De templis, a treatise of temples wherein is discovered the ancient manner of building, consecrating, and adorning of churches.

A TREATISE OF TEMPLES .

CHAP. I. Of the word Temple , and why not us'd by the Primitive Christians .

TEmpla dicta quasi tecta ampla , so Isidor : Great and ample buildings , are called Temples : according with that of Arnobius , Templum est nescio quid immane , atque amplum . For in old times , onely those buildings which were of great , and magnificent structure , were called Temples . So the Capitol at Rome , the Temple of Diana at Ephesus , of Serapis at Alexandria , of Minerva at Athens , were called Temples , being all huge , and stately buildings .

Rodulphus Agricola derives In 2. declam . Seneca . the word ; à templando , because the ancient heathens ; before they began to build , templabantur , id est , did curiously view , and observe the auguries of the South-sayers , that they might more prosperously succeed in the erection .

Cornelius à Lapide , derives In 2. Cor. cap. 6. v. 16. it à tuendo , and amplifies his derivation , from the double signification of tueri , to see , and defend , Deus enim ( saies hee ) & tuetur & intuetur , God hath alway an Eye upon his Church , and will surely defend it , from all its enemies .

The Primitive Christians , are said not to call their Churches , Temples ; and Cardinall Lib. 3. de cultu Sanctor . Bellarmine , gives this reason for it ; because the Jewish sacrifices offer'd in their Temple , were as yet fresh in memorie , and might with the name seeme still to remaine : as also because the Gentiles , call'd the places where they worshipt their Idols by the same names . So that you shall not often find ( if I mistake not ) in ancient Christian writers , the word Temple , unlesse signifying the Temples of the heathen , untill the time of Constantine the Great , by whose munificent pietie , stately , and beanteous Temples were every where erected , the Temples of Idols destroyed , and the Christians enjoyed publique libertie , throughout the whole world , then also was the name Priest , more frequently applyed to the Christians , as appeares in the writings of S. Hilarie , S. Ambrose , S. Augustin , and others .

Laelius Bisciola is of opinion , Lib. 17. cap 19. that the Primitive Christians had no Temples , their poverty was not able to erect so stately , and glorious buildings , as were called Temples . Nor if they had beene able , would the Gentiles have suffered them , for we read in Ecclesiasticque stories , that they pull'd downe their humble , and low Oratories : Besides , it was not lawfull , for any to build a Temple , unlesse the ground were first hallowed by the Idolatrous , and superstitious ceremonies , of the Augurs , which the Christians could by no meanes endure .

CHAP. II. Divers names of the Temples of the Gentiles .

DElubra , were sacred structures of the Gentiles , so called ( as Isidor saith ) à diluendo , for they had fountaines belonging to them , in the which they were wont to wash , before they entered into them , for which reason ( saith hee ) well might our Temples be cald Delubra , at whose entrance stands the sacred Font , by whose water , we are cleans'd in Baptisme from our sins . But those Temples have beene so polluted , by the sacrilegious Idolatrie of the heathens , that all Christian writers , ( unlesse the Poets for verse sake ) abhor the very word .

Fana , were a kind of Temples , so called , à fando , saies Festus , from certaine words uttered by the Priests , when the bounds of the ground wheron they stood were first limited . Others think they were so called à Faunis , from their Gods Fauni , to whom they were dedicated .

Saint Paul speaking of 1 Cor. 8. 10 the Temples of Idols , cals them Idolia , receptacles of vaine Idols , and feigned deities , in which they were kept , and worshipped , and in which they kept feasts with the meat which was offered in sacrifice to the Idols , of which kind of feastings , Herodotus speaks , and also Virgil. Lib 8. Aeneid .

The Turks have their Fana , some greater than others , all which in their language are called Moschits or Mosquitas , the greatest of all , is that of Sancta Sophia at Constantinople , of which more hereafter .

In Japan , the cheifest Temple ( they say ) of 13000. is called Denix , from the name of their Idoll Denichi , which they worship under the forme of the Sun , the Moone , and the Elements .

CHAP. III. Divers names of the Iewish Temples .

THe Jewes , before Salomons Temple was built , had their Tabernacle , which they called the house of the Lord . So we read , how that Elcana brought 1 Sam. 1. 32. Samuel to the house of the Lord in Silo , where is meant , the Tabernacle , for the Temple was not then built . The word is a diminutive à Tabernâ , which signifies any house , fit for habitation , à tabulis , because they were usually enclos'd with boards , but though built of other matter , custome still retained the name .

The Jewes Tabernacle had the forme of a Temple , but was made as the Tents and Tabernacles wherein the Jewes dwelt at that time when Moyses built it .

The first part of the Tabernacle , in which was the Candlestick , the Table , &c. was called the Sanctuary , and into this first Tabernacle , all the Priests might enter , and at all times , but into the second , which was called Sanctum Sanctorum , might the high Priest onely come , and that but once every yeare , not without blood , which hee offered for himselfe , and for the errours of the people , as we read Hebrewes 9. 2. A sanguine , from blood , saith Isidor , comes the word Sanctum , for the ancients accounted nothing holy , Nisi quod hostiae sanguine esset consecratum , unlesse it were hallowed , with the blood of a Sacrifice .

That most sacred place of the Tabernacle which was called Sanctum Sanctorum , the holiest of holies , because it conteined in it , the most holy things which apperteined to the Jewish religion , was also called Oraculum , the Oracle , from the Divine answers , which therein were uttered by the voyce of an Angell .

The Jewes had also , besides the Temple of Salomon , certaine other edifices dedicated to the worship of God , which were called Synagogues , from the Greek word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 to assemble or gather together , in these houses it was lawfull to pray , to preach , or dispute , but not to offer sacrifices . The Temple was as it were the Cathedrall Church , the Synagogues as petty parish Churches belonging to it . The farre distance of the Temple , was the first occasion of building these Synagogues ; to which those Jewes that dwelt in remote places , might repaire in stead of the Temple , like to our Chappels of ease in great Parishes .

Wee often read in holy Scriptures the Temple called the house of God , the house of the Lord : and our blessed Saviour , from the cheifest service men doe in it , called it Domus Orationis , Mat. 21. 13. the house of prayer .

CHAP. IV. Divers names of Christian Temples .

AS Synagoga amongst the Jewes , so the word Ecclesia , amongst Orthodox Christian writers , signifies not onely the Congregation of the people of God , but the place also where the Assembly meets . Ecclesia dicitur ( saith Saint Augustin ) quò Ecclesia congregatur , the place where the Catholique Church meets together , is called a Church .

Basilica , is often read in Saint Angustin , and other Fathers , for a Temple : Bellarmin saith , that Lib. 3. cap. 4. de cult . Sanctor . the same place may bee called a Temple , as it is destin'd to Gods worship , and a Basilica , as it is the ornament of some Saints Sepulcher , and so , is both a Temple to God , and a Tombe to his Martyrs . Kings Palaces , were of old called Basilicae , from Βασιλευς , a King , and the sacred Temples , dedicated to the King of Kings , may well bee so called . Basilicae were also certaine buildings adjoyning to Market places , where the Judges sate , and decided Law cases , mentioned by Plinius secundus in one of his Epistles , Descendebam in Basilicam Iulianam , sedebant Iudices . &c. I went into the Iulian Basilica , where the Judges sate . These Basilicae , saith Baronius , were Martyrol . Rom. by a happy Metamorphôsis , changed into Christian Churches , and still retained their old name , as may be gathered by that of Ausonius In gratiarum actione pro consolatu . to Gratian : Basilicae , olim negotiis plenae , nunc votis , votisque pro tuâ salute susceptis : Those Basilicae , which erst while were throngd with publike negotiations , are now filled with praiers , and wishes , for your Majesties prosperity . And the agreement in forme of the ancient Christian Churches , with these Basilicae makes the opinion very probable ; for the Basilicae were divers galleries or porticues , joyned together , standing upon columnes , equally distant , as Vitruvius teaches .

Churches built in remembrance of some Saint or Martyr , were called Memoriae ; Saint Augustin uses this word often , in his book of the City of God , Memoria Lib. 22. cap 8. Martyrum ibi est Mediolanensium , Gervasii , & Protasii : There ( saith hee ) is the Memoriall of Gervase and Protase , both Martyrs of Millan . And else-where , Nos Martyribus nostris , non Templa sicut Diis , sed Memorias , sicut hominibus mortuis , quorum apud Deum , spiritus vivunt fabricamus : Wee erect not Temples to our Martyrs , as if wee thought them gods , but Memorials , as to men whose soules , we are sure , live with God .

The same Temples which the Latines call Memoriae , the Greekes call Martyria , which at first were onely those Churches , in which the bodies of holy Martyrs were interred . Afterwards other Churches shared in the name , so that famous Temple of the Resurrection of our Saviour , at Jerusalem , ( built by the singular care , and pietie of Eustace , a Priest of Constantinople , as Saint Hierome writeth ) was called a Martyrie , because is was a Testimoniall of our blessed Saviours Resurrection .

Christian Churches are also called Tituli , so Prudentius , Parte aliâ titulum Pauli , &c. now the chief Churches only , which in Rome belong to the Lords Cardinals , are called Tituli .

There are in Rome certaine Churches called Diaconiae , Deaconries belonging to the Cardinall Deacons .

They were at first , houses of publique hospitality , having Oratories adjoyning to them , in which the Deacons ministred to the necessities of the poor fatherlesse children , and widdowes .

Parochia or rather Paraeciae , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . are Parish Churches , ordained for a certaine number of neighbouring inhabitants , who are to receive from the Parish Priest , the holy Sacraments , and all things else , needfull for the Salvation of soules .

A little place , ordained onely for prayers , is called Oratorium , an Oratory , in Greeke , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , or 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , a house of Prayer .

Oratories adjoyning to Temples , are called Cubicula , Closets . Pope Leo is reported by Anastasius , to have ordained divers Clergy men , to be Cubicularii Keepers , or Clerks of the Closet .

A Chaunterie so called a Cantando , is a Church or Chappell , endowed with Lands , or other yearely revenues , for the maintenance of one or more Priests daily , to sing Masse for the soule of the donour and such others as they did appoint .

The heathens had certaine sacred places , which they called Sacella , and those little Churches , or rather parts of great Churches , which are divided from the body of the Church , by iron bars , or latices , are by the Christians so called .

These Sacella are also called Capellae , Chappels , of which Honorius in his Sermon of Saint Martin , saith thus ; Sancti Martini Capa , Francorum Regibus ad bella euntibus , pro signo anteferebatur , & per eam hostibus victis , victoria potiebatur , & Custodes illius Capae , usque hodie Capellani appellantur : The French Kings ( saith hee ) had Saint Martins Cap caried before them to battaile , for an ensigne ; and those clergy men , who caryed it , were called Capellani Chaplaines , and the place where it was kept , was called Capella .

The Greekes call their Temple 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the holy place , they called it also 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , because it is Gods house where he dwells , though some thinke rather from the Hebrew word Naghan , which signifies beauty , since nothing ought to be so beautifull , as the Temple , whence that of the Psalmist . That our daughters may be as the corner stones polished after the similitude of a Temple .

