13 - Hus Before the Council

Chapter XIII - Hus Before the Council

Though the Bohemians and Moravians earnestly protested against the harsh treatment of Hus and demanded his release, he was not released. On June 5, he was brought to the Franciscan cloister, between the Cathedral and St. Stephen’s Church, where he spent his last days on earth. In the afternoon, bearing his chains, he was brought before the Council. He admitted the authorship of his books and declared himself ready to retract every expression that could be proved wrong. The first article was then read. When Hus tried to reply, he was bellowed into silence. When he was silent, they said, Silence gives consent.

Socrates was allowed to make a long defence before his heathen judges; Hus was overwhelmed with angry outcries by the representatives of all Christendom!

Luther commented: “All worked themselves into a rage like wild boars. The bristles of their backs stood on end; they bent their brows and gnashed their teeth against John Hus.”

Hus protested: “I supposed that there would have been more fairness, kindness, and order in the Council.” Hus asked wherein he had erred. “Recant first, and then you will be informed!” Thus ended the first hearing.