Joel, your post raised a question. (And you may have answered this in your book, which I haven't quite finished yet.) You mentioned books chained to pulpits, which was what I had always heard was a symbol of how churches limited access to the Bible and made it accessible only to clergy who would read it aloud to a congregation. But something occurred to me -- could it possibly have been because that Book might have been one of the most valuable (price-wise) objects in the building, and subject to theft?
Latayne, you’re correct. It’s an old Protestant libel against the Catholics. Books, including Bibles, were chained to pulpits, tables, and shelves to prevent them from being stolen. The chains allowed someone to consult the book without giving the freedom wander off with it.
I’ve got a book by Illich around here somewhere but haven’t read it and don’t have an opinion. I’ve heard he’s quite interesting. You’ll have to let me know what you think!
I also approach a newbook the way Pooh approached a jar of honey.
Joel, your post raised a question. (And you may have answered this in your book, which I haven't quite finished yet.) You mentioned books chained to pulpits, which was what I had always heard was a symbol of how churches limited access to the Bible and made it accessible only to clergy who would read it aloud to a congregation. But something occurred to me -- could it possibly have been because that Book might have been one of the most valuable (price-wise) objects in the building, and subject to theft?
Latayne, you’re correct. It’s an old Protestant libel against the Catholics. Books, including Bibles, were chained to pulpits, tables, and shelves to prevent them from being stolen. The chains allowed someone to consult the book without giving the freedom wander off with it.
Lex Orandi
Lex Credendi
Lex Vivendi
.....and if course, LECTIO DIVINA! 🕯️📿 📖
Grace and peace to you Amigo,
as always, pray for Translators! 🌐📚🕊️
Amen!
Joel, I'm reading Ivan Illich in Conversation by David Cayley. Illitch had many ideas about books. Do you have any thoughts on Illitch?
I’ve got a book by Illich around here somewhere but haven’t read it and don’t have an opinion. I’ve heard he’s quite interesting. You’ll have to let me know what you think!