulation, yet it will come to a good End or Issue, and though it may be we must suffer disgrace and Misery for his knowledge sake, also if we should altogether loose the outward Life for it;† 4.55 yet must all serve for the Best, to the Children of God; for it continueth here but for a Moment, upon which our Harvest followeth,* 4.56 of that which we have sewen.
14. I pray Sir from me salute your brother the† 4.57 Conrector, with the Salutation of our Lord JESUS CHRIST, as also all those who know me in Love, and Love me in the Truth; with whom you are acquainted and have to doe; and so I commit you together with them, to the Meeke Love of Jesus Christ!
Dated as above.
Your willing Servant in the Love of Christ. Jacob Behme.
Page 21
The Three and Fortieth Epistle To Herr C, B. Of the 27. of December, 1623.
Our Salvation is in the Life of Jesus Christ in us.
1. DEarely beloved Sir Christianus; after wishing you the Divine Love-working! I would faine know, your condition how it is with you, whether you are still assaulted with the Pharisaicall ve∣nome or Poyson; whose Fire is neere, wherein it shall be Transmuted or changed, under which we waite in divine Patience; for I perceive, that very poyson with you in Babell, will burne very much against me and you.
2. But I have seen also on the contrary to that, the Great Love-Fire to be kindled in some, so that I know certainly that the time of the divine visitation is NEERE and cleerly at hand: you together with me, and other Children of CHRIST, should take it in Patience till the Anger of God overthrow the Evill Beast, toge∣ther with the Whore.
3. We ought as Children of Christ, to suffer with Christ, and in suffering to be made conformable to his Image; only let it not seeme strange to you, if the world hate you and be fiercely enraged with you; it must be so, the worlds Enmity is our Exaltation in CHRIST, for we are strange Guests in the world, and wander in the Pilgrims Path into our Fathers or Native Country againe•: And Commit you to the Love of JESUS CHRIST!
Dated as above.
Yours in the Love of Jesus Christ well known, Jacob Behme.
Page 22
The Five and Fortieth Epistle To Herr C. B. Of the 4. of Aprill. 1624.
Our Salvation is in the Life of Jesus Christ In ƲS.
1. MY very loving Sir, Christianus, after the Working Love of our LORD Jesus Christ, in Soule and Body, desired for you; I acquaint you: I have safely received both your Letters together with your packet of both the Bookes.
2. But I have been come home these Few dayes after I had Journeyed eight dayes and almost nights, and have not been at home these Six weekes, else I would have answered you long agoe: also as soon as I came home, I sent a little Letter,* 4.58 to Zitta for your Bookes; and informed the Herr who formerly did bid five Rixdollers for them, that they were with me, but he was not at home;* 4.59 but Journeyed to Dresden, and I have yet no answer from him, till he come home, If I could find him any where Else, I would willingly do it.
3. And I further acquaint you; that Satan in our Chief Priest, is enraged against the* 4.60 printed little Book, and as it were raving and Mad, with Cursing and reproaching, lying and Murthering, so that I powerfully see; that this Book is totally against the Devill, and he would faine murther me for it, and I must at present because of his horrible persecution stand under the Crosse of CHRIST, and beare the Marks of his wounds for the Devill vomits out now his Last Poyson.
4. How it is with your Father and Brother, together with the Conrector, whom I desire you to salute from me, I would faine know; and what Men with YOU, Judg of the printed Book, and whether it be reproached: With US, many hungry Hearts rejoyce at it. But the Chief Evill Man or Superintendent, relisheth it NOT;
Page 23
seeing it teacheth Repentance and Prayer. And so I commend you to the Love of our LORD Jesus Christ:
* 4.61 Dated in Gerlitz: as a∣bove.
Your alwayes in the Love of Christ true faithfull friend, Jacob Behme.
The Six and Fortieth Epistle Of the 6. of Aprill. 1624. To Herr. J. S.
Our Salvation is in the Life of Jesus Christ in US.
1. MY Deare and Worthy friend, Sir John Sigismund, after my hearty wishing of the Continuall Enduring Love working, of our Lord Jesus Christ, in Soule and Spirit, that the Sun of the Divine, Love may Eternally shine, in, your heavenly Talent given you of God, that I might Eternally rejoyce my self with you.
2. At present I acquaint you, that Satan is so very Angry a∣gainst us, as if we had destroyed his Totall Hell, whereas it is but only begun in some Few Men, that his Den of Robbery is stormed and assaulted.
3. But seeing we will not afford him any Lodging further in Our selves therefore he is become so raving against us, that he sup∣poseth he shall cast us out of the world, that thereby No more such little Hearbes or Lillies may grow in his supposed Garden, which he would have planted with sinne in Adam; which we will submit to our Lord God, and leave it to him, what he will use* 4.62 US his new planted Rosebud for, and stand still with Patience in Hope, under the Crosse of our Lord Jesus Christ, and † 4.63 heare what the Lord will say, what he will doe with his Instru∣ment.
4. As I came from you home, I found Satans prepared Bed,
Page 24
wherein he would have laid me; If God had not hindred it through some honest hearts, to whom our way is more known.
5. For the Superindent, or Chiefe Pharisee, viz. the* 4.64 Primate, hath so vehemently raged against the Printed Booke, as if his sonne had been murthered, and all his Goods burnt; and hath vomited out such a heap of Lyes against me, together with such reproach∣full taking away my reputation, as in his herewith sent publique † 4.65 Pasquill Pamphlet or Libell, is to be read.
6. Such shamefull lying and scandall, he hath not only broa∣ched in the Pulpit, but also hath written about it to* 4.66 Lignitz to the Pastor called Frisius, and desireth him not only to proclaime it in the Pulpit as he also hath done, but cause it to be printed; and admoni∣nisheth him to complaine against it to the Councill-Court at Gerlitz, and present it in such Names, as if it were the Complaint of ALL the Priests in Weichbild Lignitz against my writings Especially against the printed Little Book.
7. This hath Frisius done, and represented me to a Councillor at Gerlitz: upon the Desire of our Primate, so, with a Lying Letter.
8. Upon this, our Primate, hath often run to the Chiefest Lords of our City, and so vehemently raged against me with Lyes, and exclaimed against me, and desired, that as soon as I should come home, they might put me into Prison, and then banish me out of the City, also he put in such a Lying complaint to the Councill, and Even fired Hell against me and prepared the Lake.
9. But seeing Most of the Lords of the Councill, had read my little printed Book, and found Nothing unchristian-like therein, but was very much liked and loved by some of them, also by many of the Burgers, therefore many of them accounted such proposall and desire of the Primate to be unequall, and that there was no just cause for such persecution of me, and spake against it and said, that THIS Religion was NOT New; but it was even the GROUND of the Ancient holy Fathers, wherein men might find many More such like bookes.
10. But some, especiall whom the Primate had instigated, have thought it good to summon me and compell me to come before a Councill, I should see whether the Emperor or Prince E∣lector would not be stirred up by the Priests, to suffer them to lay hold on me, as it is just so come to pass, when I came before the Councill, it was said thus to me; they ordered me to goe aside a little that they might not be troubled or disquieted with me.
11. Upon this I had framed my* 4.67 Answer in writing and would
Page 25
have delivered it up to them; But the Primate hindred, so that they should not receive any Answer from me in writing, for he feared HE must be constrained, to Answer for his Lyes.
12. And so it was not received by the Councill, but I was only warned to goe aside out of the way, or a while, to live with some people that would entertaine me; and so submit to them, that they might be at Quiet, but No command was laid upon me.
13. Upon this I answered, that seeing Men would not heare my Answer, that I might declare my Innocency, and could be ad∣mitted to no Defence against the Primate complaints & unjust Slanders; I must commit it to God; and see whether God would bring me somewhere to honest good people, and so shelter me at length that I might once get out of the Primates sight.
14. Which was acceptible to them, but they gave NO command that I should and must be gone, but only admonished me.
15. Whereupon I went home from the Councill, where, at the Councill Dore in the outward Porch, some spitefull scorners of the Primates retinue, and perhaps sent by him stood and desired me, and one of them a wicked Buffoone did anotomize me from the Crowne of the Head to the Soale of the Foot; concerning my Cloaths and Gifts, and did so vehemently Fall upon the Holy Spirit and Scorned IT, at last he also said. That at length the Holy Spirit would be as Common as Peeces of Leather at the Skinners.
16. Thus this took an End; and the Primate upon this caused this Pasquill or Libell to be printed; and now I must instantly stand under the Crosse of CHRIST; let God order it according to his Coun∣cell!
17. I entreate you Sir: that you would let me know your plea∣sure herein, and to signifie it to me; I suffer it all with patience but my Children will thereby be shamefully discredited, which yet must be, that the Measure may be full, and the punishment come.
18. I entreate you to salute, Herr, Doctor Koschwitzen and then also, Herr Abraham von Franckenberg, together with your Lady Mother, and all the deare children of Christ, that are with you; the Messen∣ger is in hast expecting the Letter else I would have written more.
19. And I commend you together to the Love of JESUS CHRIST, I will shortly see you againe; all our acquaintance salute you.
Dated as above.
Your, in the Love of Jesus Christ, willing servant Jacob Behme.
Page 26
The Nine and Fortieth Epistle To Herr C. B▪ Of the 5. of May, 1624.
Our Salvation is in Christ.
1. MY beloved Sir, Christianus, after, desiring all blessed welfare to your peace and Quiet Rest, I wish you the defence and protection of God, that he will Guard you with his loving Angells, and bring you to honest Christian Hearts: and preserve you with Health, and that he will perfect through you, his owne will.
2.* 4.68 I have now written to Herr Baltasar walter, at Leipzig- * 4.69 Mart, and sent him with it the Book of the Election of Grace or Pre∣destination of Forty-two sheetes, as also of Christs Testaments, of Six∣teen Sheets also, Twenty-seaven sheets upon Genesis, together with a Clavis of these writings of Six sheetes; and then Three Copies of my little printed Book.
3. Also, I have Answered to both the Herrs of† 4.70 Lubeck, who have written to me, and sent each of them a Copie of the little printed book, who are well known to Herr Walter.
4. Salute your Brother the Herr Conrector, and I take it with great thankfulness, that he will accept my Letters, and I will often send him somewhat.
5. Next friday, I take my Journey to* 4.71 Dresden, where I am called to the Prince Electors Councill, to speak with them as also with Herr H. Verwaltern of the Laberatory in† 4.72 Schlosse.
6. God afford his Grace and favour in it! so I commend you to the Love of Jesus Christ.
Dated as above.
Your, in the Love of Christ, willing servant, Jacob Behme.
Page 27
The Two and Fiftieth Epistle Of the 15. of May, 1624. To Herr T. K. Immanuel.
1. MY very loving and worthy Sir and Brother; in the Life and in the power of our LORD Jesus Christ; after wishing you the divine Love, and Patience under the* Crosse of Christ, I acquaint you, that I have safely received your letter, and therein discerne your Christian brotherly Love, as in∣deed it was well known to me before, and I first rejoyce at your, and My, health; I am also praised be God, in Good condition, together with Herr Melchior Bernt, gotten hither to Herr Benedict H. where all Christian love and friendship is afforded me, and they are like∣wise in good conversation one with another, also my coming, is Related by Herr H. almost to all the Prince Electors Councill, who most of them reade and Love my little printed Book: and acknow∣ledge it for a divine Gift, and make use of it dayly, and have of∣ten times desired their salutation and ready good will, to be re∣membred to me, by Herr H. who must daily come to them, seeing he practiseth there, and they themselves use him; and desire I would stay here, they will so contrive and order it, that they might come into some Conversation with me, as they have come to receive more of my writings: and are daily acquainted with them.