We call our greatest Churches Cathedrals , because they belong ad Cathedram Episcopi , to the Episcopall Seat ; they are also called Ecclesiae Episcopales & Baptismales , also Mother Churches . For in the primitive times ( either in imitation of Saint Iohns baptizing of Christ in the river Jordan , or rather quia nondum Oratoria vel Lib. 2. cap. 14. Eccl. hi. Baptistoria in ipso exordio nascentis Ecclesiae poterant aedificari ; as venerable Bede thinkes , because they were unprovided of Fonts and Churches , therefore ) the rites of Baptisme were performed in rivers and fountaines ; but afterwards , it was ordered that Baptisterials , or Fonts should be placed in the great Church of every City , wherein the Bishop himselfe resided , and the right of Baptisme belonged to the Cathedrall Church onely , unlesse in case of necessitie . And these Churches were therefore called Mother Churches . Because that as the people in their mothers womb were borne men , so in the Fonts of Baptisme as in the Churches womb , they were borne Christians . In after ages ( because of the farre distances of the Cathedrall Churches ) the right of Baptisme was transferred to Parochiall Churches ; which Churches in regard of the Chappels of ease , and private Oratories belonging to them , may now also be called Baptismall and Mother Churches , to whom only belong the right of Sepulture and Baptisme .

We Englishmen , call the Temple the Church ; in the North parts of England the Kyrk , from the Greek word κυριακον , or κυριακη , the Lords house : and Cedrenus speaking of the Emperour Constantin , uses this very word , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , hee makes Temples or Churches , to the honour of God . It is also used by the Laodicean Councell , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . It is not fit to keep feasts in the Churches . And Saint Hierom. often uses the Latin word , Dominicum , or Dominica for the Temple .

There are certaine Churches called Minsters , quasi Monasters à Monasterio , as some think , because the Canons in former times , lived a Monastique life , as appeares by their houses , and cloysters , and had all things in common , like as the Primitive Christians had . And hitherto of the names of Temples .

CHAP. V. The definition of a Temple .

A Temple is by some thus defined , Templum est aedificium Deo consecratum , it is an edifice , consecrated to God . And in this definition is conteined the whole nature of any Temple .

It is an edifice , whether made of wood , or of stone , as marble , Touch , &c. or of metals , as brasse , silver , gold , &c. the word signifies , as well poore , and meane buildings , as great , and noble . Ara floribus redimita spelunca frondibus inumbrata : an Altar ( saith one ) deckt with flowers or a cave , or grotto , made of boughes , may bee called a Temple .

It is reported of our own Ancestors the old Saxons , that they used to have publique praiers under a Crosse , erected in the open fields , which place and structure was to them a Temple . Mosest Saxonicae gentis quod in nonnullis nobilium bonorumque hominum praediis Sanctae Crucis signum Domino dicatum , & cum magno honore in altum erectum ad commodam diurnae orationis sedulitatem solent habere . Hodaperic . Wilibaldi .

We read also how the holy Patriarch Iacob , erected Gen. 28. 17. the stone on which he had slept , for a Temple , and with a seemly reverence powring oyle upon it , said thus . Quàm terribilis est locus iste , &c. How terrible is this place , it is no other than the house of God , the gate of heaven .

When wee say , it is consecrated to God , we not onely distinguish it from all profane buildings , but also teach the end , for which it was built . And if by God , we will understand the feigned deities , in this definition may also bee comprehended , the Fana and Delubra , of the heathens , as well as the Temples of the Jewes , and Christians , or any other , who ignorantly worship the true God ; for wee read that Saint Paul found an Altar at Act. 17. 23. Athens , with this inscription , Ignoto Deo , To the unknowne God , which God ( Saint Paul saith ) they ignorantly worship'd . Finally , whether you consider the matter , forme , figure , situation , &c. of Temples , all are in this definition comprized .

CHAP. VI. Of the forme or figure of Temples .

THe forme of a Temple , is twofold , either the externall forme , which is obvious to every beholder , or the internall forme , which bodily eyes , cannot see . That consists in the figure , and outward workmanship : This in the dedication . The externall forme , of which wee intend to speak , depending almost wholly on the fancie of the Architect , has ever been various , and uncertaine . The Gentiles commonly fitted their buildings to the nature of their Gods . Iupiter Olympius's Temple , was built after the Dorique order , with columnes round about the outsides of it ; and by Iupiter was signified the fire , as by Iuno the ayre , whose Temple they builded after the self-same order , and manner , intending doubtlesse thereby , to signifie , the great strength of the two elements , of fire , and ayre ; as also , the vicinity of the nature of ayre , in its supreme region to the fire .

Vitruvius saith , that the Dorique manner of Lib. 1. 3. 4. building , being more strong , doth best beseem the Temple of the more warlike and robustious Gods , as Mars and Hercules , &c. But to Flora , Venus , the Nymphes of the fountaines , and the like delicate Godesses , if you build a Temple , let it bee after the Corinthian order , more slender & beautifull , the Capitols & Freezes , grac'd with curious leaves and carved flowers . To Deities of the middle sort , as Iuno , Diana , Bacchus , &c. let the Temples be erected after the Ionique building , which is the meane betwixt the severe grave Dorique order , and the light slender and effeminate building of Corinth .

Many of the Temples of the Heathen , in the Apostles times , and in the time of Constantine the great , were converted from Idols , to the worship of the true God , yet still reteined their old figure and shape , Alia falsorum Numinum Templa , dirui , alia in meliorem Serm. 3 de verb. Apost . usum commutari consuevere ▪ as Saint Augustin tels us .

Some Temples of the Heathens were converted to the service of the true God : Others were quite demolished . We Euseb. de vit. Const. Lib. 3. read , how that the wicked infidels had erected a Temple , in that verie place where our Saviours Sepulcher was , to their impure Goddesse Venus , which Constantin pulled down to the very foundation , commanding also that the stones , timber , and rubbish of it , should bee carryed farre from that ground .

Saint Greg. in an Epistle Lib. 9. Epist. 71 to Melitus an Abbot , gives command , that Augustine the Bishop ( as I suppose ) of Canterbury , and he to whom England owes much for her conversion , should destroy the Idols in England , but suffer their Temples still to stand : Nam Gens illa verum Deum cognoscens ( saith hee ) ad loca quae consuevit familiariùs concurret , and a little after : Duris mentibus omnia abscindere , impossibile esse non dubium est . Qui locum summum ascendere nititur , gradibus vel passibus , non saltibus elevatur , &c. And by this , we may guesse at the figure of the Churches , which the primitive Christians first used . The figure most affected by the ancient heathen , was the round , imitating ( as it were ) thereby the Heavens . Of this figure , was Vesta's Temple , built in Rome by Numa , of this figure was also the famous Pantheon .

Indeed the Temples which the Christians erected from the very foundation , were of other figure , yet some of them were of the round ; such was that stately Temple of Sancta Sophia builded by the Emperor Constantine , of which Phil: Lonicerus hath this Tom. 1. Chron. Turc . Par. 2. cap. 1. description ; The Temple of Sancta Sophia at Constantinople , excels all the rest , the roof is vaulted and covered with lead : in figure not unlike the Pantheon in Rome , but much greater , and higher . It stands upon stately Marble and Porphyrie pillars , the doores of it are all covered with brasse , one of which is said , to have been made of the wood of Noah's Ark. This Temple ( saith he ) was built by Constantine the great , but now the Turks have throwne downe the Altars , paintings , and Images of the Christians , and cast their bels into Ordnance .

Pet: Gregorius Tolozanus Lib. 12. de Rep. cap. 22. saith , that the Apostles themselves gave order , that the body of the Church should be built long , after the figure of a ship , in which the Bishop should sit as Pilot , the Deacons as Mariners : The Bishops seat should be placed in the middle ; on the one side , should sit the Priests , and Deacons ; on the other side the Lay men , and the women should bee separated from the men , in a place by themselves .

Constantine beautified the City Antioch , with a most spacious and saire Church , whose inward part or quire , was of an octangular figure , for the conveniency of many private Oratories belonging to it .

Divers Churches have many Isles , joyned to the body of the Church , like so many boats , or ships , compacted and tyed together ; and some think that by this figure , the Christian builders did desire to expresse Saint Peters boat , warning us , that faile here in this world , amongst so many rocks , and dangers , to be sure wee commit ourselves , to a safe bottom , by whose help , we may at last arive at our blessed haven , for want of which care , many dayly make shipwrack of their salvation .

We see many Churches built after the figure of a Crosse , and without doubt , the pious builders , did by that figure desire to resemble the Crosse on which CHRIST was Crucified .

CHAP. VII . Of the parts of Christian Temples .

BEllarmine observes Lib. 3. de cult . Sanctor . cap. 3. , that Christian Temples are built with three parts , after the fashion of Salomons Temple . First there is the portch , which the Greeks call 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the Latines Vestibulum . Secondly , there is the 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the ship or body of the Church . Thirdly , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the quire or Chancell , divided from the body of the Church , by an ascent of steps and certaine cancelli , latices , bars , or hangings , which part belongs to the Priests onely .

Durandus compares Lib. 1. Enchir. cap. 1. the parts of the Church , to the parts of a mans body ; the place where the Altar stands , to the head , the Crosse on either side , to his armes , the body of the Church , to the rest of his body .

Baronius distinguishes Anno Christi 57. N. 103. the Church into foure parts . viz. the Portch , the Church it selfe , the Chancell , and the place most sacred , where the Altar stands .

There is adjoyning also to Churches a little house , or roome , in which the Priest prepares himselfe to doe his holy office , called Aedicula Salutatoria , & Sacrarium , the Sacrary , or Vestry .

Pope Clement is said to have commanded that on either side of Churches , should be built Pastophoria , little chambers or roomes , into which the reliques of the holy Eucharist , were caryed , and in them the sacred vessels , and vestments were to bee kept , Paulinus expresses the use of these places in this distick , Hic locus est , veneranda penus Epi. 12. qua conditur , & qua Ponitur alma sacri pompa Ministerii .

The Greekes agree , much with the Latines , in the figure of their Churches , as appeares by that of Simeon Archbishop of Thessalonica , in his booke De Templo . Our Temples ( saith he ) have three parts , viz. the place before the Temple , which we call the Church portch , the Temple it selfe , and the Chancell . Which three-fold division , may put us in mind of the sacred mystery of the blessed Trinity , as also of the three-fold order of holy Angels ; besides there is on earth a three-fold distinction of the elect people of God , who are either Priests , or perfect beleevers , or publique penitents : Further ( saith hee ) the Church Portch , denotes Earth : the Church , Heaven ; the Chancell , the things above the Heavens .

There were in the Greeke Churches five places , or stations assigned to the penitents , which were not divers parts of the Church , but had their denominations from the divers actions performed in them . The first was without the Church doores , where the Penitents stood weeping and imploring the prayers of those that went in , or out , called in Latin Fletus .

The second called Auditio , was within the Church doores , where they heard divine service , and the Scriptures expounded .

The third , Subjectio or Substratio , which was within the body of the Church , behind the seates , from whence they went forth of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . Chryso . Liturg. Church , with the Catechumeni , when these words were uttered by the Deacon , Qui Catechumeni sunt , exeant . You that are as yet learning the Principles of Religion , and are not Baptized , goe ye forth of the Church .

The fourth place , was called Consistentia ; where having performed Canonicall penance , they stood with the rest of the Congregation , and prayed .

The fift was Participatio ; where with the rest of the faithfull ( having brought forth fruits worthy of Repentance ) they received the holy Communion .

And thus farre of the parts of Christian Temples , which Bellarmine saith , are built after the fashion of Salomons Temple ; and some people are so wise , as they feare lest to build a Christian Church so like Salomons Temple , bee directly to bring in Judaisme . But wiser men than they , know that all which the Jewes did , was not Judaisme , Let them remember that for their comfort .

