Herzog Ernst der Fromme und die sog. Kurfürstenbibel (1641). Höfische Repräsentation und Kommunikation des Wortes Gottes

Abstract

This study on the most extensive work on the Bible that Lutheran Protestantism has ever produced, the so-called Kurfürstenbibel or Elector’s Bible (first published in 1641), presents the bible’s formation under the authorial leadership of Johann Gerhard and Salomon Glassius, the style used in presenting concise biblical commentary, the many supplements to the biblical text, and the impressive array of artwork. This study also demonstrates that the preparation, drafting, and publication of the Kurfürstenbibel is, on the one hand, a media production that serves to represent the elector’s sovereignty. At the same time, however, this medium also communicates the understanding that any mediality of governmental authority finds its limit wherever it sees its own sovereign right on earth confronted with the Son of God who alone is the ultimate medium of salvation.