Chapter II: Part 2

We have intimated our conjecture concerning the originall of the _Laps_, and more then that it will be hard to produce, there being no sober history which gives testimony in this affair. Negatively we may pass sentence, and conclude they were not _Swedes_, no People differing more both in constitution of body and mind, in language and habit, or whatever else is taken for a character of likeness, or having the same originall. Neither can any one think that they were ever _Russians_ or _Moscovites_; seeing they differ as much from them, as from the _Swedes_. The _Russians_ are generally tall, the _Laplanders_ on the contrary very short; those are fat and corpulent, these lean and slender; those have thick hair, long beards, and good complexions, these wear their hair short and thin, and are dark and swarthy. But most of all the language is different, in which the _Laps_ and _Russes_ have in a manner no kind of agreement. They must then come from their Neighbours, either the _Norwegians_ on the one side, or the _Finlanders_ upon the other. But they could not well be derived from _Norway_, who are known to have drawn their originall from the _Swedes_.

It remains therefore that they came from the _Finlanders_, who have a certain division or allotment called _Lappio_. But tho we have shewed that the name and originall of this Nation is not taken thence, it is not to be doubted that they are of the race of the _Finlanders_ and _Samojedes_, and this is the opinion of most learned men, which may be farther proved by many arguments. First the name of both Nations is the same, the _Laplanders_ in their own language being called _Sabmi_ or _Same_, and the _Finlanders_ _Suoni_, which two differ only in the Dialect; and there is a tradition that they had both the same Founder _Jumi_, who could not well have bin the Author of diverse Nations. We may also observe that their languages have much affinity, tho they be not the very same, as shall be proved at large in a particular Chapter. The _Finlanders_ call _God_, _Jumala_, the _Laplanders_, _Jubmal_, the _Finlanders_ fire, _Tuli_, the _Laplanders_ _Tolle_; they call a hill _Wuori_, these _Warra_, and so they agree in many other words. Besides they have bodies and habits alike, both their limbs well set, black hair, broad faces, and stern countenances, and whatever else they have different is very small, or may easily proceed from their diet or Clime, in which they live. Their clothes too are not much unlike; for if we compare the Picture of an ancient _Finlander_, as it still remains in the Church of _Storekyr_ in _Ostrobothnia_, where the slaughter of Bishop _Henry_ was drawn at large, with mine of a _Laplander_ in Chapt. XVII. it will appear there is no great difference between them. Lastly they agree in disposition and humor: they are both much given to laziness at home, unless when necessity urges them to work; both, unmoveable from their purpose, both superstitious and lovers of Magick. And therefore _Ol. Magn._ saies of them both, that they were so skilfull Magicians in the time of their Paganism as if they had had _Zoroaster_ himself for their teacher. In a word whatever _Tacitus_ saies of the _Finlanders_, now holds true of the _Laplanders_, that _they have neither weapons, horses, nor houshold gods, they live upon herbs, are cloth’d with skins, lie upon the ground, putting all their confidence in arrows, which they head with bones for want of iron. Both the men and women support themselves by hunting, and they have no other defence for their Children against the violence of wild beasts or weather, but Huts or hurdles, which are the security of the old men as well as young._ And the same Description which _Saxo_ gives of these, belongs as well to the _Laplanders_, that _they are the farthest People towards the North, living in a Clime almost inhabitable, good archers and hunters, wanderers, and of an uncertain habitations, wheresoever they kill a beast making that their mansion, and they slide upon the snow in broad wooden shoes_. Besides all this, the _Norwegians_ and _Danes_ call the _Laplanders_, _Fenni_, as may be seen in _Petr. Claud._ where he divides the _Finlanders_ into _Siofinnar_, i. e. maritime _Finlanders_, and _Lappefinner_; i. e. _Lappfinlanders_, the same with the _Laplanders_. This may be collected too from the _Russians_ calling them not only _Lappi_, but _Kajienni_, the original of which name can be no other but that they esteem them to be the _Cajani_, of which name there is a Province now in _Finland_ called _Cajania_ the great.