CHAP. VIII . Of the situation of Temples , and why Eastward ?

THe situation of Temples , hath respect either to the place on earth , or to the climate of the Heavens . We read of Temples built in sundry places : Some on the shoare , to Venus and Neptune ; some on the tops of Mountaines , called in holy writ , High-Places ; some in Valleys , others in Fields , in Cities , in dark Groves , and some under the Earth . But where ever they were built , they all looked towards the East , and received the light of the rising Sun , at their upper end , as divers Authors testifie : Perchance the reason why the Gentiles used this situation was , because they were wont to sing Hymnes , and praises to their Idols , at Sunne-rising . And Plato Lib. 10. de legib . tells us , that as well Greeks , as Barbarians , at the rising , and setting , of the Sun and Moon , used often prostrations and adorations . From which custome of the heathens Clemens takes occasion to blame the lazinesse of 2 Consti . c. 64. 10 such Christians as came late to Church .

The same position and situation of Temples has ever beene in use amongst the Christians , as the testimonie of ancient Authors , besides experience reach us : Ecclesias Christianorum , Lib. con . Valent. Orientem amare solitas , saies Tertulian , Christian Temples have ever born a love towards the East . Some write , that it was a tradition of the Apostles , that in solemn Bellar. de cultu Sancto . lib. 3. cap. 3. and publique prayers , in the Church , all should turne their faces towards the East , and for that reason , all Churches were built Eastward , unlesse some few , which the inconvenience of the place would not permit to be so built , as that at Antioch , of which Socrates takes speciall notice , whose Altar was Lib. 5. cap. 21. placed at the West .

Divers other reasons are given for building Christian Temples Eastward , as because of the early frequenting of Matins by the primitive Christians , which Tertulian , Clemens , Philo , & Apol. c. 2. lib. de convit . Lib. 10 Epist. 97 Plinius secundus in one of his Epistles to Trajan , and others report , to have been by them , most exactly and religiously observed . Who when the Sun began to disperse his rayes upon the earth , did then begin to poure forth their soules to their God , the very situation of the Temple , as it were teaching them , with what actions they were to begin the day , for no time is so fit to present our prayers and devotions to the divine Majesty , no time so glorious , as the morning , no time of the day so well agreeing with our infirmity .

Another reason , why rather to the East , than to any other region of the Heavens , may bee because it has ever been accounted the most excellent part of the world , from thence the Heavens begin their motions . Thither therefore we turne our faces , in our prayers , rising as it were from the night of sin , and forsaking the works of darknesse , wee implore the Divine goodnesse , to shew the light of his countenance upon us .

Saint Augustin gives Tom. 4. this reason , Cum oramus ad Orientem convertimur , non tanquam ibi sit Deus , & quasi caeteras mundi partes deseruerit , qui Majestate potentiae , ubique praesens est ; sed ut admoneatur animus , ad excellentiorem se convertere , id est ad Dominum , cum ipsum corpus , quod terrenum , ad corpus excellentius , scilicet coeleste convertitur . We turn our faces ( saith hee ) towards the East , when we pray , not as if we thought God were there onely to bee found , whose Majesty is every where present , but when wee turne our earthly bodies , to that glorious part of the Heavens , our soules may consider the glorious Majestie of that nature , to which we addresse our petitions .

Furthermore , God placed the Garden of Paradise in the East ; for where the vulgar translation reads , Plantaverat Deus Paradisum , à principio . Gen. 2. The Septuagint better according to the originall have it , κατὰ ἀνατολὰς , Eastward , thither therefore wee turne our faces , saith Greg : Nyssen , Lib. 2. de Ora. like banished men , toward our owne Countrey .

Other reasons may be taken from our blessed Saviour , who is called , Lux mundi , and Sol Iustitiae , Iohn 8. The light of the world , the Sun of righteousnesse , Cujus nomen est Oriens , Zach. 6. 12. S. Hier. transl . the day spring from above , to him wee direct our prayers , from him our soules receive illumination , motion , life , and being , as the whole world from the Eastern Sun , receives its light and heat .

The Sanctum Sanctorum of the Jewish Temple was built Westward , and when they prayed , they turned their faces that way , Ezechiel 8. 16. Those who contrary to the rites and custome of their Temple , prayed with their faces towards the East , are said to bee guilty of an exceeding great abomination . And indeed well might their lookes bee towards the West , who still even to this day in vaine , expect the Messias , that Sun of righteousnesse to arise : Wel might their faces be Westward , their Church , and Kingdome , being bending to its eternall night . But we Christians , firmely believe that our Saviour is risen from the dark night of the grave , his Church shall for ever endure , of his Kingdome shall be no end .

When our Redeemer hung dying on the Crosse , it is very probable that his face was Westward , and true Christians , saith Damascen , Lib. 4. de fide cap. 13. are drawn Eastward in their prayers ( as the needle , by a secret magnetique vertue , is drawn towards the North ) as it were beholding the face of their Saviour .

Furthermore , Christs Resurrection was in the blushing morning , when the Angels , in stead of wakefull Cocks , saluted that bright following day .

Lastly , hee ascended into Heaven in the East , and from thence we expect his second comming , which as himselfe has fore ▪ told us , shall be Mat. 24 , 27. as lightning from the East .

Surely , they doe right piously , who observe this ceremony of turning Eastward , when they pray , with the like devotion , it was first instituted , yet are not Christans so strictly to observe it , in their Churches , as the Turks are bound in their Mosques to turne South , towards their Meccha . It is ( as Aquinas teaches ) Secunda secundae quest. 84 art. 3. very much conducing , to the decencie of publique prayer , it is not required of necessity , especially in private devotions , seeing there is no commandement for it . And in publique prayers also , in the Temple , if upon good reasons , we turne any other way without contempt of Authority ; or suppose the situation of the Church be not Eastward , we may certainly bee blamelesse . For Psal. 145. 18 God alike in everie place , is neere to them that call upon him , to all that call upon him in truth . But surely the former reasons , seriously pondered , may serve to stirre up in our soules more fervency and devotion in prayer .

CHAP. IX . Of the Rites , and Ceremonies , used at the Dedication of Heathen Temples .

THe Dedication makes the edifice a Temple : many Palaces and profane buildings have the like situation , and figure ; yet are not Temples , because not consecrated to God . That we Christians may learne even from the vaine superstition of the Heathen , with what reverence the places dedicated to the true God are to be used , we intend first , to speak of the Dedication of Heathen Temples .

Before they began to build , the limits and bounds of the ground , were determined , and designed , and this they called effari Templum , Varro . Fest. Pomp. vel sistere Fanum , all which was most religiously , and carefully performed by the supestitious ceremonies of the Augures . After this , they began to build , and when the building was finished , the founders dedicated them to some God , to whom by vow they had formerly bound themselfes to erect them . Lastly , followed the Consecration , or Inauguration , by the Soothsayers , after whose auguries , they were accounted most sacred ; and unlesse all their rites and ceremonies had passed , they were not called Temples , and this is the difference made of Templum , and Aedes sacra , in Lib. 14. cap. 7. Aulus Gellius .

Tacitus hath this relation lib 4. of Jupiter Capitolius Temple , when it was re-edified by Vespasian ; The Emperour ( saith hee ) committed the whole care of the businesse to Lucius Vestinus , a Gentleman in Rome of great note . Vestinus diligently consults the Augures , they command that all the rubbish of the former Temple , bee first carried into the marish grounds , then that the Temple be built in the selfe-same limits , in which it formerly had stood , for the Gods ( say they ) love no new fashions : All this being done , on the eleventh of the Calends of July , being a very faire day , the space of ground , whereon the Temple should stand , was all bedecked , and adorned with garlands , and ribbins ; and the Souldiers whose names were accounted fortunate and lucky , entered in upon it , with greene boughes in their hands ; Then followed the Vestall Nunnes , with boyes and girles , whose fathers and mothers were then living , and all besprinckl'd the ground with faire river waters : After these came Plautus Aelian , the high Priest , ( whom Helvidius Priscus the Pretor of the City , follwed ) and he Consecrated the ground , with Sacrifices of Bulls and Oxen , which he offered on an Altar of greene turf , imploring Jupiter , Juno , Pallas , and the other Gods , which were presidents of the Empire , and Tutular of cheir City , that they would please to prosper their beginnings , and by their divine help , assist the piety of mortall men , in the erection of their owne house ; then tooke hee a ribbin into his hands , which was tyed to a great stone , to which were also fastned many ropes , which the Priests , the Magistrates , Senators , Gentlemen , and divers of the common people , laying hold on , with great joy , drew the first stone into the foundation , after which they cast many great lumps of untried Gold and Silver , for the Augures had stricktly commanded , that onely the Primitiae Metallorum , the oare of metals , which never came in the furnace , should bee cast in ; lest the worke should bee profaned by any oblation which had formerly beene destined to any other use . Thus farre Tacitus . Divers other Authors report the like solemnities at the Dedication of other Lib. 6. cap. 14. Lib. 19. Temples , as Alexander ab Alexandro , Livie , and Dio Cass : who tells of Lib. 60 great feasting , when the Temple which Tiberius dedicated to Livia , was Consecrated , Tiberius feasted all the Senators , Livia their wives , and other matrons of Rome . Wee read also in holy Scripture , with what solemnity the Golden Statue of Nebuchadnezzar Dan. 3. was erected . Others speake of Masques and Playes , and other pompeous shewes , used by the Heathen , at the Consecration of their Temples . And they are said to have beene so strict and curious in observing the rites of Dedication , that they would rather build the Temple anew , than any whit commit an errour in the observance of them .

CHAP. X. Of the Dedication of the Iewes Temples .

THe solemnities used by the Jewes , at the Dedication of their Altars , before the written Law , are copiously set downe in the sacred Scriptures . In them wee also read of the great gifts and oblations offered by the Hebrew Princes under the Law , at the Dedication of their Tabernacle , when it was anointed all over with an oyntment of a most fragrant smell .

In them wee read of Num. 7 the burnt offrings , and peace offrings , offered by David on the Altar , which he built unto the Lord , in the threshing floore of Araunah the 2 San. 24. Jebusite . Of the great rejoycing that was at the Dedication of the Temple , after it was reedified by Cyrus , how they kept the day holy , on which it was dedicated , Macch. 4. how they adorned the fore-front of the Temple with golden Crownes and Shields , and Judas and his brethren , and the rest of the Congregation ordained , that the dayes of the Dedication of the Altar , should be kept in their season , from yeare to yeare , for the space of eight dayes , with great mirth , and gladnesse , which very solemnities were kept , and observed in our Saviours time , as appeares by Saint Johns Iohn 10. 22. Gospell .

But above all , the rites and solemnities used by the Jewes , those used by Salomon , at the first Dedication of the Temple , are most remarkable . When the building 1 Reg 8. was quite finished , he first assembled the Elders of Israel , and all the heads of the Tribes , the chief of the fathers of the children of Israel , to bring the Ark of the Covenant out of Sion , the City of David . Then the Priests tooke up the Ark , and brought it , and the Tabernacle , and the holy vessells , into the Temple , with all the religious pomp that might be , and placed the Arke of the Covenant , in the most holy place of the Temple , called the Oracle : King Salomon himselfe kneeling meekly on his knees , prayes to God , before the Altar , beseeching him to remember the word which hee spake to his servant David , that hee would dwell on earth with his people . And to heare in Heaven and to forgive the sinnes of his people Israel , which should pray , and make supplications in that house . After this , hee rose up , and spreading forth his hands to Heaven , hee stood and blessed all the Congregation . Lastly , he offered , two and twenty thousand Oxen , and an hundred and twentie thousand sheep . And God himselfe crowned these religious solemnities , with his most sacred presence , in a glorious Cloud . So that the Priest could not stand to minister , because of the Cloud , for the glorie of the LORD had filled the house , and this glorious splendour all the people beheld , as Serm. in lib. Reg. & Para. lib. 3. Serrarius upon that place tells us .

