The purpose of writer’s article was to research Kashubian texts that reference the Book of Genesis or its parts

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to study Kashubian texts in which we can find references to the Book of Genesis or its parts. The author states that the Book of Genesis was present in Kashubian texts as early as in the 17th century when three extracts were translated from German by Michael Pontanus, and its presence has recently increased though Professor Friar Ryszard Sikora’s first, integral translation of the Book into Kashubian in 2015. The author has analyzed both popular science and literary publications to determine that the text of the Book of Genesis is rarely used by Kashubian authors. Moreover, references usually occur in humorous prose only. As proof, there are quotations provided from the works written by Florian Ceynowa, Hieronim Derdowski and Aleksander Majkowski. It is also asserted that Kashubian poetry seldom recalls the Book of Genesis as well, but when a reference appears, the context is usually much more serious. If the reference is used in a poem, it is treated as a tool to evoke a profounder meaning through the biblical imagery. Furthermore, in his analysis of the two books of prayer written by Priest Marian Miotk, the author has found out that the Book of Genesis is mentioned just once, in the story of Abraham. The author also discusses the results of his research on popular science articles published in Zwónk Kaszëbsczi by students attending the Higher Seminary of Priesthood in Pelplin. In the series of articles entitled Jak czëtac Knégã Pòczątków, those students explain some parts of the Book of Genesis. The author further recalls Prof. Fr. Sikora’s translation of the Book of Genesis, especially his notes. In addition, he mentions Aleksandra and Dariusz Majkowski’s Mòja pierszô Bibliô. Stôri Testament w Òbrôzkach (Gdańsk, 2014), a book in which fourteen of thirty-nine, illustrated, Old Testament stories are focused on events described in the Book of Genesis.