2. As Herr John von Loss, a very wise Person, Imperiall and Electorate Councellor, who is one of the Chiefe hath caused to be signified to me: that he hath so appointed his business, that he will goe at the End of the Holy dayes to his Schlosse or Castle, a mile from Dresden, where he will receive me and Herr H. and entertaine us some dayes, for good conference and discourse.
3. In like manner also, the Marshall of the Princes House and Chiefe Master of the Horse; have sent to me, and I hope these will, not only look upon me favourably, but also somewhat counte∣nance
Page 28
my writings: which I account to be all of it a divine provi∣dence, and shall hardly come home againe these 3. weekes, because I must stay here, and Expect how God will order it, also the fire of Satans Anger and Rage burneth at Home, but I have good friends in this place and heare nothing of such Tumults and Uproares.
4. But I exhort you in Love, that you would have patience, and expect what God will doe, I have no trouble or perplexity of minde, but am very cheerely at it, that I see the devill is enraged with anger against me, and doth so belye me; It is the Badg of CHRISTS ensigne, the Devills Lyes will well appeare, so that our Enemies must be ashamed; let us only pray, and* 4.73 leave the judgement to God; he doth so even to Christ and his Children, his Excuse which yet is false; will not availe; I wish, he did so Pray, as to bring the HOLY Spirit into the Desk or Pulpit, then he would not bring the Angry slanders of the Devill into it; It concerneth now the Whore in Babell, and therefore is the Devill so veryenraged, with Anger.
5. I desire you to treat with my wife, and tell her, that she should get Patience and give her self to Quiet, and not be so fearefull and dismayed, at it, as I perceive she is; for it is very well with me, and I am preserved with honour and Love, and I will not leave Her; if we have not leave to be in one place, God will leade us into another.
6. For I see now what the Lords way is, which he will take, she should not count it any disgrace, because we are persecuted for the divine Knowledge and Gift, for the sake of Christ our Redeemer; † 4.74 Christ bids us rejoyce, when it is so with us; for our Reward in Heaven is great; I intend God willing, to take care of Her and my Children, let her but give her self up to Patience and Peace, and let none put into her head, but that I will have a care of my self, she need not take care about me; Also there is a time coming, wherein it will not be dishonorable to her; None know how to speak any disgracefull thing of us; but only ONE wicked Man, who belyeth us, and per∣secuteth us for Christs sake, it is meer Joy to me, to suffer disgrace for Christs sake and his Gift, also our Enemy must help to promote our Good.
7. The Threats of our Enemy is only his evill malicious will, who knoweth but a Hooke may be put into his Nostrills? I will not let it be unknown to the Prince Electours Councell, and indeed they cleerly know it, and doe not speake well of it, in him, also I hope I shall come personally before the Illustrious Prince Electour himself, and doe hope all will be well, he neede not lift up him∣self so alost and rest on Lyes and upon Man, his Christian Heart will be manifest well enough, even his present friends may well speake against him.
Page 29
8. But since he supposeth it not to be right, that my book is gone forth under No Name; therefore I hope suddenly it will goe forth under a Name, he shall not hinder it, I have good opportunity: also there are this present Leipsig-Mart, come forth many such like bookes in print;* 4.75 he may hinder them, if he think he is the Man that can doe it, I hope ere a yeare be come about, HIS hinderance will be com∣monly called Babell.
9. Concerning my Son Jacob, that he is come home, I rejoyce, and desire that he would stay at Gerlitz till my coming, and not en∣tertaine dispute or make contention with any, because of scornefull people, that Gods Gifts be not scandalized, and least the Enemy might say, that we would take up the* 4.76 Sword, and raise uproares, but to have a little Patience, that our good things may be planted with pro∣fit and benefit to others, and we be known to be the children of CHRIST;
10. For the Age that is Coming, will not be in contention or disputing biting and devouring, but in Love and Pati∣ence, Peace and Joy in the knowledge of the divine Gift.
11. But seeing God hath together chosen us to be first fruits, therefore we should begin aright, and stand as a Rose a∣mong the Thornes; for our Native Country is in Heaven and not upon Earth, therefore let us labour for THAT.
12, I entreate you to Salute my wife, and all our good brethren in Christ, with our Love, especially, signifie my Condition to Herr Hans Roten that he may write it to his brother Horr Carel Endern and his brother Michael Endern, that it might come to the knowledg of Herr Hans Sigmund, how it is with me at present, and that you would write to them with the soonest, for I cannot now doe it be∣cause of hinderance; but Comfort my wife, that she may let goe her fruitless care, there is no danger about me, I am at present as well and better then at Gerlitz;* 4.77 but let her stay at home and be at Rest, and let Babell Burne, our Enemy standeth in the Fire, and therefore he is so angry and wrathfull! And I commend you to the Love of CHRIST.
Dated at Dresden,* 4.78 as above.
Your, in the Love of Christ, willing Servant, Jacob Behme.
Page 30
The Three and Fiftieth Epistle Of the 19. May, 1623. To Herr T. K.
V. H. I. L. I. C. I. V. Vnser. Heil. Im. Leben. Iesu. Christi. In. Vns. Our. Salvation. In the. Life. of Iesus. Christ. In. Vs.
1. MY very loving Sir, and Christian Brother; after my faithfull hearty memberlike, desire of the Continuall enduring Love-power, that our Soule may alwayes draw and drink of the Fountain of Christ.
2. If it goe well with you and yours, and our dear friends, as also with my wife, it will be acceptible to me, as for me, I thank God, who hath wonderfully conducted me according to his good pleasure, I gat in the Middle of the weeke, before Christs Ascention; together with Herr Melchior Bernten to Dresden in good health,* 4.79 to Herr Benedict H. where all Christian Love and friendship is afforded me; and I am well entertained, and there we have much good Converse.
3 And there are found also amongst the Prince Electors Councill, and indeed the Chiefest of them, very Christian Loving Gentlemen to whom this Theosophick Ground is very acceptible, and also do read and love my writings; for my printed Book is already come into the Hands of very Many Officers and other Learned Men, all which I ac∣count to be Good, and a Gift from God, and they Labour and Con∣trive, how such good writings as leade Men to the Imitation or * 4.80 following of Christ, may be published, and will help to promote them and Not suppress them; As in my Country is done out of Ha∣tred to the Person, which God pitty and help.
4. And the Herr Primates slanderous Libell is very wonderfully looked upon by the Counsell and Learned; and some suppose, that the Malicious Evill Spitefull Spirit hath dictated it to him, and he is despised by the Priests, who say, that he transgresses and goeth aside out of his Office. For Herr Henckel hath shewen it to the
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Counsel and to the Learned, who wonder at the Mans folly, that he dare vomit out his Evill affections in publick against a Christian Booke, at which many honest hearts are troubled, and ac∣count it a Judgement from God, that those who should teach others are so blinde, and that themselves doe resist the Truth.
5. Also some of the chiefest Councellours, have caused their Good Will to be made known to me, and signified that the soonest day they have opportunity, they will cause me to be invited to them, for a Christian converse and conference with me, which I look for, and expect what may be done then: But I hope that it will be all well, for I am assured of this, that they love my writings, as also the Superin∣tendent here readeth and loveth my printed little Book; and I hope al∣so they will here be licensed and Printed, as is signified to me, and then the strife hath an issue, and I expect dayly how God will effect it.
6. I entreat you Sir, to signifie to my wife, that she should not perplex her self by reason of me, but diligently pray, that God would order it for the best, and if she want any thing she knoweth very well where she may have it, she should only keep WITHIN, and a little submit her self; this stormy Tempest will soon passe over, and the Sun shine upon it: I shall upon the entreaty of Herr Henckelman, stay with him a Month longer yet, or what time it happens to be, here at Dresden, for I have promised it to him, seeing he giveth me my char∣ges and other Conveniences and is a very Christian Gentleman, who can do much for me, yet let it be according to Gods will; I relye upon no Man, but upon the living God, and am therewith very cheer∣ly and full of Comfort, who knoweth how the Current may runne?
7. My writings are here copied out, Time will open and discover all; I will write to you again with the first; so soon as I have oppor∣tunity, and inform you of my condition, I am yet but New and a stran∣ger, but I hope to be well acquainted and known, e're a Month passe. And thus I commend you to the Love of Jesus Christ!
Dated at Dresden as above.
Your, in the Love of Jesus Christ, willing Servant, Jacob Behme.
Page 32
The Four and Fiftieth Epistle To Herr T. K. Of the 23. May 1624.
Vnser. Heil. In. Christo. Iesu. In. Ʋns! Our. Salvation. in. Christ. Jesus. In. Us!
1. MY very Dear Sir and Christian Brother, after wishing you the divine Love, Patience and Hope of deliverance or Redempti∣on from the Driver or Persecutor, also the constant working in the power of Christ, that your little Pearle-Tree, may continually grow greater; if it go well with you it is exceeding Joy to me; as for me I praise God, for my Cause it hath hitherto stood in a good Condition here, God help it further!
2. At the Day of the Holy Penticost, past Noon, the Prince Electours Officers, viz: the THREE Lords from Swalbach & the Marshall of the House Those very Noble Potent Chief Rulers under the Prince Electour,* 4.81 viz. the Marshall of his house, the Master of his Horse and the Chief Cham∣berlain, and a Councellour, were invited to my Lodging, and came thither for my sake, to be acquainted with me, which also in Love, favour and kindnesse was accepted BY THEM, and they heard me very willingly, and my cause was acceptible to them, they also promised me favour and assistance in IT, and they desired and appointed to conferre further with me, which I dayly expect, also they read my* 4.82 printed Book with love and liking.
3. On Thursday in Pentecost, The Most Noble Potent Herr Joachim von Losse, Privy Councellour to His Imperial Majesty, and to the Prince Elector, and Officer of the Empire, at
Page 33
his Castle a Mile from* 4.83 Dresden, caused me and the Person where I lodged, Herr Henckelme, and a Doctor of Physick, to be fetched in his Coach, to be acquainted with Me; which Lord highly loved my Cause and Gifts, who also promised me favour and assistance, also signified, that he would see to assist my Per∣son with the Prince Elector, that I might get some liberty and rest, to propagate my Talent.
4. This Herr is a very Learned Man of High understanding, who also hath been very serviceable to our Countrey, as also to Silesia, since the Fall of* 4.84 Frederick, our King that was, and all high Matters passe through his Counsell, who desired I would be oftner with him, He will be my Patron and favourable Assistant, and I expect hourely, when the Illustrious Prince E∣lector will send for me, for which, by the forementioned Counsellours intimation and assistance, I am ready: also there are Many other Lords and Councellours, by whom my little book is loved and liked, as also by the Superintendent; And I hope it will all be well, after this suf∣fered hurt and persecution.
5. Now if the Primate of Gerlitz have any thing to complain against me, he might now here present it to the Prince Electours Coun∣sell, and let his venomous slanders before the honourable Counsill, my Lords at Gaerlitz be tryed and examined, here I would stand directly before him, and set his Lyes before his Face, which he hath in a veno∣mous spitefull Manner vomited out before the Church and in his Libell against me.
6. His Christian heart will be exceedingly praised if he did partly know, how men look upon his Libell for so very Christian and just a peece.
7. He doth the City of Gaerlitz disgrace and dishonour, therewith, in that they have such a Slanderer and Reproacher for their High-Priest, who causeth so infamous a Libell and defamation, to be printed against his Parish-Children; and cannot instruct them bet∣ter.