But here some imagine that the _Laplanders_ came not in probability from the _Finlanders_, because the one are very warlike, the other cowards, these fat and corpulent, those lean and meager. But this doth not at all invalidate our arguments; for every one knows that diet will much alter the habit of the body, and the _Finlanders_ have plenty of good nurishing meats, of which the _Laplanders_ are quite destitute. And for the _Finlanders_ courage in war, heretofore they were not so notable for it, for _Tacitus_ saies _they had neither arms nor horses_, by which he implies they knew not at all what belonged to war. Neither are they very expert at it yet, for by daily experience ’tis found when they are likely to be prest for Soldiers they hide themselves, and by all means decline employment, therefore they are not warlike from their nature, but from their discipline and arts, and in their natural temper they differ not much from the _Laplanders_. But what need we go about to prove this by so many arguments, when they confess themselves they are originally sprung from the _Finlanders_, and still keep a list of the Captains that first led them forth into _Lapland_, of whom _Mieschogiesch_ is the chief. The same is confirm’d by _Andr. Andresonius_ who lived there, and learn’t it from them, only that he said _Thins kogreh_ was the cheif Captain, and so doth _Zachar. Plantin_. But whatever is said of either of these two Captains, we are not to imagine that they brought the first Plantation of _Laplanders_ into this Country, for ’tis not probable they should so long remember their names, who must have lived before _Saxo_, for he mentions this Country, and lived about 480 years before us, at which time the _Finlanders_ themselves scarce know what was done, much less the _Laplanders_. And this the name _Thinns_, doth something prove, which none shall perswade me to be an old _Finland_ word, for it is the same with the _Swedes_ _Thinnis_, and the Dutch _Thinius_, i. e. _Antonius_, and that the word _Antonius_ was known to the _Finlanders_ before _Christ_ no man will suspect. The same may be said concerning the pretended occasion of the Colony of _Finlanders_ setling in _Lapland_; for they themselves say, that they left _Brokarla_ and _Rengoarvis_, because they were opprest with taxes and pitcht first in a wood in _Ostrobothnia_ called _Tavastia_ near the _Bodic bay_. But all this, as hath bin shew’d the very name of _Lappi_, which signifies banish’t persons, sufficiently confutes. _Plantin_ and _Peter Nieuren_, pretend that though the _Laplanders_ voluntarily removed to _Tavastia_, they were forc’t to their present habitation: for the Natives of _Tavastia_, griev’d to see them in a florishing condition, wearing rich clothes, fareing deliciously, and abounding in all manner of wealth, chose them a Captain called _Matthias Kurk_, and with a great number invaded their quarters, killing and plundering all they met with, not desisting till they had quite drove them as far as the Rivers _Kimi_ and _Torne_: and not long after perceiving they lived too happily there, they set upon them the second time, dealing so cruelly with them, that leaving their Cattel they were forc’t to fly into those barren Countries they now inhabit, carrying with them only their nets. _Plantin._ adds further that _Andr. Andresonius_ affirms he saw some ancient letters, in which mention was made of _Kurk_ a Governour of the _Laplanders_: but as for his other name of _Matthias_, it is plain it was postnate to Christianity, since which time if we should imagine the _Laplanders_ first to have come into these parts, we must also suppose the Country to have bin till then uninhabited, whereas we have all reason to believe that the _Biarmi_ and _Scridfinni_ lived here before _Christ_, the latter of which seem by their name to have bin only a Colony sent out of _Finland_: and mention is made of _Finlanders_ in these parts in the time of _Harald_ the fair, or _Harfager_ King of _Norway_, and his Son _Ericus Bodsexe_, who lived long before the times of Christianity, and went down into _Finmark_ and _Biarmia_, and obtained a great victory over them. Now if he went by Sea Northwards of _Norway_ to come to _Finmark_, _Finmark_ then must have bin near _Norway_, as lying North of it near the Sea, that is the same Country that is now named _Finmark_, which because then inhabited by _Finlanders_, as appears by the name, it is not to be believed that it was first possess’t by the _Laplanders_ that were drove out of _South-Bothnia_ by _Matthias Kurk_. Neither are they called _Lappi_ from being driven out then, for they were so called in _Saxo_’s time, and there is little reason to believe that _Matthias Kurk_’s expedition was before him, especially from that inscription which mentions _Kurk_, since that in those times they knew not so much of writing as to record any thing in it.

