LETTER

formation, which, in the third state of the world Joachim of Fiore’s "Third Age" (the Age of the Holy Spirit), which he predicted would be a time of universal love and spiritual understanding., will especially flourish. Finally, there is a very beautiful interpretation of Jeremiah; where it is shown clearer than light that the carnal church, which is called the New Babylon, is to be struck by a triple scourge: first, by the loss of temporal possessions, at the hands of the German Empire; second, by heresy, and especially by the Patarenes Patarenes: A name given to various medieval heretical groups, often associated with the Cathars, whom the author identifies as a source of spiritual corruption., from whose sect the mystic antichrist shall arise; and third, by the sword, at the hands of the infidels and especially the Muslims original: "Mahumetanis". These three will rise up together against the fornicatrix The "carnal church" viewed as the Harlot of Babylon from the Book of Revelation., so that they may utterly cast her down, and at last she may be renewed by Christ her spouse, so that her youth is renewed like the eagle's A reference to Psalm 103:5..

Therefore, I have dedicated and devoted this little book, now to be printed once again, to you, my venerable priest. Receive it, I pray, as gratefully as the spirit in which I offer it, as the beginning of our friendship; for I believe it will be no less delightful than it is consoling to your pious mind. Farewell, man of God, and remember me.