Address

To the

R E A D E R.

Friendly, kind-hearted, and impartial reader.

The text begins with a large decorative initial 'E' (standing for "Es," or "It"), featuring a woodcut design of ornate floral and vine motifs. It is right that a precious and dear treasure be brought into faithful protection, so that it may be received according to its dignity and be well-preserved.

Now, one finds gold, silver, and precious stones in the houses of kings and princes; and those who hunt after wealth original: "Reichthumb" also capture their share and lock it in their chests, so that they may enjoy it in times of need and also appear heartily with it in times of peace.

The Kingdom of GodReich GOttes; in Böhme's theology, this refers not to a physical place but to the internal, spiritual reality of the soul where the divine light dwells. however, is found neither with Herod, Pilate original: "Herode, Pilato"; Böhme uses the Latinized forms of these biblical names associated with the trial of Jesus., nor Caiaphas original: "Caipha"; the High Priest who presided over the Sanhedrin trials., but rather among the innocent original: "unmündigen"; literally "under-age" or "minor," referring to those who are spiritually humble and childlike rather than worldly-wise. children and simple hearts, who—although they possess neither power—