Wherefore we must find out some better authority to confirm to us the originall of the _Lapps_, for we may believe that the _Finlanders_ more then once march’t out into _Lapland_, which is evident from the several names of their leaders, whom some called _Thinns-Kogre_, others _Mieschogiesche_. The first and most ancient is that from whence the _Biarmi_ took their originall, whom I conclude to have descended from the _Finlanders_, from calling their Gods by _Finlandish_ names. Besides in their nature and manners they agree with the ancient _Finlanders_: and lastly are called by all Strangers _Scridfinni_, i. e. _Finlanders_ going upon frozen snow, which, the ancient knowing none else to go so, took to be the _Biarmi_. But the name of _Biarmi_ was given them by the _Finlanders_ from their going to dwell upon the Mountains, from the word _Varama_, which signifies a hilly Country: now because Strangers knew from the _Swedes_ they used wooden shoes to go upon the snow, which by the _Swedes_ are called _Att Skriida_, not knowing the name _Biarmi_, they called them _Scridfinni_: and because the _Finlanders_ and _Biarmians_ were of the same originall, they were often subject to the same Prince, as to _Cuso_ in King _Holters_ time. What the occasion was of this leaving their Country is yet doubtfull, except it was for fear of the _Swedes_, who in the reign of King _Agnus_ invaded _Froste_ King of _Finland_, and harassed the whole Country. The second time of deserting their Country was when the _Russians_ enlarged their Empire as far as the lake _Ladog_. For fearing the cruelty of these People they retired into _Lapland_: which I am apt to beleive because the _Russians_ call them _Kienni_, as has bin said before from their passage through _Kajania_ into _Lapland_, which they could not have known but by their own experience; and their wars with them, especially those of _Carelia_ and _Cajania_ being so ignorant both in history and other Countries, that they scarce know any thing of their own, that is of any antiquity. And this proves what we have said of their second leaving their Country, which was about the 6^{th} age after _Christ_: and these perhaps are they which are simply called _Finni_ by the _Danes_, _Swedes_, and _Norwegians_, or with the addition of _Siæ_ or _Field_, obsolete words of the _Biarmians_, because they were more then they in number, especially after _Harald Harfiger_ King of _Norway_, who almost destroyed all the _Biarmi_ in battle. In the mean while the _Finlanders_ lay secure in _Finmark_, and all the _Biarmi_ being extinct, the name of _Finni_ obtained, and the name and credit of the _Biarmi_ was quite abolish’t and forgot. And these are all the times they left their Country before they were called _Lappi_, for till after this they were never called otherwise than _Finni_, _Scritofinni_, and _Biarmi_. But in after ages we find them named _Lappones_, of whom _Adam. Bremensis_ makes no mention who lived in 1077, but _Saxo_ doth, that lived in 1200; and therefore ’tis probable that in that intervall of time, after they were call’d _Lappones_, they made their third migration. But any one that will examine the histories of that time, will scarce find any thing that should move the _Finlanders_ to leave their Country, as _Ericus Sanctus_ hath made it appear in that Expedition in which he brought them under the _Swedish_ Government, and planted among them the Christian Religion, which he made in the year 1150, when no small number of them the third time seem to have deserted their Country, and gone into _Lapland_. And the reason is plain, having bin subject’d to Strangers, and forc’t to be of a Religion different from that of their Ancestors, which thereupon was hatefull to them, and therefore no wonder some of them sought out a place where they might live free: which is as good a reason too why they were called _Lapps_ by those that stayed, for they submitting to the _Swedes_, and embracing Christianity, look’t upon them as desertors of their Country, whom fear only of a good Government, and better Religion, had made exiles, especially when the King had put forth an Edict that all should be accounted banish’t that would not renounce Pagan Superstition; therefore they were justly called _Lappi_, and care not to hear of the name to this day.