CHAP. XI . Of the Consecration of Christian Temples .

AS for Christian Temples , it is most certaine that the custome of consecrating them , has been used ever since the Apostles times : Saint Clement Epist. 2. in an Epistle to S. James the brother of our Lord , has these words , Ecclesias , per congrna & utilia facite loca , quae divinis precibus sacrare oportet . Build your Churches in decent and convenient places , and Consecrate them with divine praiers .

Eusebius lib. 10. cap. 3. saith , that no sooner was Constantine created Emperour , but immediatly the sacred Temples were from the foundations , raised to an exceeding height . Then , saies he , was that long wished for , and much desired sight seene , the celebrating of the Dedication of Churches , The Consecration of Oratories , The meeting together of Bishops , The uniting of the members of Christ , into one Harmony , which had beene severed into forraine Countries .

Pope Sylvester , is said Ritual . Roman . to have instituted these ceremonies of Consecration . First , hee ordained that a Crosse should be erected to signifie , that the place was destined for a Church , and sacred to our blessed Saviour , who was crucified for our sinnes . Then , that it should be Consecrated by none but a Bishop , who first knocks at the doore , after opens it with his Crosiers staffe , thereby signifying , that power is given to the Priest , to knock at the doores of our hearts , by the preaching of the Word , and by it to open them , for the receiving of Faith . After that , the Bishop enters the Church and with his staff , on the pavement , which is strewd with ashes for the same purpose , hee writes the characters of the Greek and Latine Alphabet , teaching thereby that our hearts being open'd , and prepared to receive faith , the Priest as it were writes in them , the Elements and Principles of Christian Faith , and Religion : Next hee besprinkles the Church with a brush of Hysop , dipt in holy water , teaching thereby , that when the grounds of Christian Religion , are perfectly learned , afterwards followes the Sacrament of Baptisme . Hee also ordained that twelve Crosses , should be painted on the wall , signifying the twelve Apostles , who valiantly bare that banner , throughout the world : Twelve Lamps are also lighted , denoting that by their preaching , the whole world was enlightned , which before sate in darknesse , and in the shadow of death . And as the liquour of oyle , swimmes above other liquours , so the office of Priesthood , is more sacred than other worldly dignities . Lastly , when the solemnities of Consecration , are quite ended , hee ordained , that the rest of the day should be kept holy , with much mirth and rejoycing , and that the mirth and joy of that day , should every yeare , bee celebrated afresh . Thereby teaching , that after this life , piously ended , we shall certainely enter into the joyes of Heaven , which are joyes without any sorrow , without any feare , without any end .

And this custome wee see is still observed by the practise of Christians , in our yearely feasts , and Wakes , and was also in ancient times , as may appeare by the Sermons of holy Fathers , made at the Anniversaries of the Dedication of Churches . And thus the afore-named Judas Macchabeus , celebrated the Dedication of the Temple yearly . Which Feast Iohn 10. 22. Christ himselfe honoured with his sacred presence , which gave occasion to Felix Quartus , to write thus to the Bishops of sundry Provinces . Solennitates Dedicationis Ecclesiarum , per singulos annos celebrandos esse ipso Domino exemplum dante ▪ qui ad Festum Dedicationis Templi , cum reliquis populis , eandem Festivitatent celebraturus venit . Christ himselfe , gave us an example of keeping yearly Feasts , who came himselfe , with the rest of the people , to celebrate the yearly Feast of the Dedication of the Temple , at Jerusalem .

CHAP. XII . Whether yearly Feasts observed upon the dayes of Dedication of Christian Churches , be lawfull ?

THere are in the World some people , who by no meanes will allow of these anniversary Feasts , and rejoycings . Nor can the authorities before recited , any more move them , than skilfull Musique can move a log . So constant are they to their first thoughts , that they deeme it impossible for them to thinke better . They feare , they feare , lest they should be Jewes , or Gentiles , or they know not what , because the Jewes , and the Gentiles used to rejoyce , upon the like occasion . But , Duo cum faciunt Ter. Adelph . act. 5. sc. 3. idem , hoc licet impune facere huic , illi non licet . Two men may doe the same thing , the one may be guiltlesse , the other worthy of blame . The Gentiles and the Christians , may both rejoyce , the one at the Dedication of a Temple to Idols , the other at the Consecration of a Church , to the true God ; the one does what 's good , and just , the other commits an execrable thing , in the sight of God . And it shall fare with eithers joy , as with the two women , of which Christ speakes ( at the Mill about one worke both ) the one shall be received for pious and religious , the other shall bee rejected , as profane , and idolatrous .

And for Judaisme let them know , that the Feast of Dedication , was none of the ceremonies commanded that Nation to observe , but has its foundation in Nature . Indeed the ceremonies which properly appertaine to the Jewes , are utterly unlawfull for us Christians , to use : As for example , if any man should sacrifice the Paschall Lamb , ( as was once commanded the Jewes to doe ) he should make a protestation of a false faith , and by this sacrifice , plainely professe , that hee beleived not , that Jesus Christ our Saviour was yet come into the world , to save sinners , had not yet suffer'd death for our sinnes , nor risen for our justification . But the mirth and anniversary solemne joy , for the dedication of a Temple , is founded in Nature , and not of Gods immediate institution ; Salomon , Esdras , the Macchahees , by the instruction of Nature deemed it to bee meet , and fit , that when the Temple was finished , a publique joy should follow , as naturally all men rejoyce at the end of any great worke , and so oft as they remember it . And since every good subject will rejoyce on the birth day , and Coronation day of our Royall King : Why should a true Christian feare to rejoyce on that day , when a Temple , a publique good was brought forth , when a Church was Consecrated , and made holy .

But here they make another question , Whether the Church bee more holy , than another place ? And truly if by holinesse , they meane ( as mehaps they doe ) sanctity proceeding from divine grace , and the habit of Charity , &c. We answer , that it is no holyer than another place . But if they thinke it is not therefore holy , because it is Dedicated to the service of God , they are much deceived .

We read in the books of Leviticus , how that all things which were Lev. c. ult. dedicated to the service of God , are called holy to the Lord .

And that the Church is dedicated to God , hath beene all ready shewne . If the tythe of Bullocks and Sheep , Levit 27. 32. be holy to the Lord , because separated from the use and injury of secular persons , and reserved for the peculiar service of the Ministers of God , then certainely those buildings , which by the publique consent of all Nations , and in all things have beene accounted sacred , and are separated to the peculiar service of God himselfe , are by us to be esteemed holy and the foppish impiety of those that perswade the contrarie , deserves rather severe punishment than pittie .

Besides , the Church being a place in which God is after a more peculiar manner present , may well be called holy , God himselfe said to Moses , The place where Exod. 3 thou standest is holy ground , for God was in that place peculiarly present .

Further , well may the Church be called holy , it being the place of holy things , in it are the holy Sacraments , to it the Saints on earth frequently resort , and in it we beleive that the holy Angels are present .

Lastly , by the Law of contraries , it will follow , that as the Temples of Devils are to be accounted unholy and profane , as being polluted with the service done in them : So the Temples of the true God are most sacred , and holy , being sanctified by the Word of God and Praier .

CHAP. XIII . Of the ends , for which Temples were built .

IT is most certaine , that some Temples were built only to flatter great Kings , with the vaine conceit of a Deity . Wherefore Tiberius Caesar stricktly forbad , any Temple to be erected to him .

Other Temples were built to the honour of some famous men , zealous errour mistaking them to be Gods . The ends for which they were erected to the true God , may be foure .

First , to offer Sacrifice in them .

Secondly , to bee Sepulchers , and Repositories of the corps of his blessed Martyrs , untill the generall Resurrection .

Thirdly , to offer and present in them Prayers unto Almighty God .

Fourthly , that Christian people might meet together in one place , to heare the Word of God , and receive the Sacraments . Some adde to these a fift , viz. that the Divine Majesty might vouchsafe still to continue with us , and to dwell amongst us . Not as if they thought that the infinite Divine Nature could bee contained within the narrow walls of a Church , but according with that which Salomon said , 1 Kings 8. 13. when he had finished the Temple ; I have surely built thee a house to dwell in , a stedfast place for thee to abide in for ever . God , we piously believe , to bee in every place , but we cannot say properly , that he dwells in any place , but in his Temple . There , as in his Court and Palace he distributes his divine gifts and graces , to the hearts of his faithfull servants : there we more plainely behold his glory and majesty , in the statelinesse , and beautie of the building , in the richnesse of the sacred vessells and ornaments , the numerous multituds of his Servants , the various fruits of the blessed Sacraments , the dignity , holinesse , and sacred pompe of his Ministers .

Before the Temple was built by Salomon , God was not with his people in any one fixed or settled place . Moses Tabernacle was portable , and carried from one place to another , but when the Temple was built , and the Arke of God placed in it , God began to rest , and dwell amongst them , whence that of the Psalmist , Arise O God into thy rest , Psal. 132. 8. thou , and the Arke of thy strength .

Saint Hierome calls the Church , Hereditatem Dei , Gods portion , or inheritance ; nor shall any man escape his vengeance , that shall attempt to dispossesse him of it , nor shall their pietie be unrewarded which hath merited such an heire .

CHAP. XIV . How the whole world may bee said to bee a Temple .

HItherto of Temples built by men , as well Jewes , and Gentiles , as Christians , all which proclaime the Art , Magnificence , or Pietie of the builders . There are also Temples built by the powerfull hand of the Almighty Creatour , as the vast and the great Universe , what is it , but a Temple , according to which patterne , mortall men have corrected theirs , imitating its figure in their rotundaes , before spoken of . Diogenes saies plainely , Mundum Laert. in Vit. cjus esse Dei Templum sanctissimum : The world is the sacred Temple of God .

And the Persians , who worshiped the Sun for their God , are reported not to have built any Temple for it , saying , Mundum universum esse Strabo Lib. 15. illi Templum ; the whole Universe is his Temple .

The Bythinians , for the same reason offered Herodo . lib 1. their sacrifices on tops of Mountaines , instead of Altars .

And Tacitus writing of the Germans , saies , Nec cohiberi parietibus Deos , ex magnitudine Coelestium arbitrabantur . They were of opinions ( considering the hugenesse of the Heavens ) that God could not bee contained , within the compasse of any walls .

The old Romans worshiped their God Terminus , and divers other of their Gods In Temples open roofed , supposing it unfit to streighten their fancied deities within walls .

The Christians themselves have called the Universe , the Temple of Almighty God , though never guilty of that errour ( into which some blind Schismatiques and Heretiques have stumbled ) as to thinke that therefore no Churches ought to bee built , and had they power to their blind boldnesse , would soone pull them downe , and keepe their conventicles and assemblies in shops and cellars . Melius Graeci nostri , qui ut augurent Cicero . de legib. pietatem in Deum , easdem illum quas nos Vrbes incolere voluerunt : Much better did our fore-fathers , who for the encrease of Pietie and Religion , built Houses for God to dwell amongst us . Alas ! our memories ( especially in good things ) are too too weake , nor can we ( such is the course of our life here ) worship God decently , and duly enough , in every place .