8. He hath got him an excellent Name therewith, so that Men account him an unchristian Man, he had need to have his Mouth al∣together stopped, and be bidden to have a care of his Office, and to imitate or follow Christ and the Apostles, unlesse He dare appear, if Men would sift and complain against his infamous words in the Libell, and in the Pulpit.
Page 34
9. I hope I should well find Richters or Judges who would Judge this* 4.85 Richter or Judge, and though I can have no hearing at Gaer∣litz, which yet seems wonderfull to these Lords, that a Burger will not receive and take notice of a Cause, yet I will not make any complaint •f my Lords at Gaerlitz, without further Cause.
10. But that it troubles the Primate that I have answered in wri∣ting, and thereupon will flye alost, and reproach much more; to that I say, if he have not enough of the written Answer, I will commit it to the Presse, as it seemeth Good to many Learned Persons so to do: I know also a good cause for it; It were good for him to keep his mouth from slandering, else he must see and hear, that which will not please him.
11. Though indeed I have no pleasure in THAT, for I perceive very well, that the Devill would fain Sully and defile my Talent with Contention and DISPUTATION; but I hope to stand under the Divine Protection and Defence, for I find now powerfully, how God leadeth and protecteth his Children, Therefore HE is to be praised.
12. And it will not so be, that the Primate, will be able to hunt all those people from Gaerlitz; who read my little Book, for then must he also come to Dresden, and into many other places, and hunt away the Prince Electours Councell and Priests; but let him have a care, that Gods Anger do not hunt him into the Hellish Fire {fire} it were good to Repent.
13. But if he will begin a Reformation, then will the Prince Electour also look into it, what Manner of Reformation he hath in his Coun∣try, you need not be afraid of him, it is but a Pharisaicall zeal without Ground.
14. I hope yet, the Time of the Great Reformation will suddenly come, wherein Men will be commanded to Reform, and to Teach Christ, and Not Shoemakers Pitch and Blacking, and to reproach the Children of Christ: Let him come but to Dresden into the Book-Sel∣lers Shops, he will see the New Reformation well enough; which looketh like my Ground as to what concerneth the Theologicall Ground: I hear in this place none reproach it, for it is read with Joy; as even the Superintendent himself, and Doctor Hŏe do now teach the New Birth and the Inward Man; The Primate of Gaerlitz may forbid it to them, And many OTHERS in† 4.86 Meissen, Saxony, Thuringen, and See-Stadten, write and teach thereof very right, if our Primate will hinder THAT, he had need of Time to prescribe a Councell, and take upon him the Reformation, else they will be ALL Enthusiasts, as he calleth, it.
Page 25
15. I still entreat you, to salute my Wife and Sonne, and let them read this, and exhort them to Patience and Prayer, I hope all will be well, they should have patience yet a little, who knoweth how the Current may run? This persecution may well* 4.87 serve for the best; I will within Three Weeks, if it may be, certainly come home, though perhaps I must make a Journey hither again, pray write to me in the mean time, how it goes further with you Sir: and exhort my Sonne Jacob to wait, and that he would go often to† 4.88 Hans Bergern and see what Elias Learneth; and that he behave himself with his † School∣master in Love, to whom he shall present my Salutation, and not conceal my purpose, that he may not look upon it, as if there were any CAƲSE, to flee away from the Primate, and for that cause † Elias might be abused and Evilly intreated by his Schoolmaster, therefore my present good condition should do well to be signified to him.
16. I pray you to salute these Herrs and Christian brethren, viz: Herr Hans R•hten, Herr Friederick Rhenisch, Herr Martin Mollern, and Herr* 4.89 Michael Kurtzen, together with all the Children of Christ, that are neer you, and discover my Condition to them, also that they should as Children of Christ,† 4.90 Labour in the Vineyard of Christ, and let Satan Roare; the Time of Redemption Cometh cleerly in ITS Season.
17. Also signifie my Salutation especially to the Doctors Wife, and mention to my Wife and Sonnes, that they be quiet and Patient, and not be zealous, that the Evill Enemy may not spie any little hole against us, and that at length every one may see, that we are pecsecuted for the sake of the knowledge of Christ and of his Truth; And thus I com∣mend you to the Meek Love of Jesus Christ!
Dated at* 4.91 Dresden, as above.
Your, In the Love of Christ, willing Servant, Jacob Behme.
Page 26
The One and Sixtieth Epistle To Herr C. B. without Date.
Emanuel!
1. MOst Honourable highly esteemed Sir: and faithfull friend, your Salvation and welfare is very acceptable to me, I would long agoe have visited you with a Letter, for I long also to un∣derstand your condition; seeing you give your self to the Study of WISDOME, which is more dear to me then the whole world, and do wish that I might once conferre with you therein as it is necessary: as I hope shortly to make a Journey towards you, then will I speak with you.
2. Hitherto I have been hindered by Gods permission, for I have been these Six Weeks, cast down into the Sicknesse of the Evill rai∣sed Soldiers, and scarce come to health again.
3. Also how it is with our Dr. Waltern, or where he is if you know any thing of him, signifie it to me; also how you go on in your study, whether the Grace Dore be more opened to you, to apprehend the high Divine Mystery, it would be very acceptable to me to know; for I hope if you order your life therein, and did bring the Practice into Exercise, that Dore would be opened to you, so that you would see, with right or true Magicall Eyes in Magiam Divinam into the Divine Magia.
4. For so soon as the Sprout of the New Man springeth, it hath its Seeing or Sight; for as the outward Man seeth this outward world, so also the New Man, seeth the divine world, wherein it dwelleth; for it is written;* 4.92 The Spirit of Man in the Spirit of Christ, searcheth all things, even the depths of the Deity.
5. And although, it lyeth not in the Searching and flying aloft, if men will search in Reason, but in a humble lowly submitting to enter into it, that the Soul desire Nothing but Gods Love; now when it attaineth THAT, then it suddenly bringeth the richly joyfull Spi∣rit of God, the Souls Image or the similitude of God, into the Heavenly Divine School of the Noble and precious knowledge; where then it
Page 27
is taught more then in the School of this world; for it studyeth in the School of the Divine Wisdome; The Holy Spirit is its School-master, also its knowing and understanding.
6. It is no knowing of God, that a CREATURE knoweth or feeleth God, but THAT knowledge only which is IN God: The Twig draweth into it, the Sap of the Tree; if a Man be not with his will-spirit entered into God, but into the outward Reason, then he is BLIND to God.
7. But if he with earnestnesse desireth God, then he becometh in his Desire impregnate with Gods Substance, and Gods Substance be∣cometh given to him for his OWN propriety, wherein the Spirit of God ruleth; and he becometh Gods Child, viz: a Twig on the Tree.
8. Seeing then I perceive from Herr Walter, that you lead your Life in† 4.93 The Fear of God; and he sheweth me also your writings, that you have a desire after the Divine Wisdome; and after the well-spring or fountain of Christ; therefore I am the more encouraged to write un∣to you, and to inform you of the WAY thereof, for it affordeth me meer Joy, when I discern any of Gods Children.
9. Just as one Twig of a Tree, enjoyeth it self with the other in the Tree, with an amiable or Lovely Essence, so also do the Chil∣dren of Christ; but if any thing in my writings should be misunder∣stood; do but signifie it to me, and it shall be brought into an easier understanding for you; or if it were too deep for your Mind or Thoughts, I would set it down more simply and Childlike, whereby the Pearl might be sought and found with delight; for it is not given in vain.
10. But seeing you are one of the First, whom God will favour with it; therefore I exhort you, in true Christian Love, that you would diligently seek the Noble Jewel; you will certainly attain it, for though it seems as if it would not; let not THAT discourage you, and do not shrink back, but stand still; If any will be a Soldier he must fight; where God is neerest of all he will not disco∣ver it, his Children must be proved or Tryed.
11. We must enter into Combate against the Old Adam, and kill him, if a New be to grow out of him; if the faire Crown or Garland be once set upon you; then it would afterwards need no more search∣ing after; you will have one that will search well enough; who will seek and find himselfe IN you; that you shall see God and the Kingdom of Heaven, according to that Glimps or discovery; This I would needs friendly intimate to you.
Page 28
12. A very Hard Time is coming, for that year, and the year fol∣lowing; will be years of great Tribulation, for the sicknesse and† 4.94 death of the Where is Coming, but she will not observe it, she saith still, I am a Virgin, her wounds are uncurable.
13. Dear friend Christianus, let us indeed open our Eyes aright, that we learn to know Her, and* 4.95 flye from her, else we may receive her plagues and Punishments; there is no je••ing, it will cost Body and Soul; The highest Good.
Thus I commend you to the Love of JESUS CHRIST. Jacob Behme.
† 4.96The Name of the LORD is a strong City; the Righteous, runneth unto it and is exalted.
The two and sixtieth Epistle C. B. without Date.
Immanuel.
1. DEar faithfull friend and brother in the Love of Christ, I wish con∣stantly in my desire, that you may continue stedfast in the way you have begun, that your hunger and thirst after Christs well-spring or fountain may constantly endure, for it is the assured* 4.97 drawing of the Father in the Spirit of Christ to him.
Page 29
2. The Earthly Adam is a Cover before it, that Christ in this Earth∣ly Tabernacle cannot be totally manifested, for Holy† 4.98 David, the Man of God, saith; They go away sewing in Tears, but they reap in Joy.
3. I exhort you very brotherly, that you be not discouraged, though the SUN of the rich Joyfullnesse do not shine in the Old Adam, it is Gods will it should be so; for with its richly Joyfull Glance or Lustrous Beams, it belongeth not to the Earthly Man; But it giveth it selfe many times to the Dead Mystery, which disap∣peared or faded in Adam, and at the Last Judge∣ment Day shall* 4.99 arise in Power, such a friendly Aspect Glimps or Countenance; for the Comfort of the poor Soul; and to the strengthning of the New Sprout: But here it must be gene∣rated or born in meer longing and anxious desire: The Sun oftentimes hideth it self; but so it seeketh only into the Root, that it may gene∣rate a Twig out of the Tree.
4. Wrestle cheerfully, the Crown or Garland is assuredly deposited in you, it will assuredly be set upon you; according to the Measure which pleaseth God; for according to what he will use any for in this world, according to that measure also he manifesteth himselfe in him in the outward Man: but the true Lilly-Twig or Branch; standeth not in the outward world; It is exceeding Joy to me, when I per∣ceive, that you long anxiously after the Lilly, and think you have it not; but I see much better then you, WHAT you have; which often delights me thus with my exhortation to awaken and stir it up; that the Tree may grow and become Great; for I would fain also NOW partake of its Fruits: for which things sake, I labour towards YOU and Many OTHERS, accordingly as I am driven.
5. I send you the* 4.100 Magick Globe, with the Explanation thereof, you will have therein a fine delightfull walke for recreation: but send me it back again as soon as you can, I will shortly send you somewhat else.
6. The Little† 4.101 Testaments, I cannot get at present; but am pro∣mised to have it copyed out.
7. I pray, if you see any acquaintance of* 4.102 Zolnig, send this inclo∣sed Letter to Herr M. W. if not, then leave it at his House, then it will come at him.
Page 30
8. I thank you also for sending the Corn: I will in Love, Pay you for it; I have justly received it, and perceive your diligence: If Herr M. W. would send me my Sack again, I should rest contented, but I perceive very well how his heart is, I have discovered to him the Babylonish WHORE: and still friendly write to him; to try if he will become seeing, and fall away from the vierg• of Antichrist, though it seemeth to me they are but Glistering Specious words, as they almost all of them do give.
