Jan Hus/John Hus

Jan Hus was a Bohemian priest active in Prague who lived atthe very end of the European Middle Ages. He tried to reform the medieval church but instead was condemned as a heretic and then burned alive at the stake on 6 July 1415 during the Council of Constance. Hus inspired a social revolution, facilitated a vibrant and lasting movement aimed at church reform, and as a result became a Czech national hero. Often associated with John Wyclif and Martin Luther, Hus is a figure in his own right. Partly biographical and partly autobiographical, concerned with the medieval world but presented by means of a modern perspective, Living with Jan Hus is a personal memoir. This is a narrative which seeks to recognize, remember, and reflect on several levels. How, and in what ways, does one focus on a specific historical topic and develop into a protracted preoccupation? Living with Jan Hus chronicles a very long personal journey of intellectual development, as well as an intimate interaction with history, while delineating how the past can inform the present.

This brief account of the life of John Huss (aka Jan Hus) - who was one of the earliest known reformers who was influenced by the writing of John Wycliffe - will serve as a wonderful introduction to the life of this hero of the faith. Despite the cruel deeds done to him before his execution, even some of his enemies acknowledged his humility and goodness. This book could be used for family worship as chapters are brief and to the point. 112 pages, softcover.

The history books make little mention of this Bohemian priest and scholar who lived 100 years before Martin Luther and the Protestant Reformation. Yet John Hus was convinced and taught openly that the Bible should be presented in the language of the people, that salvation comes by faith in Jesus Christ, and the Word of God is the final authority. He was summoned to the Council of Constance and promised safety, but he was betrayed. In the end, Hus was accused, imprisoned, and charged with heresy. Ultimately, he was condemned and burned at the stake as a heretic. Approx. 55 minutes.

Special Features:

• 55-minute version in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French, with or without English subtitles
• 30-minutes abridged version in English
• Study materials in PDF format

14th century Czech priest and scholar John Hus is considered one of the first Protestant reformers. His interpretation of scripture and his bold stand against church corruption would strongly influence Martin Luther a century later. Hus spent his last days as a prisoner in Constance on charges of heresy. During his imprisonment Hus formed an unusual friendship with one of his jailers, Robert Talio. Hus's demonstration of faith in the face of death won Talio over to his cause. This historically based documentary produced for Czech television features outstanding dramatized scenes that reveal Hus's humanity and depict his unwavering commitment to God's mercy and justice. Includes optional English subtitles. Approx. 52 minutes.