The Broom
Author: Luiken, Jan, 1649-1712
Image Title: The Broom
Scripture Reference:
- 2 Peter 3 (further images / scripture text)
Description: Just as the home is swept clean in preparation for guests, so should all devote themselves to the preparation of a pure heart and a clean soul for the judgment of God (2 Peter 3:11-12). The Dutch artist and poet Jan Luiken (1649–1712), whose initials are at the lower right, was responsible for drawing and etching this emblem and wrote the accompanying poem.
Motto: Away with dust and dirt.
Poem:
If one merely expects an honest Man,
One sweeps the house with a broom:
How then is the Heart found in such a state?
That true Home in which the Soul,
Now for many years has dwelt,
In filth and dust of sins!
Thus, upset and unprepared,
Is that highest Majesty expected,
Who can test Hearts and Souls,
While one sits idle,
What base carelessness is this!
How far does this differ from what is needed!
Wake up from that apathy, sluggish Soul,
Before disgrace and harm overcome thee.
(Translation by Josephine V. Brown, with editorial assistance from William G. Stryker)
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