9. For, I have in this Generation found very Few of them, where∣in there is true earnestnesse; but they have only* 4.103 received the History, with Joy; and suppose it sticketh in the know∣ledge, viz: in the Letter; they make ostentation therewith: yet I know some wherein there is sincere earnestnesse, where I have seen the Spirit in Power, God be praised!
10. Pray signifie my Salutation and willing Service in Love, to your Brother the Herr Conrector; to commend one another into the Love of Jesus Christ.
Your Loving Friend and Brother in CHRIST, Jacob Behme.
FINIS.
Page 31
J.B's hand writing, or Manuscript Epist: in High-dutch I.S's in English
I Have in Jacob Behme's own hand writing, a Let∣ter of his in the High-Dutch which was sent me by Michael L• Blon, Resident for the Queen of Sweden in Hol∣land, with the States there: of the 10/20 Aprill, 1650. the Letter of J. B's he received from Abraham von Frankenberg, who was then at Mr. Beyerlands in Amsterdam, to whom Jacob Behme wrote in his life time, and conversed much with him, he was a Learned Man, much acquainted with the Divine Mysteries of the Hoiy Scriptures and other the profoundest Literature; this I also translate into English, and here insert.
J. B. used to put on the Back of his Letters this Mark, as in the Letter I have, appears, viz:
OOO
Which signifieth the THREE Eternall Worlds one in another as ONE; or the THREE Principles; or the THREE Persons in the TRINITY; whose im∣presse is to be seen in All things whatso∣ever, both in THIS World and in ETERNITY.
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The Letter followeth thus in High-Dutch, in J. B.'s. own hand writing.
OOO
Licht Heil und Ewige Krafft auss dem Brunquel des Hertzens Iesu Christi sei unser erquickung.
Erenvester wolbenampter Herr euch seind meine willige dienste Iederzeitbevorn, ich fuge euch zu wissen Das ich in den verheischenen schrifften bin etwas verhindert worden, welche ich euch chicken wolt nach Zu schreiben, den Sie seind bey einem liebhaber derselben auch nach geshriben worden, weil aber H. Pa•tzer W. ••t wider zu Lande ankomen, hat er dieselben Ietz selber unter der feder, so euch aber I ge•ipte etwas darum Zu haben und nach •u schreiben, So sol euch etwas, so balde es muglich ist, gefolget werden und thue euch Gotlichen schutze Empfhelen.
Datum Gerlitz.
Jacob Behme.
Translated into English written in J. S's. own hand writing.
OOO
Light, Salvation, and Eternall Power out of the Fountain of the heart of Jesus Christ, be our Refreshing.
Honourable worthy Sir▪ let my willing service be alwayes presented to you I must acquaint you, that I have been somewhat hindered in the writings I promised you, which I was to send you to Copy out; for they have been by a lover of them now lately Copied out, but seeing H. Baltzer Walter, is come into this Country again, he hath them now himself in hand, under his Pen, but if you have a Mind to have any of them and to copy them out, as soon as is possible some of them shall be sent, so I commend you to the Divine Protection
Dated at Gerlitz
Jacob Behme.
That in High-Dutch was the hand writing of Jacob Behme; that in English of John Sparrow: Thus the very Character of All Manuscripts may be communicated and perpetuated.
This I have caused to be expressed from both the Hand-writings exactly in a Copper-plate by Edward C•cker and here printed off, annexed: Tuesday 3. December 16••.
John Sparrow.
Because I found after the printing of this Sheete 5. Epistles not Eng•i∣shed, I here insert them.
The Third Epistle. 24. of October, Anno. 1619. 1.
I present you my Salutation through and from God, wishing you the Light of the divine Kingdome of Joy in our Emanuel.
2. The Letter you sent me, together with my writings I have di∣rectly safe received of Zeigern, and as soon as I had sealed those writings up, I sent them to H. N. by N. N. who at that present was with me, I would needs send him this Letter, seeing it was already sealed, and supplied with my writings inclosed in it. But now I un∣derstand in my Minde, seeing it happens as it doth: that you have sent for them, that it may be a providence of God, therefore I send them to you herewith, pray consider them, there is a very Noble Jewel therein, which God hath bestowed since your departure; & I ac∣quaint you, that a very lovely Gate is sprung open, into which, if God will, as it highly appears he will, we will enter; concerning which yet I can say Nothing, for it is not belonging to my outward Man, but as all Vegatives or Plants of the Earth, rejoyce when the Sun ariseth, and shineth upon them with its power and vertue; so also my Soule in the faire Wonder-Blossom, wherein the Lord is so sweete and friendly, I hope I shall well refresh my self with it, which you will perceive in this last Part of this* 8.1 Booke, if God open the Gates to you in HIS Spirit.
3. I cannot write IT to you, for it is wonderfull, I hope God will open your Heart, that you also may tast and relish somewhat thereof: you desire to know, whether I had any converse with the Herr you know of, I must acquaint you, that I could not come to him, for I have had much to doe in another Country, where indeed with my outward Man, I was not at home, and am hitherto hindred with a Journey to Prague, for Seaven Dayes, and then what God will shall be done, al∣though at present a Deepe Gat• standeth open to me, and therein I shall doe what GOD will.
4. I send you the finishing of this Booke sealed, and if you have an opportunity, either send it to H. N. or to me againe with the o∣ther writings, for they were on the way to H. N. but when the Messen∣ger came from you, I held it fit to send all thus packed up, and I desire you to minde it highly and exactly, that there is† 8.2 another very excel∣lent high work, apprehended in the Spirit, and doe hope God will vouchsafe it to us, you may search further after it, in short time it shall be sent you. And so I commend you into the divine Kingdome of the Joy of the Eternall welspring or Fountaine.
Jacob Behme.
The One and Fiftieth Epistle. To Herr F. K. M. D. Of the 9. May, 1624.
V. H. I. L. I. C. I. V. Vnser. Heil. Im. Leben. Jesu. Christi. In. Vns. Our. Salvation. Is in. the Life. of Jesus. Christ. In. Vs.
1. MY very deare Sir and Christian faithfull friend, I Heartily wish you the divine Love, that the Sun of Righteousness in Soule and Spirit may Eternally shine to you! If it still goe well with you, it would be great Joy to me, to know; God be praysed I am at this time in Good bodily Health: But very much outwardly bespattered with Sathans Dirt, by the Pharisaicall spirit; for how very enraged Sathan is at me and my printed little Booke of Repentance, I can scarce write to you, and only from the Chiefe Pharisee and those that are like him; For they feare least their Authority and Respect might fall, if unlearned people should bring forth the highest Ground, and that people might require of them the Imitation or following of Christ and his Apostles, in Life and Doctrine, then must their Belly-God fall, and their Minde be somewhat more lowly, all which, doth not relish.
2. But it must come to passe, the Time is generated or Borne, and no Reproaching will help; for by their Reproaching they cause the People to ask after these Writings, and so they further them, more then hinder them, as is done among us at present; that almost every one would faine see them, and find the Great wonder, and what kinde of wilde Beast is therein, and when they come to reade them, they are amazed at their Blindness, and enter into themselves, and consider their Lives according to it, whereby very Many of them have Converted, and have entered into Repentance, and have desired friendship with me, and those which before had been reproachers are become afterwards the Sheepe of Christ. So very wonder∣fully the Lord manageth his way, and all things must serve for the Best to Gods children.
3. The Primate with us hath caused to be printed a vene∣mous lying Pamphlet or Libell of one Sheete in the Latine Tongue
in* 8.3 Verse, against me, wherein Men may wonderfully see his Spirit, and Sathan, with his Clawes; against which I have written an Answer, which together with the Libell you may get of Herr Michael Endern, he will willingly lend it you, there you will see wonderfull strange things, which I cannot here write to you.
4.* 8.4 I send you also by Zeigern, one of the Printed little Bookes, I hope you will well practise it, seeing without that you are a Lover of the true Ground, and I would faine have sent you somewhat of the writings, but I have lent them all abroad.
5. This day, being the 9. of May, I travaile to Dresden, whither I am Invited by the chiefe Eminent Persons of the Prince Electours Court, for a Conference with me, which also reade and Love my writings, God give Grace and Power for it, what may there come to pass, I shall informe you at another Time.
6. And I intreate you, to send the Packet to Herre Martin Mo∣sern by some safe opportunity, wherein you will doe him and me a service of Love, and yet you may have acquaintance with Herr Michael Endern if that were not done, where you may Get All my writings, for he hath them ALL, and is a very greate Practicer of them, and a loving Man, also very Secret and Faithfull, you will have a good friend of him; And I commend you to the Love of Our LORD JESUS CHRIST!
Dated as above.
Jacob Behme.
The Seaven and Fiftieth Epistle To N. N.
1. MY deare Sir, next the wishing you the Love of our LORD Jesus Christ, in Soule and Spirit; I acquaint you Sir, That in my Absence this Journey; when I was abroad at Herr Hans Sigismund•, the Pharisaicall Spirit, hath raged, as if he would storme Heaven and breake Hell in peeces, and all because of the* 8.5 printed
little Booke, which yet is very highly loved by many; And I doe not know yet how it will goe with me, in regard of this Pharisaicall Spirit, but I put my hope and whole Confidence, in the Love of Jesus Christ, and doe Praise God that I shall be made conformable to the Image of Jesus Christ, and suffer reproach for HIS sake, and will beare all with Patience under the* 8.6 Crosse of Christ; for Sathan stor∣meth or warreth against Christ, and Christ against Sathan, and it goeth as it did with Christ, one part say,† 8.7 He is an honest Good man, and a Prophet, the other say* 8.8 He hath a Devill. How it will conclude I shall let you know further Sir; and I commend you to the Love of Jesus Christ!
Sir
Your willing servant Jacob Behme.
The Nine and Fiftieth Epistle
V. H. I. L. I. C. I. V. Vnser. Heil. Im. Leben. Jesu. Christi. In. Vns. Our. Salvation. Is in. the Life. of Jesus. Christ. In. Vs.
1. MY Deare Sir Augustinus, and Christian Brother, I heartily, wish you the Divine Light, in the working Power of the Holy Ens in Christ! That you somewhat conceive my Gift and love it, and that you reade and write it out, is NOT of me; also I am NOT he that giveth you the understanding and apprehensi∣on, much less, the desire to doe so, but the Spirit of God IN your selfe, giveth it, for if that could be done by me, and if I had the a∣bility, I would have it so, that All men should understand it, within them; and that which is vouchsafed to me poore unworthy Man, out of or from the Divine Gift.
2. Also, it doth not become me to arrogate it as my proper owne, much less to receive the worlds Honour or Gifts for it, unless what
might be done by the •ich of their Overpluss for the sustenance of Life, and for the further expectation from this Talent; therefore I de∣sire nothing of any Body.
3. Your sincere and rightly Zealous and Christian Minde, is very well known to me: and I love it more then Money or Riches, or any worldly Goods: for I know that I can have a Christian bro∣ther, for an Eternall Enjoyment, and rejoyce my self in and with him, as one Member with and in another; concerning which I am well satisfied, and CHRIST will be my Rich abundant Wages, if I through my diligence have helped to work and gaine any thing in the vineyard of Christ: I would in no way desire any Temporall thing for it. And I commit you to the Love of JESUS CHRIST.
Jacob Behme.
The Sixtieth Epistle. To Herr A C.
Immanuel.