And this is my opinion of their originall and migrations, out of which I shall not be perswaded by those learned men who believe they rather came from the _Tartars_, for we never read of any of them going into the North. Moreover the _Tartars_ live altogether by war and plunder, whereas the _Laplanders_ live by hunting and grasing, abhorring nothing more than war. Besides the cheif delight of the _Tartars_ is in having many stately Horses, of which the _Lapps_ are so ignorant, that in their whole language they have not a word to signify an Horse: the language also of the two Nations is so different that one cannot possibly be derived from the other. And altho some learned men, who pretend they understood both languages of _Finland_ and _Lapland_, confidently aver that they are altogether diverse: yet it will be easy to produce diverse men as well skill’d in them, as they that say the contrary. Besides ’tis no consequence because there are a few differences between the _Finland_ and _Lapland_ languages, that they are therefore utterly diverse, when this disagreeing may rather proceed from the length of time than any diversity of the Tongues at first, as we find now many _Swedish_ words that do not at all agree with those now in vogue, which yet do not constitute a new language. And their saying the _Laplanders_ could not come from the _Finlanders_, because they alwaies hated one another, is of little force, when the reasons of their hatred are enough explained already. But it signifies less that the _Finlanders_ have severall Customs and Manners not in use among the _Laplanders_, as the way of building houses, _&c._ for these were to accommodate themselves to the nature of the place whither they came, and to forget those things which would not be of any use to them. And moreover, there remains still a memoriall of those that came out of _Finland_, where they first sate down in the woods of _Tavastia_, near a Lake which they call _Lappiakairo_, that is the Fountain of the _Laplanders_, who when their necessary food grew scarce, went further up into the Desarts, and the _Finlanders_ pursuing them in _Tavastia_, they retreat’d to the _Bothnic_ bay, where they might be more safe, and have more conveniences for living: and this is that migration yet in memory which _Plantin._ speaks of, _viz._ that the _Laplanders_ lived here for an age, or more, till the time of King _Magn. Ladulaos_, An. 1272, who to get them under his subjection, promised any one that could effect it, the Government of them, which the _Birkarli_, _i. e._ those that lived in the allotment or division of _Birkala_, undertook; and having for a great while cunningly insinuated themselves into them, under a pretence of friendship, at last set upon them unawares, and quite subdued them. But before this they were infested by the _Tavasti_ under the command of _Kurk_, which if we would strictly examine, we should find it of later date than about Christs time, contrary to some mens opinions. As it happens in things that are taken upon trust, the _Laplanders_ confound the more modern with the ancient, making but one history of all that happen’d in the distinct times of _Ericus Sanctus_, _Magnus Ladulaos_, with some other Kings before and after, and that so confused and lame, that it is hard for any one to understand it. _Ol. Petr._ mentions at large one _Matthias_, Captain of the _Finlanders_, when they subdued and drove out the _Laplanders_ into the furthest and most desolate place of the North, whom some think to be a noble Family of the _Kurks_ in _Finland_, and that he ceased not, by frequent inrodes upon them, to molest them, till they promised to pay him yearly tribute, which he at length weary of the long and tedious journey exchanged with some of _Birkarla_ in _Tavastia_ for a part of _Finland_, whence followed what is most true, that the _Laplanders_ to the year 1554 paid annuall tribute to the _Birkarli_, besides whom it was not lawfull for any others to trade with them. There are those now living who say they have seen the letters and conditions of the _Kurks_ kept in _Ersnees_, an allotment of _Lulalapmark_, by one _Jo. Nilson_. Which things are so far from being immediatly after the birth of _Christ_, that they may be reasonably thought to have bin since _Mag. Ladulaos_, unless we can imagine that _Ol. Petr._ by his _Tavasti_ and _Buræus_ by _Birkarli_ meant the same people, since there were other _Birkarli_ inhabitants of _Tavastia_, who chose them a Captain named _Kurk_, under whom they drove out the _Laplanders_ out of the Borders of the Eastern _Bothnia_, and made them tributary, and the letters may not be ascribed to _Kurk_, but to _Ladulaos_, in which he had granted the _Birkarli_ the priviledge to receive tribute of the _Lapps_, and of trafficking with them, for it is not probable that _Kurk_, though he was their chosen Captain, was to have all the benefit of the _Laplanders_ to himself, so as by contract to tranfer to the _Birkarli_ his right. For the _Tavastii_ were either a free People and so shared among one another whatever they got, or else under some Prince, and so could not give another what was not their own, but their Masters. Besides if they did give _Kurk_ any thing, as some Villages, or the like, it was not from any bargain that they were to receive in its stead tribute from the _Laplanders_, but as a reward to himself for his pains and conduct in the war. But whatever may be said of _Kurk_ and the _Tavasti_, ’tis certain the _Laplanders_ never came originally from the _Russians_, nor as others think from the _Tartars_, but from the _Finlanders_, having bin driven out of their Country, and forc’t to change their habitations often, till at length they fixt in this Land where they now live: and that Country, which from the remove of its inhabitants was called _Lapland_, had the same name continued by the _Swedes_, who had conquered the greatest part thereof. For after the _Swedes_ had learnt from the _Finlanders_ that they were called _Lapps_, they also gave them the same name, then the _Danes_ took it up: then _Saxo_, afterwards _Ziegler_, then _Dam. Goes_, who had the account which he gives of the _Laplanders_ from _Ol._ and _Joh. Magn._ and so at last all the Country was called _Lapland_ from the Bay of _Bothnia_ Northwards, especially after it was made subject to the _Swedes_, except only that part which lies on the Coasts of _Norway_, which retained its antient name of _Finland_; as also that part towards the white Sea, called by the _Moscovites_, _Cajanica_, altho these sometimes call the inhabitants _Loppi_, which without doubt they took from their neighbours the _Finlanders_.

CHAP. VII.

_Of the Religion of the_ Laplanders.

