Christianismi Restitutio

Christianismi Restitutio (The Restoration of Christianity) is a significant work in the history of medicine and theology, written by Michael Servetus in 1553. This book is notable for its early description of the pulmonary circulation of the blood, a discovery that challenged the prevailing Galenic physiology and contributed to the development of modern anatomy and medicine. However, the primary focus of Christianismi Restitutio was theological, aiming to reform Christianity by rejecting the concept of the Trinity and advocating for a return to the beliefs and practices of early Christians.

Background

Michael Servetus, a Spanish physician and theologian, was deeply involved in the religious controversies of the 16th century. His critical views on the Trinity and infant baptism, among other doctrines, put him at odds with both the Catholic Church and the Protestant Reformation leaders, including John Calvin. Christianismi Restitutio was Servetus' most comprehensive work, encapsulating his theological views and his groundbreaking medical discoveries.

Content

The book is divided into several parts, covering a wide range of topics from theology to medicine. The most historically significant section describes the pulmonary circulation, where Servetus correctly posited that blood flows from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs before reaching the left ventricle. This discovery was revolutionary, as it corrected the ancient belief that blood passed directly between the ventricles through invisible pores in the septum.

In theology, Christianismi Restitutio calls for a radical reform of Christian doctrine and practice. Servetus criticized the doctrine of the Trinity as unscriptural and argued for a return to the simplicity of the New Testament teachings. His views were considered heretical by both Catholic and Protestant authorities, leading to his persecution and eventual execution.

Impact

The publication of Christianismi Restitutio had profound implications for both medicine and theology. In medicine, Servetus' description of the pulmonary circulation laid the groundwork for later anatomical discoveries and is considered a milestone in the history of cardiology. In theology, his rejection of established doctrines and call for reform contributed to the broader Reformation movement, despite his ultimate rejection by mainstream Protestant leaders.

Servetus' work was suppressed following his execution, and most copies of Christianismi Restitutio were destroyed. However, the few surviving copies ensured that his medical discoveries and theological ideas continued to influence future generations.

Legacy

Today, Christianismi Restitutio is recognized as a pioneering work in the history of medicine and a significant, though controversial, contribution to Christian theology. Michael Servetus is remembered as a martyr for religious freedom and a pioneer in the study of human anatomy.