Jan Huet

Jan Hus (c. 1369 – July 6, 1415), also known as John Huss, was a Czech theologian, philosopher, master, reformer, and preacher. He is considered a key predecessor to the Protestant Reformation of the 16th century.

Born in Husinec, Bohemia (present-day Czech Republic), Hus became a priest and later rector of Charles University in Prague. He was deeply influenced by the writings of English theologian John Wycliffe, particularly Wycliffe's criticisms of the Church's wealth and corruption.

Hus advocated for reforms within the Catholic Church, emphasizing the authority of the Bible and the importance of preaching in the vernacular language. He criticized the sale of indulgences and questioned the authority of the Pope. His teachings attracted a large following, particularly among the Czech population.

In 1414, Hus was summoned to the Council of Constance to defend his views. Despite promises of safe conduct, he was arrested, tried for heresy, and condemned. He refused to recant his beliefs and was burned at the stake on July 6, 1415.

Hus's execution sparked widespread outrage in Bohemia and led to the Hussite Wars. His followers, known as Hussites, defended their religious freedom against repeated crusades launched by the Holy Roman Empire. The Hussite movement played a significant role in the development of Czech national identity and foreshadowed the later Protestant Reformation.

Hus is remembered as a national hero in the Czech Republic and a martyr for religious freedom. His legacy continues to inspire reformers and those who advocate for social justice. His writings include "De Ecclesia" (On the Church) and "De sex erroribus" (On the Six Errors).