1. IN Christ much beloved Sir and friend, I wish you the divine Love and blessed Knowledg, and all Temporall welfare! In your well en∣tended Beginning, you might indeed be somewhat hindred, but a True right Christian Zealous Heart, hath its Schoole in it selfe, even in the midst of all Businesses and Employments; for if we follow or or Imitate Christ, and attaine Him in US, then he is in all Things our Beginning and End and our Teaching-Master or Schoolmaster, in us.
2. It may indeed be very advantagious to our Conversation, since you may have so faire an Opportunity, as to have these writings in your Hands, have a care doe not give it over or neglect it, but apply and fit your selfe therein, you will find a very excellent understanding in the Briefe Summary; which at present I have in Hand to write; of which Herr Tobias hath written out a part already.
3. For there is a very cleere Morning Sta••• arisen, at which, if your Spirit might be unlocked, you would Wonder what the most High at present favoureth us with all, wherein men may clearly see, how the Bright day breaks forth in the midst of the Dark Night, at which, many hungry. Hearts will rejoyce, & thereby be freed from ALL Errour.
4. I exhort you as my deare brother, that you would Lay-hold on this faire Season and opportunity and Not slip the Rose-Time, but Bud-forth, together with others, as Good Sprouts in our Faire Garden of Delight.
5. For, the End with Babell, is at Hand, and the Turba hath a Great Harvest to Reape, for it will be Earnest and severe, but let every One seeke or search himself in the Time of Grace, and goe forth out of the Fleshly Babell, that he be not also taken IN it, it is high Time, and is no fiction forged by Us, it is become highly ap∣prehended and known.
6. And I also exhort Herr Tobias brotherly, that he would make good use of his present fit and acceptible Time, and seeke or search himself, I intend it faithfully; thus I commend you to the meeke Love of Jesus Christ!
Yours in Love, Jacob Behme.
A Table of Behme's LXII. Epistles.
| Epistles, printed in High Dutch cont' verses. | In English printed Epistles cont' verses. |
| 1. To. C. v. E. | 1618. 18. January, | 12. | | 25. | Co: 28. |
| 2. To C. v. E. | 1619. 22. October. | 10. | | 27. | 18. |
| 3.— | 1619. 24. October. | 4. | Here printed. | 3. | 4. |
| 4.— | 1619. 15. November. | 48. | | 15. | 48. |
| 5. To C. v. E. | 1619. 1. December. | 10. | To Carel. von Endern. | 26. | 18. |
| 6. To C. v. E. | 1620. 4. May. | — | | 28. | 7. |
| 7. To Dr. B. W. | 1620. 7. June. | 11. | Before the supersensuall Life. | — | 14. |
| 8. To Paul Keym. | 1620. 14. August. | — | 1. of 1000. years Sabbath. | 4. | 118. |
| 9. To C. B. | 1620. 12. September. | — | Here printed. | 9. | 18. |
| 10. To H. A. v. S. | 1620. 12. September. | — | Concerning the Aurora. | 3. | 40. |
| 11. To Paul Keym. | 1620. 18. November. | — | 2. of 1000. years Sabbath. | 5. | 88. |
| 12. To H. C. L | 1621. 10. May. | 80. | To Casper Lindnern. | 2. | 80. |
| 13. To C. B. | 1612. 8 June. | — | Here printed. | 13. | 8. |
| 14. To C. B. | 1621. 21. June. | — | Here printed. | 14. | 4. |
| 15. To Dr. J. D. K. | 1621. 3. July. | — | | 22. | 20. |
| 16. To Her. C. D. S. | 1621. 3. July. | 14. | | 17. | 12. |
| 17.— | 1622. 3. July. | 11. | To Christianus Berntern, 2. Iuly | 18. | 13. |
| 18. To Her. S. v. S. | 1622. 3. July. | — | 1621. 3. Iuly. | 16. | 12. |
| 19. To Her. C. B. | 1622. 3. July. | — | Here printed. | 19. | 8. |
| 20. To H. J. D. K. | 1621. 3. July. | 15. | 2. Apol. to B. Tylcken. | — | 25. |
| 21. To H. C. B. | 1621. 8. July. | — | Here printed. | 21. | 4. |
| 22.— | 1621. 17. October. | 37. | | 9. | 38. |
| 23. To H. C. B. | 1621. 29. October. | — | Here printed. | 23. | 6. |
| 24. To H. v. S. | 1622. 1. January. | — | Question about A Statue. | 24. | 14. |
| 25. To C. v. E. | 1622. 22. February. | | | 29. | 5. |
| 26. To C. B. | 1622. 28. Aprill. | — | Here printed. | 26. | 13. |
| 27. To C. B. | 1622. 21. June. | — | Here printed. | 27. | 13. |
| 28 To Her. H. v. T. | 1622. 6. July. | — | To Chr. Steinberger Medicus. | 23. | 18. |
| 29. To F. K. M. D. | 1622. 17. July. | 10. | To Fred. Krausen. | 14. | 10. |
| 30. To N. N. | 1622. 1. November. | 27. | Of Killing of Antichrist in Us. | 10. | 27. |
| 31. To Herr. C. B. | 1622. 12. November. | — | Here printed. | 31. | 11. |
| 32. To Herr. N. N. | 1622. 10. December. | 24. | | 31. | 12. |
| 33. To Her. J. B. | 1622. 30. December. | — | To Iohn Budorfsky. | 12. | 10. |
| 34. To Her. C. B. | 1622. 13. December. | — | Here printed. | 34. | 7. |
|
35. To Hr. N. N. | 1623. 19. February. | 14. | 7. | 25. |
| 36. To Hr. F. K. | 1622. 19. February. | 16. | To Fred. Kraussen Dr. Med. | 21. | 17. |
| 37. To Hr. A. v. S. | 1623. 20. February. | 13. | Of Predestination. | 20. | 22. |
| 38. To Hr. G. F. v. F. M.D.Z.G. | 1623. 27. February. | — | Of Predestination. | 19. | 42. |
| 39. To Hr. N. N. | 1623. 30. March. | 21. | Of Temptation. | 13. | 21. |
| 40. To Hr. C. B. | 1623. 13. October. | — | Here printed. | 40. | 14. |
| 41. To Hr. N. N. | 1623.— | 76. | Of a true Christian. | 1. | 76. |
| 42. To Hr. G. F. & J. H. | 1623. 12. November. | 36. | Of the True and False Light. | 6. | 82. |
| 43. To Hr. C. B. | 1623. 27. December. | — | Here printed. | 43. | 8. |
| 44. To Hr. M. M. | 1624. 19. March. | — | To M. Mausern, of G. Rickter. | 33. | 27. |
| 45. To Hr. C. B. | 1624. 4. April. | — | Here printed. | 45. | 4. |
| 46. To Hr. J. S. | 1624. 6. April. | 19. | Here printed. | 46. | 19. |
| 47. To N. N. | 1624. 20. April. | — | | 32. | 17. |
| 48. To Hr. N. N. | 1624. 25. April. | 16. | | 11. | 30. |
| 49. To Hr. C. B. | 1624. 5. May. | — | Here printed. | 49. | 6. |
| 50. To Hr. N. N. | 1624. 8. May. | — | | 34. | 30. |
| 51. To Hr. F. K. M. D. | 1624. 9. May. | 6. | Here printed. | 51. | 6. |
| 52. To Hr. T. K. | 1624. 15. May. | 12. | Here printed. | 52. | 12. |
| 53. To Hr. T. K. | 1624. 19. May. | 7. | Here printed. | 53. | 7. |
| 54. To Hr. T. K. | 1624. 23. May | 17. | Here printed. | 54. | 17. |
| 55. To Hr. T. K. | 1624. 13 June. | 21. | To Dr. Tobias Kobern. | 35. | 23. |
| 56. To Hr. N. N. | —Without Date. | 33. | Upon A Drs. 4. Questions. | 8. | 32. |
| 57. To Hr. N. N. | —Without Date. | | Here printed. | 57. | 1. |
| 58. To Hr. N. N. | —Without Date. | 6. | | 30. | 5. |
| 59. To Hr. A. C. | —Without Date. | 3. | Aug: Coppen. Here printed. | 59. | 3. |
| 60. To Hr. A. C. | —Without Date. | 6. | Here printed. | 60. | 6. |
| 61. To Hr. A. C. | —Without Date. | — | Here printed. | 61. | 13. |
| 62. To Hr. A. C. | —Without Date. | — | Here printed. | 62. | 10. |
| J. B's Manusc. Ep. | OOO. Without Date. | — | Here printed. | — | — |
| Dr. C. Weisners Ep. | 1651. 21: February. | — | Next following. | — | 37. |
Page 43
Doctor C. Weisner's Epistle Narrative. Being, A True Relation from Herr C. Weisner Doctor Medicinae, a Dr. of Physick, out of which the Reader that loveth God, will have information concerning the Blessed Jacob Behme his Meeknesse which he exercised and held forth; 1. In his Conference with the forementioned Doctor. 2. With the Spirituall Lords or Clergy at Gerlitz.* 10.1 3. In his Examination at Dresden, in the Presence of the Illustrious Prince E∣lector, and eight of the chiefest Pro∣fessors of Di∣vinity, &c.
Now as concerning the Course of his Life,* 10.2 it shall be related at Large, in the Book of the Way to Christ, that was in the Presse at Amsterdam, in the Year 1658.
The Grace of God, together with brotherly Love and Faithfulnesse, I desire to commend to you.
1. TO give you information and Testimony concerning the Blessed Jacob Behme Teutonicus, I am in the presence of God willing and inclined to do it, but know little of him by my own Experience; yet so much as is known to me, I write to your Honour, with a hearty good will, and acknowledge my self obliged to do much more then that to serve you.
2. My acquaintance with the forementioned blessed Jacob Behme The Teutonick, was made about July in the year 1618. at* 10.3 Lauben in my Native Country, by a Handicrafts-man a Taylour (now deceased, called Libertus Schneller) who together with his Wives Brother a young Preacher; by name Solomon Schroter; which were
Page 44
both Jacob Behm's and my good friends, and were his beloved faith∣full schollars, who were very diligent in his writings, and had through Prayer attained an excellent knowledge therein from GOD.
3. But I was Praeceptor or Turour to a Noble Mans Children at Schweinitz called* 10.4 Balthazar Tilken, and there seeing he was an Opposer of Jacob Behme; I gat Adeo Contrariam Mentem contra illum, so opposite a minde against him, God forgive me in it, that I also became altogether averse to him, and yet supposed, that he stuck in or adhered to the Opinion of the† 10.5 Refor∣med, concerning Predestination, or the Election of God in his Sonne, &c.
4. Whereupon the two forementioned friends when at a time the blessed Man came to them at Lauben, intreated ME to come thi∣ther, and gave me occasion and opportunity of a Christian Conference with him, which, praysed be our Deare God for it, did so happily come about; that we become friends and laid aside all animosity and misunderstanding, and were united together in Christian brotherly Love.
5. Where the blessed Man did beare in very wonderfull great friendliness with my Academicall Turbulency and dis∣coursed in such Love, that for the sake of the feare of God, I could no longer resist or oppose him, but must yeeld and give up my self, to the Truth and Friendliness of the Spirit of JESUS CHRIST in him; since which time I never spake with him or saw him any More.
6. But De Actu Gerlicensi concerning the proceedings at Gerlitz, which I lately gave you an account of at N. I have received true information of it from the forementioned faithfull friends: thus; Antagonista Gerlicensis ille qui ibidem Pastor Gewesen, His Antagonist at Gerlitz, who was Pastour there, did lend to one of Jacob Behmes Nephewes, a young Baker who had lately married a Neece of Jacob Behmes. One* 10.6 Doller for his necessity, to buy wheate to bake white Bread at Christmas, for which he presented him in Thankfulness, a good big White-Loafe; and then soon after the Holy-dayes, he brought the Doller of Money and payd it him againe; in hope the Preacher would for the Interest of the Doller, accept of his former Present, in full satisfaction being he used it but for a Fortnight.
