The Book of Hours is a devotional book that became popular during the Middle Ages. It is a collection of prayers, psalms, and other religious texts, usually accompanied by beautifully illuminated illustrations. This guide will provide an overview of the Book of Hours and how it was used.
History
The precursor to the Book of Hours can be traced back to the 4th century when Christians started adopting a regular schedule for prayer. However, it wasn’t until the 13th century that Books of Hours began to appear in their current form.
The popularity of these books grew rapidly in Europe during the late Middle Ages and Renaissance periods. They were typically owned by wealthy individuals and nobility who could afford luxurious manuscripts. Many Books of Hours were personalized with added illustrations or family crests.
Contents
The core content within a typical Book of Hours includes:
- A calendar listing important holidays and saints’ days
- Penitential Psalms, which are seven psalms expressing sorrow for sins committed
- Litanies – prayers addressed to various saints for intercession with God
- Biblical passages such as The Office Through All Seasons
- Prayers for different times throughout the day (known as ‘hours’)
- Morning prayers (Matins) .
- Noonday prayers (Sext) ( removed).
- Evening prayers (Vespers) ( removed).
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