Biblia w oświeceniowych korektach religijności w Polsce XVIII wieku

Abstract

One of the most important elements of the Enlightenment era in the 18th century Poland was introduction of the Bible. Polish as well as German Enlightenment was characterized by moderation and was conducive to implementing ideals of the epoch in the Catholic Church. Enlightenment promoted rationality, humanitarianism, tolerance and optimism. It also attempted to promote the Bible. Catholic Enlightenment strove to form ministry based on the Word of God and promote its importance among the faithful. Therefore the Old and New Testament exegesis were introduced into the seminary education. During homiletic studies, prospective preachers were trained how to use the Bible and the writings of the Church Fathers in the most efficient manner. All of the above led to the emergence of a model of a priest who willingly and accurately used the Holy Book for the spiritual enrichment of the faithful. However the involvement of laity in restoring the importance of the Bible was not foreseen.