7. But the Preacher unsatisfied, pronounced against him
Page 45
Gods Anger and terrible Curse, and so vehemently terrifyed the young Baker therewith, that he fell into very deepe perplexity Melancholy and despaire of his Salvation, in that he had enraged the Priest, and had such a curse or Anathema from him; so that for the space of several dayes he spake to No Body; nor would say what hurt him, but went up and down sighing and speaking to himself with Great perplexity; till at last upon the hearty entreaty and de∣sire of his, WIFE her uncle Jacob Behme took the matter upon him: and so friendly discoursed with the perplexed young Man, till he found what lay upon him, and after he perceived it, he comforted him and spake peace to him.
8. And without discouragement he chearfully went to the enra∣ged Preacher, and courteously entreated him, no longer to be an gry with the young Man, but that he would be favourable to the young Man, he would himself, for the young Mans sake, satisfie him, the enraged Preacher; what he desired further for the Interest of the Doller he lent him, and would willingly bring it to him, if he did but know how much the Primate desired: yet thought that the poore young Man, according to his ability, had paid enough for it, yet if he pleased to have any more, he would supply what he was wanting in it.
9. Whereupon the Preacher with impatience brake forth; saying what had that Rascall (J. B.) to doe with him, to disquiet Molest and disturb him? What was that to him? he should meddle with his own business and be gone.
10. But he continued his importunity, and entreated his favour promising to make satisfaction, and give him content: But the Primate, ashamed of his injustice and wrong, would not acknowledg it, Nor say, what he desired, but still continually bad this supplicant or interposer to get him gone, and shewed him the outward Dore out of which he was to get him gone.
11. But the Primate sat upon his chaire and had his Slippers on, and when the Honest interposer humbly and meekly sighing to God, very lovingly, for his unsuccessfull business went away; as he was going out of the Dore, gave the Angry Primate a Christian valediction, saying, GOD preserve your worship, the Primate was angry at it, and because off his blessing him was much worse then before; and took of his Slipper, and threw it out at the honest Man, saying, what have you to
Page 46
doe, thou wicked Rogue, to bid me or wish me a good Night? what care I for thy Blessing? &c.
12. But the Deare Man calmely took up the Slipper and car∣ried it and laid it at his Feete againe, and said: Sir! be not angry I doe you no wrong, I commend you to God: So at this time he departed from him.
13. Till on Sunday following the Preacher in the Pulpit, vehemently inveyed against the blessed Deare Man of God, and thundred abominably and horribly against him by Name parti∣cularly threatning the destruction of the whole City; exclaiming a∣gainst him for a maker of uproares a seditious vaine fellow, and a Heretick.
14. And admonished them the Magistrate in the presence of the Congregation, to be avenged against such Tumultuous opposers of the Holy Offi•e or Function of Preaching, who disturbed the Preacher, and molested him in his own House: and writes Hereticall Bookes, least God be angry with them, and in his Anger, cause the City to sink and be swallowed up; as was done at the Insurrection of Corah Dathan and Abiram, who with∣stood Moses, and they and theirs with them must be swallowed up into the Earth and goe into the Abysse of Hell.
15. Upon which the Innocent, and falsly accused Man, who fate just at a Pillar right over against the Preaching Pulpit; where he had his Seate, and heard it all with patience himself; held his peace, till all the People were gone out of the Church, he staying all that while in his Seate; till the Preacher with his Chaplain or fellow Officer, went out of the Vestrey home through the Church.
16. Then he followed them; and without in the Church-yard spake to the Preacher friendly and Courteously and asked him, what hurt he had done him; he could not conceive with himself, that he had given him one Evill word, prayed him in the presence of this worshipfull Chaplaine who was there and went along with him; to put him in Minde of his fault, and Expresse it particularly, that be might renounce it and repent, which he
Page 47
would faine doe, if he did but know wherein he bad transgressed.
17. Whereupon the Preacher would answer nothing but looked upon him as if he would kill him with his Lookes; and in a rage and Fury burst out beginning to Curse and wrong him horribly saying: Get the out from me Satan, tumble them into the Abysse of Hell with thy disturbance; canst thou not let me alone? must thou here raile at me and molest me? doest thou not see that I am a Spirituall Clergyman? pointing at his habit or Black Priests Gowne, and goe on in my Office.
18. But the troubled and highly wronged Man, gave him this Answer Yes worshipfull Sir, I see well that you are a spirituall, or Clergy man, and have heard at∣tentively in the Church; and have seen that you have stood there in your Office, and doe justly esteem you without all further contra∣diction, for a spirituall or Clergy-man; and I come therefore, and entreate you, AS a spiri∣tuall or Clergy-man; that you will tell me, what hurt I have done you.
19. And turning himself to the Other spirituall or Clergy-Man the Chaplain, entreated him saying worshipfull deare Sir, help me I pray upon my earnest intreaty to the Preacher, that he would tell me in your pre∣sence, what I have spoken or done against him; for which he was so vehement against me in the Pulpit, and hath spoke to the Magistrate to aveng it.
20. Upon which, the Preacher was st•ll more enraged; that he would needs have sent that servant he had behind him, for a Serjeant or City Officer or Bayly, to Take him away and put him in Prison which the Chaplain spake against, and prevented it,
Page 48
so that it was not done; and excused the Man, and bid him goe home to his House.
21. The Munday Morning following, when the Magi∣strates were met at the Councill house; and sent for the false-ac∣cused before them; they examined him, perceived no Evill in him, they sound no anger or dislike neither in words or deeds or behaviour, to proceed from him; nor did they observe any thing that was blameable; they asked him what hurt he had done to the Preacher? He answered, he knew not, neither could he know from the Preacher himself; and therefore intreated most sub∣missively and earnestly; that they in their wisdomes would send for the Complainant or Preacher, and cause him to say what he had done to him!
22. Upon which the whole Councill Concluded, that it was just, that the Preacher should be friendly entreated to come to them, and required him particularly to signifie the Gravamina or Grevances, and thereupon sent Two Men of the Councill, Hono∣rably to the Preacher, and intreate him to come to them to the Councell-house, or particularly to relate those Grievances to the Members sent to HIM.
23. Whereupon he was enraged, and sent them word▪ what had he to doe with their Judgement-house or Councill-house; what he hath to say; that he shall speake in the place of God: from the Pulpit, there is his Councill-Throne and Seate of his Profession; what he hath there said; they should follow that, and ba∣nish the vaine, wicked, reprobate Heretick from the City, that he may no more oppose the Holy office of Preaching; and bring the punishment of Corah Dathan and Abiram upon the whole City.
24. Accordingly the Lords consulted, and could not finde
Page 49
how they should justly help the Master; scaring the vehemency of their, Preacher in his Pulpit; and concluded to banish the Innocent Jacob Behme out of the City, in which con∣clusion some Men of the Councill would NOT consent, but rose and went their way, but the Rest execute, and by the Executi∣oners or City officers, cause the uncondemned faithfull Citizen, to be instantly banished out of the Gates.
25. Which the patient blessed Man disliked NOT; but answered, in the Name of God, my Lords, I will doe as you command and depart the City, but may I not goe to my house first, and take mine along with me, or at least tell them my necessity? but they forbad it and denyed him, saying they could not alter the Sentence, which the whole Councill had concluded, in which he instantly was to be led from the Councill-house out of the City, with derision and scorne; then he said: Deare Sirs, let it be done seeing it cannot be otherwise; I am contented; so he was banished and gone away all Night-long.
26. But the Morning following, when the Councill were met together againe, and had reconciled their disagreement, they made another conclusion, to hunt after the persecuted Innocent Man, and sent up and downe about the Country to seeke him, and at length found him, and brought him solemnely with honour into the City againe, which was a wonder from God, in the Midst of those Acts and Decrees of the Devill.
27. Thus much is what I am certainly informed, that it was so done.
28. Concerning the Acts or proceedings at Dresden.* 10.7 I know also and can certainly affirme, authoritate alio∣rum, side Dignorum, & exceptione majorum; upon the authority of others worthy of beleefe, and without exceptions; that the Blessed Man of God as a Hinde hunted out and In, was Cited to Dresden:
29. And was examined in the Pre∣sence
Page 50
of the Illustrious Prince Elector, by the Chief Doctors assembled together, whose names were as followeth; Dr. Hoe, Dr. Meis∣ner, Dr. Baldwine, Dr. Gerrard, Dr. Leisern, and one Doctor more, which I cannot name at present, and Two Professors of the Ma∣thematicks, and appointed to discourse a∣bout his writings; also in severall wayes, set upon him with all sorts of Theologicall Philosophicall and Mathematicall Questions, but not overcome by any of them nor con∣founded by any of them, but so readily aptly and distinctly answered those Examiners, that they said not one ill word to him.
30. But the Illustrious Prince Electour HIGHLY Wondred at it, and desired to know the Conclusion of their Censure; but they the Doctors and Examinours, excused them∣selves and intreated the Illustrious Prince Electour, that he would have Patience; til the Spirit of the Man should be more plain¦ly Cleered to them; they could not under∣stand him; but hoped he would hereafter more cleerely be apprehended by them, and then they might and would give their Judg∣ment but as yet they could not.
31, And THEN the deepely Grounded divinely blessed Man asked them againe severall Questions, which they were to Answer him in, with plaine distinction, not unwillingly, nor very Earnestly, but Occasionally as it were, because they had heard such Greate Things from such a simple Lay Man, beyond THEIR Apprehension and not able to understand him; but did not upbraid him, but unexpectedly the simple Man
held forth to the Theologists, the Truth plainly, and distinguished from the Fictions, he Honoured them with Great Respect, and discoursed friendly with them, touched all their Errors, and shewed them as with a Finger the Originalls of them.
32. But to the Astrologers he said Ex∣presly, Deare Sirs, observe, thus farre is the skill of your Mathematicks right, exact, and grounded upon the Mysteries of Nature; but whatsoever is beyond that, viz. this and this, are Heathenish additions, the Ignorance and blindness of the Heathens, which we Christi∣ans are not to follow.
33. So they left him quietly, and dis∣missed him in peace; also the Illustrious Prince Electour, had greate satisfaction in his Answers; He required him to come to him apart by HIMSELF, and spake with him about all Sorts of secret Mysteries, and admitted him to him in all Favour, and Gave him liberty to goe to his house at Gerlitz.
34. I cannot remember that I have heard certainly more thereof, but I lately heard the Two Drs, Dr. Meisner, and Dr. Gerhard,* 10.8 at Wittenberg, speak of Jacob Behme, that they wondered at the Conti∣nuation or Connexion & Harmony or agreement of the writings of THAT Man.
35. Dr. Gerhard said, Indeed I would not for the whole world condemne the Man; the
Other Dr. Meisner answered him, nor I neither, my brother, who knoweth what may lye hidden within it, how can we censure what we have not apprehended, nor can apprehend; whether it be right, black or white, God convert the Man if he be in an Errour; and keepe us to his divine Truth, and give us to understand that further and better, also a Minde and ap∣prehension to express it, and propagate it to our ability; besides this somewhat was said, but I went away.