The Primitive Christians , indeed called the Universe the Temple of God , because the tyrannies of the Gentiles , would not permit them to enjoy any other . Dei Templum est Vniversum , hoc quod cernitur vel quae latiores complectitur ambitus mens humana , nec aliquod his dignius Templum Deo Opt : Max : eirgi potest : The whole Universe ( were they wont to say ) is our Temple , or rather the soule of every Christian , is the Temple of his God , which is of larger capacity than the whole world : and more glorious Temples than these can no where bee builded , to our great and good God .

And well may the Universe be called a Temple , there has beene nothing said of Temples , but may very well bee said of it ; If they be called Temples , because they bee vast , and great structures , is any thing greater than the Universe , which conteines all things in its vast capacity . If Basilicae , from their state and majesty , how much better does that name fit the Universe , than with nothing more royall , It has the Firmament for its roof , the Starres for tapers , the Heaven for its Altar , Woods and Groves , instead of Tapestry hangings , and the Earth for its pavement , which God himselfe besprinckles with the dew of Heaven . If a Temple bee rightly defined , Aedificium Deo consecratum : The whole World was created for no other end , but for us , to serve and worship God in it . The Universe , saies Lessius , Lib. 4. de pers. div. ca. 4 is two waies conducing to our good , first it affords us dwelling , and all things necessary for this life , and so it is like a well furnished , and a spacious house , for man consisting of a body , needs a thousand corporeall helpes , to the sweet and pleasant leading of his life here .

Secondly , it is as a Temple to our soules , instructing them , in the knowledge of their Maker , declaring his power , wisdome . beauty , goodnesse , and other attributes : A humane soule , for whose sake all corporeall things were created , is of the very lowest degree of intellectuall creatures , and so weake of understanding , that without the helpe of our senses we understand nothing , wherefore it desires an union , and conjunction with our bodies , that by the helpe of our senses understanding sensible things , it may from them by diligent meditation , & serious discourse , come to understand its selfe , & its Creatour . And for this cause , God created not onely things necessary for the sustenance of humane life , but innumerable more things , by whose beauty , and splendour , wee may in some measure conceive , and know the excellency of our maker , and knowing him , may love , worship , honour , and give thanks unto him . The greatnesse of the Heavens , the vastnesse of the seas , and earth , shew his power and greatnesse ; the glory and splendour of starres , and pretious gems , what doe they to a considering soule , but set forth his beauty , and glory ? The curious subtilty in forming the limbs of each creature , declares his wisdome and perfection . The sure order , in the Heavens course , and motion , teaches us his providence . There is indeed nothing in the whole world that doth not mervellously instruct our minds in the knowledge of our Creatour : So that whatsoever could bee naturally known of God , was certainely knowne by the ancient Philosophers . For the invisible things of God , are made knowne unto us , by the visible creatures , and by the meanes of studious and diligent contemplation , as Saint Paul teaches : Invisibilia Rom. 1 enim ipsius , a creatura Mundi , per ea quae facta sunt intellecta , conspiciuntur .

For this end , therefore did God build this Temple , in it he dwels , Totamque infusa per artus , mens agitat molem : hee fils every part of it , and we are continually in his presence . The whole World is a Temple , to those that want a Temple ; no man for want of a Church , is excused from serving of God . The holy Hermits of old , spoken of by S. Hierom , viz. S. Anthony , Saint Paul , Hilarion , &c. though they lived in rocks , caves , and solitary places , yet were they never out of the Temple , still praising and worshiping God , and alwaies adoring his infinite Majesty .

When God had finished this Temple , for signe ( as it were ) of joy in the perfection of it , he blessed the day next ensuing , and made it an holy day ; giving us an example of rejoycing , at the Dedication of ours , every creature now began to worship God , in this Temple , so soone as it was made , onely wretched man profaned it .

CHAP. XV. How every particular Christian may bee said to be the Temple of God .

CLemens Alexandrinus Lib 7. ● . Strom. tels us , that every particular member of the Catholique Church , is a Temple of God built upon the foundation of Faith , Hope and Charity , rais'd not upon columnes of marble , or stone wals , but on fleshy hearts , far excelling that of Salomons , which was both made , and marred by the hands of mortall men .

Saint Angustin saith , our hearts are Gods Altars , Lib. 10. cap. 4. de Civi . Dei . on which we offer to him bloody sacrifices , when for his truth we suffer martyrdome : we offer sweet incenses to him , when our hearts are inflamed with pure and holy love .

Whence is that of Lactantius , Quid opus est Lib. 1. cap. 20. Inst. super vacuis extructionibus loca occupare , firmius & incorruptius templum est cor humanum , hoc potius ornetur , hoc veris illis numinibus impleatur . Why doe yee ( yee vaine Gentiles ) take such care in building Temples to your false Gods , and neglect the internall vertues , which dight the soule ; The soule of man is a most firme , and incorruptible Temple , let that bee beautified and adorned with graces : to what purpose are these vast heaps of stone erected , and no roome left for God in your soules ; these are the true Temples of the living God , which hee hath purchased with his most precious blood . Know yee not , saith S. Paul , that yee 1 Cor. 3. 16. 9. are the Temples of God , & God dwels in ye : and again , Dei aedificatio estis , ye are Gods buildings .

Saint Bernard teaches Serm. 1 de dedi . at large , how the soule of everie Christian may bee said to bee the Temple of his God . It is dedicated and consecrated in Baptisme , it is reedified by Confirmation and the holy Eucharist , &c. all to teach us how carefull wee ought to bee , lest we pollute and profane it , it behoves us often to remember Saint Pauls , Nescitis , quia Dei Templum estis , know ye not , that ye are the Temples of God , and if any man defiles the Temple of God , him will God destroy ; But if there were no other punishment than this , this sure is full of horrour , that we expell the holy Spirit out of our hearts , and entertaine the foule spirit in his roome .

CHAP. XVI . How the Body of Christ , and how the Blessed Virgin Mother , may be said to bee the Temples of God .

OF all Temples , these two are most transcendent , they are Christs owne words , Destroy this Temple , and in three daies I will raise it up againe : Iohn 2. 19. 21. and hee spake this of his body . In Salomons Temple at Jerusalem , all the while it was building , no saw , normallet was heard in it . And our Saviour is called the stone cut Dan. 2. 34. from the rock without hands . Verè , saith Saint Ambrose , verè Templum In Psa. 47. Dei , est corpus Christi , in quo nostrorum est purificatio peccatorum , verè Templum Dei , caro illa , in qua nullum peccati potuit esse contagium , sed ipsa pro delicto totius Mundi fuit sacrificium . Verè Templum Dei , caro illa , in qua Dei imago fulgebat , & corporaliter plenitudo Divinitatis habitabat : Well , well , might the body of our Saviour Christ , be called a Temple , by which wee are cleansed from our sins ; well might it be called a Temple , which was polluted with no sinne , but was offered a Sacrifice for the sin of the whole world : Well might it be called the Temple of God , in which the very image of God shined so bright , nay in which the fulnesse of the Deity dwelt bodily .

The other Temple , which may also be truly called a Temple , dedicated to God , is his most-chaste and immaculate Mother , the blessed Virgin Mary , of whose structure God himselfe tooke such care , that some of the Roman Church hold opinion , shee was not polluted with any , no not Originall sinne . Surely this Temple , was richly dect with all beauteous vertues , which God the Father from all eternity elected , and prepared for himselfe , which was over-shaddowed with the power of the Most-high , and in which for the space of nine moneths , the body of our blessed Saviour , really inhabited . And thus farre of Temples built by the divine Art of the most supreme Architect . Now let us returne to Temples built by mortall men : And first we will speake of them , whose founders might have deserved high , and eternall praise , had their knowledge of the true God , beene equall to their Art and magnificence , but instead of Dedicating these sumptuous buildings , to the honour of the true God , they most sacrilegiously devoted them to Devils , Idols , Crocodiles , Leeks and Onyons , and other most base and contemptible creatures .

CHAP. XVII . Of the multitude , and splendour of Heathen Temples .

ALl nations , from the beginning of the World , have beene naturally inclined , to build and adorne Temples , as if it were impossible for a humane life , to be lead here upon earth , without them : Si terras obeas , invenire possis Vrbes , Muris , Literis , Regibus , Opibus , numismate carentes : Gymnasiorum , & Theatrorum nescias , Vrbem Templis , Diisque carentem , quae praecibus , jurejurando , Oraculo non utatur , non bonorum causa sacrificet , non mala sacris avertat , nemo unquam vidit : If you travaile throughout the whole World , saies Plutarch , you may chance to come to some Cities , where there is no Learning , no Coyne , no Schooles , or publique Theaters , &c. but you shall never in all your travailes see a City hat has no God to worship , no kind of Temples , to serve him in : that offers no sacrifice to avert calamities , or thanksgiving for prosperitie . Amongst ▪ all nations some kind of Temple has been used : The barbarous Scythian is reported to have had a Temple dedicated to Mars , and in it Herodo . lib. 4. they stuck up a javelin , which they worshipt instead of his Image . Never any writ of any Nations , but have beene copious in describing their Temples , as who shall read Herodotus , Atheneus , &c. shall find . Reisnerus reports above Antiquit. Rom. li. 1. cap. 13. 400. Temples to have stood in old Rome , besides Lararia , and private places , in which they placed Images , sacred to their peculiar Gods . So that when Pyrrhus asked his Ambassadours , what they thought of the Citie , they answered , that Florus . lib. 1. 18 the whole City seemd to them to bee but one Temple .

Japan is said to have 13000 Temples , 3800 of which were built by one King , and 50 in one grove .

In Grand Cayre , as Ratzvill Epist. 3. de sua peregrin Hierosoly . reports , are 6800 faire and stately Mosques besides such as want turrets and roofes , of which there is no small number . But passing by the number , let 's speake of their splendour and riches , to the confusion of such who envie the cost bestowed on Christian Temples , when they shall see how farre the worshipers of Idols have exceeded our times in piety towards their false Gods .

The Aegyptians are Herodo . lib 2. N ▪ 4. said to have beene the first people in the world who had knowledge of the Gods . From them the Assyrians had their learning , who built the Temple to Hercules , in Tyre , to Venus or Astarta in Phoenicia , both admirable pieces of workmanship , but farre exceeded by that at Hierapolis , sacred to the Syrian goddesse Juno , which as Lucian thinkes , was built by Deucalion , immediatly after the flood ; the wals of it were covered with gold , the roof was massy gold , all glorious as the Sun : nor with lesse splendour were Temples built to Jupiter , Herodotus saith , that in his time there stood a Temple at Babylon , Dedicated to Jupiter Belus , of figure Lib. 1. cap. 181. square , each side conteining the length of two furlongs , in the middle of it arose a squaretower , the height of it one furlong , over it were built others lesse , to the number of eight : They went upon the out-sides by an ascent of staires , to the highest Turret , in which was a little Chappell , in it a bed richly furnished , and a Table of pure gold .

Memorable also is the glory of that Temple , in one of the Atlantique Islands , built of silver and gold , to the honour of Neptune and Clito. These feigned deities , were thought worthy of gold and silver ; but the true God , who gives all beauty and lustre to gold and precious stones is scarcely honoured , somewhere within stone walls .

