I entreat masters to live a good life and faithfully to instruct their scholars, especially that they may love God and learn to give themselves to knowledge, in order to promote His honour, the welfare of the state, and their own salvation, but not for the sake of avarice or the praise of man.

The quote by Jan Hus emphasizes the moral and spiritual responsibilities of teachers or masters. Hus urges them to not only live a good life themselves but also to faithfully instruct their scholars. The goal of education, in his view, should be to foster a love for God and a genuine pursuit of knowledge. This knowledge, however, is not meant to serve selfish ambitions but rather to promote God’s honour, the welfare of the state, and the salvation of individuals.

The deeper meaning of this quote lies in Hus’s belief that education should be rooted in virtue and faith. He warns against pursuing knowledge for avarice (greed) or for the empty praise of man. Instead, he frames learning as a sacred duty, intertwined with both personal integrity and the greater good of society. Hus connects the moral development of individuals with the health of the state and the spiritual salvation of humanity, reflecting a holistic view of education’s purpose.

The origin of this quote comes from Jan Hus, a Czech priest, philosopher, and early Christian reformer of the 14th–15th century. Hus was a key precursor to the Protestant Reformation, advocating for reform within the Catholic Church and challenging corruption. His ideas about education and moral responsibility were deeply influenced by his religious convictions. He was later excommunicated and burned at the stake in 1415 for heresy, but his teachings continued to inspire reformers like Martin Luther.

In essence, Hus’s statement reveals a vision of education as a sacred and transformative practice. It calls on educators to act not only as transmitters of knowledge but also as models of virtue and faith, shaping students who will contribute to both society and the spiritual good of humanity. His legacy underscores the enduring link between moral responsibility and the pursuit of learning.