One item that is currently being cataloged for the Rare Book Collection is this early Pietist devotional work that intended for its reader to tear out its pages for personal use. This is the only known copy of the 1725 edition and there is one extant copy of the first edition from 1719 held in Germany. This rarity is likely due in part to the intended ephemerality of the piece. The Biblisches Spruch-Kästlein, or little chest of biblical sayings, is a testament to the beginnings of Pietism within the Lutheran faith. The preface argues that that the reader should not learn solely from sermons, but also from personal exploration of the Bible and its truths, pointing to the work of Lutheran theologian Philipp Jakob Spener, who is considered to be the father of Pietism. This little volume, measuring 7 x 10 cm, includes directions for use, which tell the reader to consider ripping out a particular page to read and remind oneself of spiritual truths throughout the day. Another possibility would be to read one page after the other, or to open the book at random, read the short entry, and look up the corresponding passage in the Bible for further learning. Each page includes a verse from Luther’s translation of the Bible, a reference for further reading, and a rhymed poem that interprets the verse. The poems tend to emphasize the importance of personally studying the Bible. This piece shows a move toward encouraging individual learning and devotion for both the young and old. The Rare Book Collection copy was contained in a small, portable slipcase. Most pages of the volume have been removed from the sewn gatherings and were stored loose in the case (surprisingly very few are wanting). The pages show heavy use and point to personal spiritual education in the early eighteenth century.