Most admirable of all , was the Temple of Diana at Ephesus , it was accounted one of the wonders of the World : All Asia was busied two hundred Plin. lib 36. cap. 14. and twenty yeares in building of it . It had its foundation laid in a marish ground , the better to endure the injuries of earth-quakes , and to make the foundation firme , they first ramm'd into the ground great quantities of coales , upon which they spread fleeces of wooll . It was foure hundred twentie five and foot long , two hundred and twentie foot broad , it had a hundred and twenty seven columns , every one of which was the cost of a severall King ; each columne was sixty foot high , thirtie six of them were most exquisitely wrought and engraven , whereof one was the handiwork of Scopas , that excellent graver . The roof of it was of Cedar , the doores of Cyprus . This so stately and magnificent edifice , was burnt downe by one Herostratus , who was desirous to eternize Strabo l. b. 14. his name , by the infamy of his fact .

Amongst the Romans , the Capitol was famous , it was begun by Tarquinius Priscus by reason of a vow , which he made in his warres against the Sabines , and finished by Horatius Pulvillus the Cosul , when the government by Kings was changed : the foundation of it was laid very deep , it was eight acres in circuit , each side was two hundred foot long , and very neere as broad , the South-side was encompassed with three rankes of Columnes , the other sides with two ; within it were three Chappels joyned together by each the others walls , all covered with the same roof , the one sacred to Jupiter , the other on each side to Juno and Minerva : Whence that of Ausonius . Trina in Tarpeio fulgent consortia Templo . This Temple was consumed by fire , in the Civill warres , which were in Sulla's time , and after repaired by Vespasian , and Domitian ; it was of capacity to conteine 8000 or 10000 men , 12000 talents were spent onely in guilding of it .

The Pantheon ( though in time , yet ) in workmanship , nothing inferiour to the Capitol , was built by Agrippa the son in law of Augustus , who had thrice beene Consull . It is yet standing in Rome , and though it be spoiled of its ancient ornaments , yet is it highly honoured , in being Dedicated to the true God , and the memory of our blessed Lady , by Boniface the fourth . Such was the ancient beauty of this Temple that Pline Lib. 25. reckons it , inter pulcherima operum , amongst the most beautifull pieces in the whole World . And Sebastian Serly , a man very skilfull in Architecture , saith , it is the onely choice piece of perfect workeman-ship , his eies ever beheld . It was equally as broad as high ; In Trajans time it was fired by lightning , and reedified by M. Aurelius Antonius .

We read of divers other Temples amongst the Romans , of equall beauty and stately structure .

The great superstitious Temple amongst the Turkes , is that at Mecca , famous for Mahomets Tomb , of which Temple they have this tale in their learning , viz. Lonicer li. 1. ca. 17. that God commanded Abraham to build it , and that whosoever should repaire to it , confessing , and bawailing their sins , should receive pardon : Abraham straightway design'd the plot of it , and drew the limits of its foundation . And immediatly the mountaines , stones , timber , and all things necessary for the building came together of their owne accords , so that the draught and designe of it was all the trouble Abram was put to .

Ratzvill saies , that Epist. 3. he viewed all the cheif Mosques in Grand Cair , but entred into none , there is one ( saies hee ) which they call Giamalassar , much like the Cathedrall Churches of the Christians , there the Patriarch of the Turkes and the Santons dwell , it has eight courts , and is an Italian mile in compasse . Masfeius lib 1. hist.

The Malabars a people of India , worship an Idol which they call Parabramma , and say that he is the eldest God of all and that hee has three sonnes , to whose honour they we are three thrids tyed about their necks , they worship also divers beasts , to whom they build statly Temples , not any whit inferiour to ( if not exceeding ) the magnificence of the ancient Romans . Amongst which there is one dedicated to an Ape , and onely Apes are sacrifised in it , for which purpose they have adjoyning to it , a Porticu of wondrous length , to keepe Apes in for sacrifice . It is supported by 700 marble Columnes , equall in greatnesse to those of Agrippa , in the Pautheon at Rome .

CHAP. XVIII . Of the Magnificence of the Jewish Temples .

THe Pagans and Infidels were instructed by Nature , to build Temples , but the Jewes were commanded by God , and were not inferiour to any Nation , in the glory of their Temple . Salomon was a King so great and wise , as never any before him , nor since him was like unto him . Well might he therfore build the most excellent Temple in the World : It was a true Master-piece , not made after the manner of any before it , nor could posterity ever equall it . The situation of it , was upon Mount Moria , an exceeding high Mountain , as Ezech. speaks , cha. 40. It had foure Porches or Courts , into the first Court might any come , such women only excepted who by their Law were accounted uncleane . Into the second , onely the Jewes might enter ; into the third were such males admitted , as were clean ; And into the fourth came the Priests onely . The structure of it was all of square stone , yet no iron tooles , as saw or hammar was heard in it all the while it was in building . For the stones were all hewn , and perfectly fitted in the quarries , before they were brought thither , so that no great noise could bee made , some noise though very small , was made in the joyning and compacting the stones together , as Vatablas Josephus Hu : Cardinal : Cajetan , and others hold opinion . But that the tooles were made of brasse , and not of iron , is an opinion fond and ridiculous .

Infinite summes of Gold and Silver were left by King David , besides materials towards the building , eighty thousand Work-men , which were Proselites , wrought dayly in the quaries , seventy thousand Labourors carried the stones to convenient places ; thirty thousand Israelites Carpenters hewed wood in Libanas , besides innumerable multitudes of Tyrians , and by these guesse at the vast greatnesse of this Temple . Yet the time came when this so glorious Temple , had not one stone left upon another , but was quite destroyed , not according to the ordinary course and miserable condition of other humane things , to the greatest of which is denied eternity , but by the most just wrath of God upon that nation .

In Hierusalem were foure hundred & eighty Synagogues besides the Temple . And in other Cities and places also were many , for the Jews had a tradition , that where-ever ten men of Israel were , there ought to bee built a Synagogue .

Josephus tels of another Bell. Iud. l. 7 cap. 30. Temple , which the Jewes had in Egypt , called Onion , from Onia the High Priest , who in the time of Antiochus wars , fled to King Ptolomy , and obteined of him eighty furlongs of ground , at Heliopolis , whereon hee built this Temple , in manner of a Castle , with fortifications and bulworks on every side , for defence against the Schism of the other Jews , who dwelt at Hierusalem , and were much offended at the building of this Temple , contrary to their Law . Although the Prophesie of Isaiah was urged for it , viz. That a Temple should bee built in Egypt . But after the destruction of Jerusalem , this Egyptian Temple was shut up by the Roman governour , and no man suffered to enter into it .

Not long after the reedifying of Salomons Temple , by Esdras , the Samaritans built another Temple , in Mount Garizim , the chiefest Authour in the erecting of it , was Manasses , the brother of Jaddi the High Priest , who had married the daughter of Sanaballet , the Prince of the Samaritans , and Generall of the Persian Kings armies . He built it after the manner of the Temple at Jerusalem , and challenged to himselfe the honour of a new Priesthood , to whom divers factious people joyned themselves , Ioseph. 11. ca. 28 many holding to the High Priest at Jerusalem , many to Manasses , whereupon grew a great Schisme amongst the Jewes . The Samaritans polluted the true worship of God with idolatry . This Temple was afterwards demolished by John sonne of Simeon , & nephew of Hircanius , who slew the Samaritans who offered sacrifice in it .

We read of diverse other Temples built amongst the Jewes , Salomon is said to have built a Temple to the idol of 3 Reg. cap. 11. Moab , on a Mountaine right against Hierusalem ; he built also a Temple to Molech , the idoll of the sons of Ammon ; nay he built Temples for all his wives , which were of other Nations .

In the bookes of the 1 Mac. i. Macchabes , we read how Antiochus built Temples and Altars in Hierusalem to idols , and many of the Jewes consented to him ; nay , they not onely consented , but plainly betrayed the most sacred Temple , to the gods , or rather devills of the Nations , excluding the true God from amongst them , and thinking his onely Son , our blessed Saviour , when hee took flesh , and came amongst them , not onely unworthy of a Temple , but unworthy whom the earth should beare ; for with their grievous sins , they suffered grievous punishments , De bello Iudaico . and the Temple in which they were wont to glory , was utterly destroy'd , nor could ever since be re-edified , though attempted by Julian the Apostata , in dishonour and contempt Niceph. lib. 10. cap. 9. Antiqui of JESUS CHRIST , Anno Christi 363. For fire burst out of the ground , and burnt the worke men and their tooles , and earth-quakes fulfilling Christs prediction , shattered the very foundation of it all to pieces .

CHAP. XIX . Of the Builders of Christian Temples .

SAint Ignatius , that Ancient Father , equall in time to the holy Apostles , tels us , that Temples were erected by the Christians , at the very beginning of Christian Religion ; and wee read in Eusebius , of many Edicts set forth by the lib. 8. Heathen Emperours , for the pulling them down , and till others could bee built , the Apostles and primative Christians , were contented with Dining-roomes , in private houses , in stead of Temples .

Saint Cyrill saith , that Catech. 16. that place was a Church consecrated by the Apostles , in which they were assembled , when the Holy Ghost descended upon them , in the shape of cloven tongues .

And some thinke that Tursell . lib. 11. annal. the house in which the blessed Virgin Mother dwelt at Nazareth , was made a Temple , and consecrated by the Apostles : divers other Temples were built by other primitive Christians .

The Bishops of Rome , especially of old , having beene chief men in maintaining , and propagating Christian Religion , are known to have erected many . There is no Province in the whole Christian World , in which Churches have not beene built , by their order and appointment , and by the care and diligence of those Priests whom they sent thither to convert the Infidels .

And for other Bishops , though we know that all Temples receive their sanctity from them , at the Consecration , and therefore must needs owe their better part to them ; For the Architect can make but the walls , and the Bishop onely can make the Temple . Yet it is most certaine , that in old time , and now also many pious Bishops , and Prelats of the Church , have from the very foundation at their proper costs , and charges erected stately , and beauteous Temples , as sacred Folds to enclose , and feed the flock , committed to their charge .

The liberality and munificence of Kings , and Princes , in such structures is immense , and admirable , as of Constantine the Great , of Helen his mother , of Caesar , Justinian , and others , who succeeded them , and have shewne themselves as well heirs of their virtues , and religion , as of their Crowns and Kingdomes , in not onely fairely adorning , but almost filling their Empires and Dominions , with rich Bishopricks , stately Colledges , and most beautifull Temples .

And not onely Kings and Princes , but others also , of more inferiour rank , have aspired to such great and sublime designes , and would not by any meanes bee disswaded from it , well knowing , that they should not lose by it in this world , and in the world to come , should shine like most glorious starres , as having beene meanes by which sinners have beene converted unto God . They well considered , that the vanity and splendour of this world , would shortly vanish into nothing , wherefore they employed all their wealth , in such pious , and religious works , and now they enjoy permanent riches , and true honours in Heaven .

CHAP. XX. Of adorning Christian Temples .

AS Parents are not contented in the bare having of children , but they bestow costs in cloathing , and adorning them , lest their sordidnesse might be their disgrace : Even so godly Princes and other pious Christians , have not thought their liberall pieties extended farre enough , when the Temples have beene brought up to the very roofes , unlesse they beautified them with all kind of ornaments , that might adde glory and grace unto them , as curious paintings , hangings , guilding , sumptuous vestments , rich gifts in mony , chalices , plate , farmes , lordships , besides great priviledges and immunities .