36, Another time, I heard the Reverend Dr. Meisner at Wittenberg say; when Jacob Behme was spoken of; and being asked what Judge∣ment he would give of him, he answered, he desired neither to Judge, nor procure that the Man should be condemned or suppressed, or si∣lenced, he is a Man indued with wonderfull high Gifts of the Spirit, which a Man can yet neither condemne nor approve.
37. God keep us all in Grace, by his blessed knowledg of JESUS CHRIST in US!
The 21. February, A. 1651.
C. W. M. D. Charles Weisner Medicinae Doctor.
A CATALOGUE of ALL The Books that are known to be Extant written BY JACOB BEHME And now Printed in English this: ☽: 3: ♓: 1661-2
(1) Anno. 1612. THe First Book, called the Aurora; Dated Tuesday in Pentecost week: the 37. yeare of his Age: 2. June. printed in a Large Letter in 40. with some Notes edded with his own hand, in 1620.
2. 1619. The Second Book. Of the Three Principles of the One only Divine Sub∣stance, with an Appendix to it, concerning the Threefold Life of Man. in a small letter in 4o.
3. 1620. The Third Book. Of the Threesold Life of Man. in the same Letter. in 4o.
4. 1620. The Fourth Book. Being an Answer to Forty Questions concerning the Soule, in a Letter to Doctor Balthazar Walter; in the Midst of the Answer to The First Question; is the Scheame, or Figure of the Philosophick Globe; or Turned Eye, the Eye of the wonders of Eternity; or Looking Glasse of Wisdom; with an Ex∣position of it, and of the Three-Worlds signified by it: with an Appendi••, concerning the Soule, The Image of the Soule, and the Turbao• Destroyeresse of the Image. in 4o.
5. 1620. The Fift Book Dated in May: divided into Three Parts.
- The First, of the Incarnation of Jesus Christ.
- The Second: Of the Suffering, Dying, Death, and Resurrection, of Christ.
- The Third: of the Tree of Faith. in 4o.
...
6. 1620. The Sixt Book. The Grea• Six Points. Also a Small Book. of other Six Points. in 4o.
7. 1620. A little Book. Dated the 8. May. Of the Heavenly and Earthly My∣stery. printed with the 6, Points. in 4o.
8. 1620. A Little Book of the Last Times. To P. K. being Two Epistles: the First To Paulus Keym, Dated 14. August, and the Second To Paulus Keym, Dated 23. November. Both concerning the 1000. yeares Sabbath, and of the End of the World. Being the 4th. and 5th. of the 35. Epistles. printed formerly in 4o.
9. 1621. A Book. De Signatura Rerum: Of the Signatures or Marks of the shapes and figures of all things. in 4o.
10. 1621. A Little Book. Dated in March. of Consolation, to the Tempted Soule, Concerning the Power Complexions. here printed in 4o.
11. 1621. The First Apologie, in Answer to Balthazar Tylcken, concerning the Aurora. Also,
- The Second Apologie Dated 3. July, To Balthazar Tylcken. The First Part concerning Predestination.
- The Second Part concerning the Person of Christ, and the Virgin Mary, written of, in the Book of the Incarnation, here printed in 4o.
12. 1621. A Little Booke. Of Considerations, upon Esaias Stiesels Book. Dated 8. April. Concerning the Threesold State of Man, and the New Birth, of the Last Sion or New Jerusalem, &c. here printed in 4o.
13. 1622. A Large Book of the Errours of the Sects of Ezekiel Meths, or an Apo∣logie to Esaias Stiesel. concerning Perfection; Dated 6. April. here printed in. 4o.
14. 1622. A Little Book of True Repentance.
15. 1622. A Little Book of True Resignation.
16. 1622. A Little Book of Regeneration. Dated. 24. June. These Three make the Booke called The Way to Christ. Printed in 12o.
17. 1623. A Book of Predestination, and the Election of God: Dated 8. February. At the End of it is the following Treatise. in 4o.
18. 1623. A Short Compendium of Repentance, Dated 9. February. in 4. and with the way to Christ. in 12o.
...
19. 1623. Mysterium Magnum. The Great Mystery. Dated 11. September. being an Exposition of the whole Book of Gene••s. Printed in a large Letter in Fo.
20. 1623. A Table of the Divine Manifestation or an Exposition of the Threefold World. in a Letter of The True and False Light to G. F. and J. H. with an Exposition of it. Dated 11. November. Printed at the End of the Mysterium. in Fo. and at the End of the Predestination. in 4o. and Part of it belongeth to the Epistle Of the True and False Light. printed with the 6. Points. in 4o.
21. 1624. A Little Booke of the Supersensual Life. Printed at the End of the Way to Christ. in 12o.
(22) 1624. A Little Book of Divine Contemplation or Vision. to the 6. verse of the 4. Chapter and no further: Printed with the 6. Points. in 4o.
23. 1624. A Book. Dated 7 May. Of the Two Testaments of Christ; viz. The: First Of Baptisme. The: Second Of the Supper of the Lord. these 2. in 4o.
24. 1624. A Little Dialogue between the Enlightned and the Unenlightened Soule. in 8o. formerly printed with The Two Theosophick Epistles. and with the Way to Christ. in 12o.
25. 1624. An Apologie for the Book of True Repentance. Dated 10. April. di∣rected against a Pasquil published in Latine verse, by the Primate of Ger∣litz, Gregory Rickter. here printed. in 4o.
(26) 1624. A Book of 177. •heosophick Questions, with Answers to 13. of them, printed with the 6. Points. in 4o.
27. 1624. An Epitome of the Mysterium Magnum, called an Abstract thereof. Printed at the End of that Book. in Fo.
(28) 1624. A Prayer Book for Every Day of the weeke. called also the Holy weeke. With Prayers as far as the End of Tuesday, printed with the 6. Points. in 4o.
29. 1624. A Table of the Three Principles or a Key of his writings. Dated in February, to J. S. V. S. and A. v. S. Printed at the End of the Mysteri∣um. In Fo. with an Exposition of it. also with the 6. Points in 4o.
...
30. 1624. A Book of the Last Judgment. said to be Consumed, at the Burning of Great Gloga• in Silesia, in Germany; and no other Copie of it yet found.
31. 1624. The Clavis or Key of his Writings, written in March and April. printed at the End of the Forty Questions. in 4o
Also LXII. Theosophick Epistles written at several tim•s from 1619. to 1624. 35. of them were printed formerly. in 4o. 2. whereof viz.
- The First, concerning what a True Christian is, and
- The Second or 10th. of the Killing of Antichrist in our selves. printed in 8o. The 6th. being the Epistle of the True and False Light, is printed with the 6. Points, in 4o. The 7th. of the 62. is the Preface to the Supersen∣sual Life. in 120. the 20th of the 62. is the Preface to the 2. Apologie to Tylcken: and 25. more are here printed in 4o.
The Books which the Authour finished not are thus marked ()
The Life of Jacob Behme. written by Mr. Durant Hotham. is printed at the End of the Mysterium Magnum. in Fo,
All are to be Sold, and most of them, by Giles Calvert, at the Black-Spread-Eagle, at the West-End of St. Paules, London.
The Errata belonging to the Apologies.
Englishers Preface. p. 2. l. 17. r. selfe same. p. 8. l. 9. r. women.
1. Apologie to Tylcken. Errata.
1. Title. l. 3. f. the r. this. v: 17. l. 4. & 5. dele they may v: 27. l. 1. r. Faith, before; v. 31. l. 3. r. others; v: 46. l. 2. r. conceived in. v. 60. l. 2. dele the †. v: 72. l. 2. Marg: r. 1. Tim. v: 85. l. 5. r. only shineth, v: 125. l. 3. f. himself, r. his owne. v: 208. l. 2. r. or Angelicall. v: 210. l. 7. f. shalt. r. wilt. v: 221. l. 3. r, the * and in the Margin * 1 Cor. v: 233. f. hath, r. had. v: 235. l. 4. * r. in the Margin * Gen: 3. 15. v: 240. l. 2. Margin f. 10. r. 18 v. 242. * Margin f. 3. 11. r. 311. v: 256. l. 3. r. a Lord. v. 270. l. 5. r. and is become. v: 286. l. 2. r. was the Soule. v. 322. l. 3. f. Fire. r. Fires. v. 252. l. 4. f. Make. 4. made. v. 378. l. 6. r. the † Margin † or sternest: v: 389. f. came r. come. v: 412. l. 4. f. as •. also. v: 443, l. 5. Marg: f. 16. r. 10. v: 450. r. And he the. v: 463. l. 4. r. wouldst. v: 508. l. 3. r. souls of Men. v: 540. l. 2. r. it upon. v: 547. l. 5. dele it. v: 561. l. 3 r. the Divine: 575. l. 3. 4. Ruler in, or manifester of, v. 629. f. 69. r. 629.
2. Apologie to Tylcken. Predestination and Incarnation.
V. 6. l. 3. r. of the. v: 108. l. 7. f. became r. become. v: 128. r: this. world-Kingdome. v: 155. l. 2. Margin f. 54 r. 5. 4. v: 167. l. 5. r. soone come. l. 6. f. * r. † v: 169. l. 7. r. God then. v: 178. l. 6. r. * Margin f. vix, r. viz. v. 198. l. 2. f. to r. with. v. 208. l. 3, f. Man, r. Men, v: 210. l. 1. r. any Mans. v: 262. l. 1. Margin, r. 17, 18. v. 279. l. 5. r. † what. v: 325. l. 2. r. we contend. p. 59. l. 2. r. of Three-page 69. l. 1. for concerning. r. conteining. for 15. r. 25.
The Fower Complexions.
V: 8. l. 8. r. and Carelesse. v: 9. l. 2. r. Dark, sad, v: 11. l. 7. r. for their. v: 14. l. 3. r. Complexions. v: 24. l. 1. r. or quality. v: 25. l. 3. r. or Constitution. v: 32. l. 3. Marg. f. * r. † v: 34. l. 4. r. though * Margin he perish in his Anger. v: 35. l. 2. f. Bond, r Band. v: 40. l. 3. r. it is fubtile and will. v: 46. l. 1. f. drawne into, r. aware of. v. 49. l. 4. and some what. v: 57. l. 2. r. in that. v: 59. l. 5. f. heare, r. here. v: 63. l. 8. * Margin Schwartz Hans. v: 72. l. 3. r. Devill. v: 74. l. 3. f. at r. of. v: 81. l. 7. r. fellow servants. v: 84. l. 4. f. Lost r. Last. v: 85. l. 1. f. * r. † v: 86. l. 3. r. of it v: 114. l. 8. r. of David, * If the † Morning. v: 146. l. 2. f. is r. it. v: 149. l. 10. f. for, r. far. v: 150. l. 6, and 7. f. seated r. feared. v: 164. l. 6. f. any, r. an.
Considerations upon Esaiah Stiefel.
V. 15. l. 5. r. or Power. v: 21. l. 18 r. untill in. v: 25. l. 5. Marg: r. * v: 27. l. 1. r: shewed. l. 2. First according. v: 27. l. 16 f. beometh r. becometh v: 28. l. 2 f, also, r. of it therein where, by the. v: 49. l. 4. r. impregnate v: 56. l. 4. f. all. r. also. v: 59. l. 1. r. into the. v: 62. l. 6 Marg. Psal. 143, 2. v. 72. l. 7. r. will, teare v. 80. r. Mensch, from the Limus. v: 91. l. 3. Marg. † 2 Kings. v: 127. l. 7. f. borne, r. boarn. v: 134. l. 3. r. world; the Paradise must.
Apologie concerning Perfection.
