The Oera Linda Book, from a Manuscript of the Thirteenth Century
History
The Oera Linda Book, from a Manuscript of the Thirteenth Century
Frisian language -- Texts
The toad blows himself out, but he can only crawl. The frog cries
"Work, work;" but he can do nothing but hop and make himself
ridiculous. The raven cries "Spare, spare;" but he steals and wastes
everything that he gets into his beak.
Finda's people are just like these. They say a great deal about
making good laws, and every one wishes to make regulations against
misconduct, but does not wish to submit to them himself. Whoever is
the most crafty crows over the others, and tries to make them submit
to him, till another comes who drives him off his perch.
The word "Eva" is too sacred for common use, therefore men have
learned to say "Evin."
"Eva" means that sentiment which is implanted in the breast of every
man in order that he may know what is right and what is wrong, and by
which he is able to judge his own deeds and those of others; that is,
if he has been well and properly brought up. "Eva" has also another
meaning; that is, tranquil, smooth, like water that is not stirred by a
breath of wind. If the water is disturbed it becomes troubled, uneven,
but it always has a tendency to return to its tranquil condition. That
is its nature, just as the inclination towards justice and freedom
exists in Frya's children. We derive this disposition from the spirit
of our father Wr-alda, which speaks strongly in Frya's children,
and will eternally remain so. Eternity is another symbol of Wr-alda,
who remains always just and unchangeable.
Eternal and unalterable are the signs wisdom and rectitude, which
must be sought after by all pious people, and must be possessed by
all judges. If, therefore, it is desired to make laws and regulations
which shall be permanent, they must be equal for all men. The judges
must pronounce their decisions according to these laws. If any crime
is committed respecting which no law has been made, a general assembly
of the people shall be called, where judgment shall be pronounced in
accordance with the inspiration of Wr-alda's spirit. If we act thus,
our judgment will never fail to be right.
If instead of doing right, men will commit wrong, there will arise
quarrels and differences among people and states. Thence arise civil
wars, and everything is thrown into confusion and destroyed; and,
O foolish people! while you are injuring each other the spiteful
Finda's people with their false priests come and attack your ports,
ravish your daughters, corrupt your morals, and at last throw the
bonds of slavery over every freeman's neck.
FROM MINNO'S WRITINGS.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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