Some men there are who envy the Ornaments of the Church , and grudg at any cost bestowed upon it , yet wee read in holy Scriptures , that God himselfe dictated to Moyses the ornaments of the Tabernacle , &c. And Saint Hierome reckons it not amongst the least of Nepotians In Epitaph . Nepoliani . Epist 3. ad Heliod . praises , that hee was solicitous that the Altar shouldlook bright , the wals should be without dust , or cobwebbes , the pavement cleane swept , and strewd with flowers , the Church porch bedecked with greene boughes . Nepotian ( saith hee ) was another Bezaliel , wondrous witty in contriving , what might be gracefull and beautifull to the Church . And surely if Wrastlers and Gladiators have their Amphitheaters , and Palesters , if the Senators have their Courts and Capitoll , if the Philosophers their Lycea , if mortall Princes have their Palaces , nay if every private man , hath his dwelling house dressed and adorned , with all the sweetnesse and beauty he can devise , what reason has any man to thinke , that the Temples of the Eternall God , should be base and sordid , or why should any man ( like that traitour Judas ) thinke all lost that is bestowed on Mat. 26. 8. him .

Herodotus tels of wondrous Lib. 1. 2. 8. &c. rich guifts sent to the Temple at Delphos , by the Gentiles , but compared with the oblations in Salomons Temple , they will seeme nothing , for which as Venerable Bede observes ; there were in the Temple two Treasuries , the In 12. Mat. one like a Chest , wherin they put the monies , which were offered for the uses of the Temple , of which Saint Marke speakes , And Jesus sate Marc. 12. 41. over against the Treasury and beheld how the people cast mony into the Treasurie , and many that were rich , cast in much , &c. The other was built like a great Hal , in the which , offrings of greater bulk were kept , and of this S. John seemes to speake ; These words spake JESUS Iohn 8. 20. in the Treasury in the Temple , &c. But neither Jewes nor Gentiles have exceeded the Christians in the Ornaments , and Treasure of their Temples ; nothing have ever beene more glorious than their Altars , than their Vestments , Chalices , and other Ornaments , as who shall read Anastasius , of the Anast . in vit. Po. in Silvest. almost prodigious munificence of Constantine the Great , will confesse ; and the like incredible liberality of others towards the Church , may Niceph. 14. 2. else-where be read .

CHAP. XXI . A decent forme of building and adorning a Church .

OUr age is very forward to good workes ( let some men talke what they will to the contrary ) and for their pietie in building repairing and adorning Churches , may compare almost with any former times , in the memory of man : More Churches have beene built , and adorned , in the reigne of our King Charles , than in the reigne of many Kings before .

But me thinks as in most of our other good works , so in this also the piety and devotion of well disposed minds , doe seeme some times to have wanted better directions . We have seene in some places , Churches newly erected , but the parts , forme , and situation , have beene so uncouth , that there has scarce beene any resemblance of a Church , no Religion in the whole fabrique . Wee have seene them painted , I cannot say beautified , but with such gaudy colours as can adde no ornament to so solemn & religious a place : For my part , I shall be ever farre from discouraging any , whose mindes God hath moved to so holy actions . I intend onely to set down what I conceive out of ancient Authors , and other observations , to be most gracefull and comly for such an Edifice , ever humbly submitting to the judgement and censure of my betters and those whom it more concernes .

For the situation Eastward , I shall need say no more , though even in that of late dayes some have failed ; I will onely adde , that it were very gracefull , that there should bee an ascent of steps up to the Church . That famous Temple of Saint Peters in Rome , which Sebastian Serly cals a wonderfull work , and the fairest in the whole World ; you ascend into it by many staires . Those quindecem Psalmi Graduales , which follow the 119 Psal. are said to have bin sung by the Levites , on the steps , as they ascended into the Temple , and thence had their name . And wee read , Acts 3. 1. that Saint Peter and John went up together into the Temple at the ninth houre of Prayer .

For the figure wee know that the Ancient Christians , had not alwaies one , but some times varied . Their rotundaes they borrowd from the Heathens , to whose service it was most agreable , for their Altars were plac'd in the middle of their Temples , and at their Sacrifices they danced round about them , singing Hymnes , and Songs , in praise of their Gods , to whom they sacrificed . The men in the sacrifices to Venus or Astarte , wearing womens garments , and the women at Mars's feasts , putting on mens armour . And this kind of superstitious idolatrie was in use amongst the Nations , in Moyses time , and was occasion of that Law , Deut. 22. 5. The woman shall not we are that which pertaineth to the man , neither shall man put on womans raiment ; as Aquinas 2. secundae quest. 102. Art. 6. and Mr. Selden , in his learned Tract de Diis Syris , excellently teaches us : This figure , I say , of Temples , was received by the Christians , in case of necessity , and was after , and may now very well be rejected , as not convenient for our service . Our Communion Tables , being now placed at the East end , close to the wall not to bee danced about , as in former times .

The best and most received figure is the long , and though some may thinke the broad square , the ovall , or round , more convenient ( as being of more capacity ) to heare Sermons , and Lectures , yet surely the Majesty and reverence of the place appeares not so much in them . And the man who enters the West doore from farre beholding the Altar where he seriously intends to offer his devotions to his God and Saviour , shall find his devout soule , more rapt with divine awe and reverence , more inflamed with pure and holy zeale , in the delay and late approach unto it , than if at first he had entered upon it .

Pillars in all other buildings , are very inconvenient in Churches , gracefull , stately and necessary , as well for supporting the roof , distinction of the Iles from the body of the Church , and different from profane buildings ; besides it has beene so received a manner of building , that to leave them out , savours too much of noveltie .

The Chancell or Quire , must bee higher than the body of the Church ; and in Cathedrall Churches , it has been an ancient custome ever since Constantines time , that vaults should be built under the Quire which were called Cryptae , in remembrance of those vaults , caves , and secret places , under ground , where the Christians in times of persecution , were wont to assemble to serve God ; such is St. Faiths under S. Pauls Church in London , which is now converted to a Parish Church .

The Chancell being divided from the Church by grates of wood , curiously carved , or of iron , or brasse cast into comly works , is not onely very gracefull , but according to the lawes and orders of building observed by the primitive Christians .

The place where the Communion Table stands , ought to be higher than the rest of the Chancell , but all this and more we see duly observed in the structure of Cathedrall Churches : For Parish Churches , and private Chappels , it were very meet that they should be built after the manner of Cathedrals , as neere as with convenience they may . When there are no Iles adjoyning to the body of the Church , Pilasters wrought into the wall , with well framed Capitals , would adde much beauty to the fabrique , & much strength to the wals , between which would bee convenient spaces to beautifie the Church , with some excellent paintings of Sacred stories , which may strike into the beholder , religious , and devout Meditations .

Over the Capitals according to the common rules of Architecture , must run an Architrave freeze , and Coronis , which every work-man knowes how to adorne with leaves and flowers , &c. according to the order of building . Over these , let the windoores be placed , which because they stand high differ more from profane buildings , keep our thoughts from wandring abroad , whilst our eyes have nothing but Heaven , and heavenly objects to behold , and besides cast an excellent light for the paintings on the wals .

The number of windoores ought to observe the grace of the whole structure , which if they be not of common glasse , but painted , adorne the Church with a glorious light , and moderate that bright light , which is a hinderance to devotion . The Utopian Temples , saith Sr T : More , were subobscura , some what dark : Nec id aedificandi inscitiâ factum sed consilio Sacerdotum , quod immodica lux cogitationes dispergit . For devotion requires collected spirits , which light diffuses , as Sir H : Wotton seems to interpret him in his Elements of Architecture . And we find it by experience , that in our light Churches , did not wee close our eyes , wee could hardly keepe our thoughts from distractions till the end of a short collect . And I verily believe that the holy fervour of devotion was more intense in the primitive Christians dark obscure vaults , than hath ever beene in our lightsome Churches .

The roof if it be vaulted , is more agreable to antiquitie , than if flat , it makes the voyce more audible ; you may adorn it with an azure colour , and gilded stars and then as in figure , so in colour it resembles the Hemisphear of the Heavens ; which perhaps gave occasion to S. Chrysost: to cal the Church οὐρανὸν ὲπίγειον , an earthly heaven .

The Chancel , as it has alwayes beene divided from the Church , so may the roof of it be of a different height , and more richly adorned , and the windoores of a differing fashion from the Church : That when we shall enter into this place , more holy & divine thoughts may possesse our minds , occasioned by the differing structure , and more glorious ornaments .

But of all parts of the Chancell , that where the Communion Table stands , has ever beene accounted most sacred ; In adorning that , no cost ought to be thought too much . There we behold the mystery of our Redemption lively expressed . Nor can we make publique profession of our Christian faith , hope , and love , any way so wel , as being studious in adorning the sacred Altars , did we verily believe Christ Jesus 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , to be truly present with us , so oft as the blessed Sacrament is celebrated ( as the ancient Liturgi . Chryso . Greek Church beleeved , and as he most certainly is , though the manner of his being there , we know not ) would Christians be so desperatly irreligious , to entertaine him , as the Jewish host did at his first comming , within bare wals , and on bare boards , or not rather in the most noble manner we could devise .

Hither bring your stateliest hangings , and adorne the wals ; hither your richest carpets , and bespred the ground ; [ hither the most glorious silks , and finest linnen , to cover the holy Table . The alacrity and ingenious piety of former times , in adorning this sacred place , makes us seeme dull , stupid , and irreligious .

In the French Canon Law . li. 1. cap. 146. Priests were commanded to exhort the women publiquely in their Sermons , to bestow fine linnen cloaths on the Altar . And truly if Ladies & Gentlewomen , were studious in working holy vestments , &c. as t is probable , that the blessed woman Dorcas did , Acts 9. 39. how much more acceptable would it bee to God , than in wearing those curious needle works , on their own backs ? what an honour would it bee to themselves ? what perfection to their art ? and whilst they strived to excell each other , what a godly contention , & happy emulation , would be soon stirred up in the whole sex ? and what a religious employment might they have , who now are feigne to visit each others , not knowing what else to do ?

CHAP. XXII . Of Burying in Churches .

THere is in use amongst Christians , a custome of burying dead bodies within the Churches , and erecting their stately Monuments for them , which is accounted a pious & religious custome , but being better thought on , may perhaps seem by the frequency and community of it , rather an abuse , and pollution of the sacred place .

The time was , when the corps of the dead were entomb'd in their private houses , & thence sprung the religious observations of the Lares , & Penates , 'mongst the heathen , but succeeding ages thought it to be consuetudinem foedam atque tetram , a foule and filthy custome . Nor would they permit any to be buried , so much as within the City wals ; Ne sanctis Municipiorum jus polluatur , saies the Law of the 12. Tables . And surely if a Corporation may bee polluted by burials ( either Physically , by the stench and loathsome vapours of the dead carcases infecting the aire , or Morally , by the the mixing Mortua Vivis : ) any man will easily think that a Temple may .

The Jewes buried their dead without the City , unlesse their Kings and Prophets , who were buried in the City of David , not in places of publique resort , but in private grots , and caves . And whereas we read 1 Sam. 25. 1. that Samuel was buried in his owne house at Ramah , the Geneva note tels us plainly it is meant among his own kindred .

The old Romans and Greeks also , buried without their cities , and there erected their Monuments before the Citie gates , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , saies S. Chrysost 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 That passengers might be put in mind of mortality ; as also , that the Citizens might with more enrag'd courage and alacrity , sally out upon their enemies , that should injure or violate the monuments of their Ancestors .