1. Text, verse, E. S. v: 2. l. 13. f. or, r. and. I. B. v: 1. l. 2. r. To∣tall. v: 4. l. 3. Marg. r. * Isa: l. 4. Marg: r. † Deut v. 8 l. 2. f come. r came. v; 9. l. 2 f. Men, r. Man. l. 5. r † without. v: 21 l 2. Marg r. 32, 33. v: 24. l. 1. r. he is the. v. 62. l. 3. r. be as an. v: 69 l. 1 r. which,
it also, r. world, in l. 3. r. one to. v. 95. l. 6. f. of r. in, v: 11• l. 3. r. conclusion. concerning the Creation of Man. v: 135. l. 1. r. He said. v: 162. l. 2 r. Job's words. v: 164. l, 2. Marg. f. 11. r. 1 v: 179. l. 1. r. Therefore say 1, v. 181. l 3. r God, whereas: v: 182 l. 6. Marg. f. 13 r. 3 v, 187. l 2, f. out. r. not. l 3 r. Humanity after the Fall: From. v. 190. • 3. r. Mother of the Love. v: 203. l. 1. r. voyce, as. v. 221. l. 3. r. that he was. v: 228. l 5. f. resteth r. rested. v: 229 l. 4. and 6. and 7. r. awaked, v: 244. l. 2 r. Man, not. v. 245. l 4. f. my. r. the.
II. Text, E. S. v: 3 l. 7 Marg. f. 17. r. 27. v: 4 l. 6 f. come, r. came. I B v, 3 l 10. r. had * Marg * see verse. 221. v: 28. l. 4. r. himself, out of and in this, v: 46 Marg f. 28. r 38.
III. Text. E. S v: 30. l 3. f. true, r. truly. I. B. v: 4 l 2. and 3. r. one, contrary. v: 12. l 2, and 3. r. Man, especially, being. v: 19. l. 1. Marg f 3 r. 5. v 26 l 2 r. in-standing, l. 4 r. in-generating. v: 34. l. 2. r. * the. and Marg. * Isai. 54. 5. v. 40. l. 1. f. Free-will. r. Fire-will. v: •2. l. 2. r. †. inward Man.
IV. Text. 1. Point. E. S. IV. l. 3. r. Eternity or Unity. verse 9 l. 1 r People; that v. 10. Marg. f. 18. r. 8. v; 78. l 5. r. own will: In Christ.
II. Point. I B. v: 63. l. 4. r. the vanity. v. 74. l 2, r when I look. v. 78 l. 4. r. substantiality, in, v: 102. l. 1. r. Mother or Finder, v: 108. 24. f * r. † and in the Marg f. * r. † v: 109 l. 1. Marg. r. 5. Math. 12 4. v: 122 l 10. r seede, whence sinne.
III Point. v: 22. l. 2. f. became, r. become, v: 30. l. 2. f. them, r. the. v: 37. l. 2. r. Marg. † Mensch. v: 45 l 1. Marg. r: 26. 4. v. 68. l 6. r. Serpent, and the Devill, v: 72 l 2 r. 10 a BEAST. v. 74. l. 3. childish, That they.
IV. Point. E S. v. 15 l. 8 r. * Sulamith: Canticles. v. 25. l. 9. r. A. * Marg. Marriage. I B. v: 29. l. 2. r. would dwell. v: 45. l 1. r. world, viz. to the. v 60. l. 1. f. This, r. Thus. v: 68. l. 2. † HEE Marg † E. S v: 72. l. 4 r. Transmutation or alteration of. v: 78. l 5. r. to the Flesh. v: 97 l 1. f. conceuning, r. concer∣ning, v. 122 l. 7. put out shall. v. 125 l. 1. f. * r. † v: 143. l 1. r. Sweat Bloudy.
I. V. Apologie, to Gregory Rickter.
v: 8. l. 3. r. Spirit, v. 11 l. 6 r. Say. †. Marg. † Math. 25. 40. v. 57. l. 7 r. for∣sook. v 75. l 2. r and the Life. v 78 l 1 & 2 f. Man, r. Men. v 94 l. 3 r. with Christ. l. 4. r. killed them. v 101. l. 2 f Separation, r. Seduction, v. 116 l. 1. for This, r. Thus, l. 4 r beleeve, then I do, v. 120. l 1. r. not a Meere. v. 131. l. 2. r. him up. v. 138. l. 2 r. his heart v. 140 l. 11. f. began r. begun. v. 156 l 2 r. whence he is. v. 178 l 5. r had long agoe torne. v. 179. l 3. f. so, r. to, v. 181 l. 6. r. But he rejoyceth. v. 194. l. 1 r a Man. v. 199. l. 5. r. honest: here.
L. L
Preface to the Epistles, at the End. for M. H. r. M. B.
The Epistles 14 l: 1, f. 1661. 1. r. 1621. Ep v. 7 l. 10 Marg f, 18 r 28. Ep. 40. v: 6. l. 1. r. he together. Ep. 43. v: 3. l. 7. r. And I Commit. Ep. 46. v: 10. l. 1. r. especially whom. v: 15. l. 3. f. desired. r. derided. Ep. 49. v: 5. l. 3. r. Laboratory. Ep. 53. v: 3. l. 1. r. Electors Council. l. 8. Marg. l. 4. r. Luk. 9. 23. v: 7. l. 5. f. to. r. into. Ep. 54. v: 16. l. 3. Marg. f. Kurtzen. r. Kurtz. l. 5. Marg. r. Math. 20. 8. Ep. Dutch. l. 5. r. bey einem. before: Ep. 3. l. 1. r. foregoing sheete. Ep. 3. v: 2. l. 15. r. vegetives. Ep. 9. l. 1. r. my very. In the Table of Epistles Novemb. 17. r. Bernten. l. 37. r. Hr. A.
C. Weisners Ep. v. 4. l. 5. r. we became. v. 7. l. 9. r. his WIFE, v. 14. l. 1. r. Magistrates. v: 17. l. 4. for them. r. thou. v. 24. l. 2. f. Master r. Matter.
Notes
* 4.1
Acts 8. 18.
* 4.2
NOTE.
† 4.3
Luk. 17. 21.
* 4.4
Gen: 3. 15.
† 4.5
Joh. 3. 7.
* 4.6
2 Tim. 2. 11, 12.
† 4.7
Phil. 3. 10. 11. Rom. 8. 29.
* 4.8
James 1. 12.
† 4.9
1 Cor. 14. 32.
* 4.10
Rev. 14. 13.
† 4.11
NOTE.
* 4.12
Searching only, doth not find the Pearle.
† 4.13
〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
* 4.14
The Auro∣ra.
† 4.15
Silesia.
* 4.16
Mark, Meissen, Saxony.
† 4.17
NOTE The Golden Age will be∣gin in the Midst of the Fire in Babell.
* 4.18
Rev. 10. 7.
† 4.19
Math. 7. 7.
* 4.20
NOTE,
* 4.21
Gerlitz.
* 4.22
Phil: 3. 10, 11. Rom: 8. 29.
† 4.23
Christianus.
* 4.24
Wesen.
† 4.25
Luke 10. 42.
* 4.26
NOTE 1 Thess: 5. 3.
* 4.27
NOTE 1 Thess: 5. 3.
* 4.28
Rev: 22. 16.
† 4.29
Beuten.
* 4.30
Rausche.
* 4.31
1 Cor: 5. 3. Col: 2. 5.
† 4.32
Heb: 3. 13.
* 4.33
Rev: 18. 4.
† 4.34
Isai: 49. 16.
* 4.35
NOTE
† 4.36
Isa: 44. 3. Joel 2. 28. Acts 2. 17, 18.
* 4.37
Math: 24. 14. Mark 13. 10.
† 4.38
Luke. 21. 18.
* 4.39
2 Pet. 1. 14.
* 4.40
Gerlitz
* 4.41
Weicha.
* 4.42
Sagan
* 4.43
Gal. 6. 7.
* 4.44
Rom: 13. 14. Gal: 3. 27.
* 4.45
Beuten. The Apology to Esaiah Stiefel, and Ezekiel Meths, their follow∣ers called Per∣fectists.
* 4.46
Brucks Troppen
* 4.47
Leuten-me∣ritz Boehmia Lippe
* 4.48
Lusatia
* 4.49
Col: 3. 16.
* 4.50
NOTE. GOTT.
† 4.51
KOHT. To GOD I am but DUNG, or filthy Rot∣tenness.
* 4.52
NOTE.
† 4.53
Joh. 15. 5.
* 4.54
1 Pet. 5. 7.
† 4.55
Rom. 8. 28.
* 4.56
Gal. 6. 7.
† 4.57
Conrector.
* 4.58
Zitta.
* 4.59
Dresden.
* 4.60
The way to Christ.
* 4.61
Gerlitz.
* 4.62
.J B. Gods new Planted Rosebud.
† 4.63
Psal. 85. 8.
* 4.64
Primarius.
† 4.65
Gregory Rick∣ter's, Book to which J. B. hath written his Apologie.
* 4.66
Lignitz. Gerlitz. Weichbild Lignitz.
* 4.67
Answer to Gregory Rick∣ter.
* 4.68
Leipzig
* 4.69
Messe. 42. Sheets. 16. Sheets. 27. Sheets. 6. Sheets. 3. Copies of the way to Christ.
† 4.70
Lubeck.
* 4.71
Dresden.
† 4.72
Schlosse.
* 4.73
Isai. 49. 4.
† 4.74
Math. 5. 12.
* 4.75
Leipsig Mart
* 4.76
NOTE.
* 4.77
Gerlitz.
* 4.78
Dresden.
* 4.79
Dresden
* 4.80
Math. 10. 38. and 6 24. Mark. 8. 34. Luke 9. 33.
* 4.81
Swalbach
* 4.82
The Book of Repentance.
* 4.83
Dresden
* 4.84
Prince E∣lector Pala∣tine and King of Boehmia.
* 4.85
Richteren Gregory Rich∣ter
† 4.86
Meissen Saxony Thuringen See-Stad∣ten.
* 4.87
Rom. 8. 28.
† 4.88
Hans Ber∣gern Schoolmaster to Elias Behme.
* 4.89
Michael Hurtzen that wrote Jacob Behme's life after his decease.
† 4.90
Matth 28.
* 4.91
Dresden
* 4.92
1 Cor. 2. 10.
† 4.93
Prov. 16▪ 6.
† 4.94
Rev. 18. 8.
* 4.95
Rev. 18. 4.
† 4.96
Prov. 18. 10.
* 4.97
John 6, 44.
† 4.98
Psal. 126. 5.
* 4.99
1 Cor. 15. 43.
* 4.100
The Philo∣sophick Globe see in the 40. Questions of the Soul.
† 4.101
Jacob Behmes little Book of the Two Testaments, of Baptisme and the Sup∣per.
* 4.102
Zolnig.
* 4.103
Math. 13. 20. Mark 4. 16. Luke 8, 13.
* 8.1
The Three Principles.
† 8.2
The Three∣fold Life.
* 8.3
Carmen∣weise. In Meeter.
* 8.4
Mit Zeigern
* 8.5
The Way to Christ.
* 8.6
✚
† 8.7
Joh. 9 17. 31. Ch. 8. 48.
* 8.8
Joh. 10. 19. 20.
* 10.1
Gerlitz. Dresden.
* 10.2
J. B's. Life at Large with the Book of the way to Christ prin∣ted at Amster∣dam, Anno. 1658.
* 10.3
Lauben.
* 10.4
Balthazar Tilken. Schweintz.
† 10.5
Calvinists.
* 10.6
The value 4. 6.
* 10.7
Dresden
* 10.8
Wittenberg.