No Nation so barbarous as to fill the places where they worshipt , but a feigned divinity , with the carcases of their dead . The Turks are famous in all histories , for keeping their Moschits , free from the least pollution . So free are they from common burials , that it is not lawfull , for the Grand Signour himselfe , to bee there interred .

Abraham buried the holy woman Sara in a field , and was there buried himselfe , Gen. 25. 9. It was a Cave , where Lazarus was buried , whom Christ so loved , that hee wept when hee drew neere his grave , John 11. 38. The Widdowes son was carying out of the citie to buriall , Luke 7. 12. Our blessed Saviour himselfe , was entombed in a Garden , whose sacred corps , what Temple might not have beene proud to have contain'd .

Many holy Councels have forbidden , Ne corpora defunctorum intra Ecclesiam sepeliantur , that none should presume to bury within the Churches . But in processe of time , it was indulged to pious Emperours ( men that had fought the battailes of the Church , and had well deserved of her ) to bee buried in the Church porch . Afterwards to holy Bishops , & to other Clergy men of eminent , and remarkable sanctity , burial within the Church was permitted . After other men , famous and renouned , who had given great revenues to the church , were also buried in it . Lastly , all were suffered that would pay the fees . And S. Gregory in his Dialogues lib. 4. ca. 50. favours the custome very much , supposing that the kindred and friends of the deceased , seeing their Monuments , may bee put in mind to pray for their soules departed . And this truly may be a good reason amongst the Papists . But why wee , who call our Church the Reformed , and renounce all the errours and superstitions of Rome , should still so frequently , & for people of meane ranke or little desert retaine this , having no such religious pretence for it , truly I know not : I verily believe , had not custome so farre already prevailed , our Church would not permit it . I am sure that somewhere , great sees are demanded , onely to stop the passage from the heady and indiscreet multitude .

Some men surely , with an honest and good mind , have by this meanes desired to testifie to posterity , their certain hope of a joy full Resurrection ; and that as they lived in the unity , and faith of the Church ; so neither in death were they divided from her . Others , I feare are too too guilty of pride and vaine glory , who care not how much the Majestie of the sacred places suffer , so they may have their Tombes , their Armes & their Banners , ( Ensignes , of vanity and pride ) erected ▪ S. Chrysostome calls the Church , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the schoole of humility , and are not we mistaken , that thinke it , the onely fit place to display our pride .

CHAP. XXIII . Of the Priviledges and Immunities of Temples .

THe Priviledges , and Immunities that Temples have enjoyed , have added much honour , and ornament to them : amongst others , that they have beene places of refuge , which immunity consisteth in this ( as Navar Navar. Man . 25. 17. Can. in sum . juris . 3. tit. 42. and Canisius teach ) that any person guilty of any crime , and escaping to the Temple , might not bee halled from thence to punishment , or prison . Nay if the offender were in the Officers hands , leading him to punishment , yet escaping to so sacred a place , he might not be carried any further . Heretiques , Pagans , Jewes , publique robbers , and such as committed their offence within the Temple , were not suffered to enjoy these priviledges .

Nor were the Laytie onely prohibited , but Clergy men also , by an ancient Councell , were forbidden to pollute the holy Temple , by taking their Servants or Schollers from the Church , to which they flew , to escape punishment ▪ Quod si fecerit , saies the Councell , à loco cui honorem non dederit , segregetur , let him bee suspended , and cast out from that place , which he so lightly esteemed ; and indeed by this , and the like outrages of passionate men , the Majesty of the Sacred Temple , is not alittle violated ; this is 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Acts 21. 28. as the Scripture speakes , to he have your selfe in the Church no otherwise than in a common and profane house . Other priviledges which Almighty God hath honoured his Church withall , far exceed these ; he has pleased to grant to penitent sinners , that come thither , confessing , and bewailing their sins , forgivenesse of them , though they come as black as Ravens , they shall returne as white as Doves . He hath placed in it his holy Angels to be its guard , and at the ministration of the holy Communion , no man doubteth of their especiall attendance . Nay it hath pleased God to honour his Temple with miracles . Gregory Nazienzen tels of one wrought upon his owne Orat. 2. in laudem Sororis . sister , who was a woman ( saies hee ) so holy as blessed soules departed ; shee came into the Church , and leaning her head against the Altar , her eyes being full of teares , uttered these words , with a sweet confidence in her God , I will never depart one foot from this place , unlesse I be healed from my disease : and shee was immediatly healed ; thus he . But we must not therefore expect , the like miracles to be wrought in ours , Divina In Epist. ad cler. Hipp. voluntas , sicut hominibus , ita etiam & locis , pro suo libitu distribuit sanctitates & gratias , saies Saint Angustin ; God works miracles , when , and where hee pleases . He hath blessed our Temples , with what is greater than a miracle ; t is a harder thing to have the diseases of the soule , than of the body , healed . Repentance is the greatest cure that can bee wrought . It is a far greater miracle , for a sinner to be converted , than for water to bee turned into wine .

CHAP. XXIV . Of the right use of Temples , and how they are abused .

THose men surely make right good use of the Church , who make it the object of their bounty , and munificence in building , repairing , beautifying , or adding any ornament unto it . And the like doe they who often frequent it , confessing and bewailing their sins , receive the holy Sacraments , heare the Word of God , or doe any other Christian , and religious duty in it : The ancient Christians , when they came to any place , were wont first of all to visit the Churches , into which they entred with all reverent , and decent behaviour , humbly saluting the God of the Temple , by some devout prayer .

The holy Fathers , held their Councels and Synods , in the Temples .

So we read , that the Generall Nicen Councell was held in the chief Temple at Nice , &c. Euseb. de vit. Const. lib. 3.

In them also Kings , and Emperours , receive their Crowns , as it were acknowledging their honour to bee immediatly received from God .

But there is nothing so cleane , that we have not polluted , nothing so holy that our bold wickednes , hath not violated : The sacred majesty of the Temple hath experience of this truth which is abused and profaned , even by those men who by sacred office , are bound to reprove the abuses offered by others . Such are they , who serve themselves , and not the Altar , who seek riches , honours , ease , and pleasure in it , and not the glory of God , and the salvation of the soules committed to their charge .

And those who whilst they seeme to adorne Churches , doe vilely deface them with painting Lions , Unicorns , &c. in such uncivill and unseemely sort , that chast , and modest eyes , dare scarcely looke on them : Mehaps the Homily that speakes against outragious decking of Churches meanes this .

And those also abuse the Temple , who suffer it to bee foule and unclean , the sacred vessels to be base and vile ; who seldome come thither , as if it were only built for Swallows , & Sparrows to inhabit ; who doe not seriously confesse their sins , and intend to lead a new life , but come to the Church like men that enter into a bath , but wash not , returning fouler than they came , being infected with the soile , & filth of others . Those also are guilty of this sin , who come thither to shew their rich & sumptuous apparell , and new fashions , as it were presenting a show , in the theater : And those who behave not themselves in it , with all lowly reverence , as the holinesse and majesty of the place requires , and the examples of blessed Saints teachs us : S. Elizabeth , who was a kings daughter , is reported to have put off her Crown , when she entred into the Temple , saying , it was not decent for her to weare a crown of gold in that place , where her Saviour was presented to her , with a crowne of thornes . We read of divers , whom God hath most severely punished for abusing his Temple : S. Chrysostom Orat. in Gentil . has this story of Julian , and Felix , who somtimes were Christians , but for the favour of Julian the Emperour , forsooke Christ . These men by the command of the Emperour , entred the Temple built by Constantine at Antioch : Julian contumeliously polluted the Altar , and with contempt sate down upon the sacred vessels ; Felix seeing the rich Ornaments of the Church , look ye ( quoth he ) with what state Maries Son is served ; But Julians bowels shortly after rotted , and his excrements came forth at his mouth , and Felix miserably died , streames of blood issuing out of his blasphemous mouth . Many other lamentable stories might bee recited of others , who have wronged and abused the sacred Temples , or any way violated them , by taking away their possessions . So true is that of the Apostle , 1 Cor. 9. Hee that destroyes the Temple , him will God destroy .

CHAP. XXV . Of the rewards which such receive , who build and adorn Churches .

IF that man that for Gods sake gives but a cup of cold water , shal receive a reward ; Lord ! what reward shall they receive whose pious munificence has erected or adorned a Temple ? Whilst they live here great honours shall seek and find them ; and sacred History shall ( for the ioy and delight of all future ages ) embalme them with the precious oyntment of a good name .

When the royall deeds of our deere Soveraignes blessed reigne , shall be delivered to posterity , his magnificent piety , his care and religious diligence in building & adorning sacred Temples , must needs take up a great part in the story .

Who knowes whether this little Treatise , plus uno maneat perenne saeclo , ( may after a long and vile neglect ) be again brought to light and perpetuate the honorable acts and pious munificence of Sr Paul Pindar , at whose sole costs and charges a great part of that ancient structure dedicated to the memory of S. Paul in London , was repaired , the Quire beautified with guildings , and paintings , and stately adorned with rich hangings . The parish Church where he dwels , and other private Churches , greatly enriched by his bounty . Nor shall the piety of Sr Jo: Wolstenholm , ever be forgotten , who at the pious request of the yong Knight his son , hath adorned Stanmore , the place of his birth , with a beautifull , and comely Church , erected from the very foundation , at his great cost .

Little did that good Euseb. 10. c. 4. Bishop Paulinus , Bishop of Tyre , by whose meanes and procurement , the famous Temple at Tyre in Phenicia was built ; little , I say , did he think , that the whole current of the Oration should be diverted to him , when in the solemne assembly of many other Bishops , the Preacher began thus : O ye friends and Priests of the most high God , which are beautified with holy robes , and the heavenly crown of glory ; And thou the ornament of the new and holy Temple , to whom God himselfe hath granted this great honour , that thou shouldst on earth build his house : well may we call thee another Beseleel chief builder of Gods Tabernacle , a Salomon , a new Zerobabel , who hast added greater glory to the Temple than it had before , &c.

We read of memorable victories obteined by such men , as have beene builders of Temples . Justinian the Emperor ( as is by some observed ) recovered all Asia , formerly lost by the Romans , shortly after hee had dedicated a Church , to the memory of our blessed Lady .

It may seeme strange to some , that we should put riches among the rewards which builders receive ; for it has ever beene a common opinion , that building is the speediest way to waxe poore , but it fareth other wise , with such as build Temples , themselves have confest , that their riches have not decreased , the more they dedicated to God , the richer still they grew .

The pious Lady Helena , mother to the Emperour Constantine , built many Churches : Yea , even in her old age , shee undertooke a religious journey to the holy Land for the same purpose , and there erected two Temples , to the honour of God , the one at Bethlem , the other upon the Mount of Olives ; & certainly God rewarded her according to her works . She lived alwaies in great happinesse and prosperity , to the age of 80 years , and then in the presence of her son , who was the most potent Prince in the whole world ; amidst her grand-children sprung from Royall blood , she expired her blessed soule in such a happy manner , that it could not be esteemed a death , but rather a changing of a fraile mutable life , for eternall and celestiall glory .

Many more rewards , doe they receive in this world , as health of body , a quiet and happy life , adorned with chastity , and all other virtues , and lastly , a most blessed death , after which they doe receive eternall and unspeakable joyes .

THE END .