Having seen the rise and Original of the _Laplanders_, we come now to speak more distinctly of them, but first of their Religion; not only what is now, but also what was before Christianity came to be receiv’d there. For there were _Laplanders_, or at least some Inhabitants of _Lapland_ before the Christian Religion was introduced: such as the _Finni_, _Lappofinni_, _Scridfinni_, or _Biarmi_, as is above said; but it was very long before the _Laplanders_ properly so called embraced the Christian Religion. At first there is no doubt they were Pagans, as all the Northern Nations were, but being all Pagans were not of the same Religion, it may be enquired which the _Laplanders_ profest. And I suppose it could be no other then that of the _Finlanders_, from whom they derive their original, and consequently their Religion too. But what the Religion of the _Finlanders_ was is very uncertain, since we have no account of the ancient affairs of that Nation. Therefore we must make our conjectures from the _Biarmi_, and _Scridfinni_, as also from some remains among the _Finlanders_ and _Laplanders_.

We have already prov’d the _Biarmi_ to be the first Colony that the _Finlanders_ sent into _Lapland_, of whom this is chiefly recorded in ancient Monuments, that they worship’d a certain God whom they called _Jumala_: which _Jumala_ or _Jomala_ is manifestly a different word from what is mentioned in the History of _St. Olaus_ King of _Norway_, and of _Herrodus_, for they relate it as peculiar to the _Biarmi_, and unknown to themselves; who being either _Goths_, _Norwegians_ or _Islanders_, it cannot possibly be any old _Gothic_ word, but of some other Country, and therefore most probably of _Finland_, where it is now in use. For _God_, which is by the _Swedes_, _Goths_, and all of the same original termed _Gott_, or _Gudh_, is by them called _Jumala_; custom without doubt prevailing that the same name, whereby in ancient times they called the false God, was translated to the true One, both by the _Finlanders_, the _Biarmi_ and the _Laplanders_ also who came out of _Finland_, and being joined with the _Biarmi_ made one Nation. Besides _Jumala_, it seems the _Laplanders_ had a God whom the _Swedes_ call _Thor_, which may be gathered, not only because they worship one _Thor_ at this present among their idols, as shall be shewn hereafter, but also because in the number of Gods which the old _Finlanders_, especially the _Tavasti_ adored, there was reckoned _Turrisas_, the God of War and Victory, which was no other then _Thor_. This _Turrisas_ is put in one word for _Turris-As_ (i. e.) _Turris_, _Turrus_, or _Torus_ (for so his name is diversly written) the Prince of the _Ases_, or _Asiatics_, for those who in former times came out of _Asia_ into these parts were called _Ases_, of whom this _Turrus_ was the first, who from that time was worshipped by the _Finlanders_ by the name of _Turrisas_; which may farther be proved from _Arngrinus Jonæ_, who saies the first King of the _Finlanders_ was _Torrus_, one of the Predecessors of King _Norus_, from whom some think _Norige_, (i. e.) _Norway_, quasi _Nori Rige_, to take its denomination, it being frequent for the ancient Kings to take upon them the names of their Gods. Thus among the ancient _Greeks_ we find many who were called by the names of _Jupiter_ and _Neptune_. So _Torrus_ the King was so called from _Torus_ the ancient God of the _Finlanders_, from whom without doubt he was derived to the _Laplanders_, together with their language, worships, and other customs. To these two (if they are two) _Jumala_ and _Thor_, may be added the _Sun_, which I gather from this, because he is still reckoned among their Gods. Besides he is generally worship’d in all barbarous and pagan Countries, and if he be adored for his light and heat by those People, who enjoy the benefit of a warm air and temperate climate, how much more by the _Laplanders_, who for no small space endure the hardship of continual night and bitter frosts? but I shall speak more concerning the Sun hereafter.

These are the chief Gods of the _Laplanders_, whether they had any of less note may be questioned, tho I doubt it not; because at this day they worship some others, which the _Finlanders_ did before them, and probably brought with them into _Lapland_. Of these the _Carelii_ had _Rongotheus_ the God of Ry, _Pellonpeko_ of Barly, _Wierecannos_ of Oats, _Egres_ of Herbs, Pease, Turnips, Flax, and Hemp; _Uko_ with his wife _Rowne_, of tempests; _Kækre_ the Protector of Cattel from wild beasts; _Hyse_ had the command of _Wolves_, and Bears, _Nyrke_ of Squirrel-hunting, _Hyttavanes_ of Hare-hunting. Some of these the _Laplanders_ worshipped; especially those whose help they stood chiefly in need of to the performing of their business, as the gods of hunting and preserving their Cattel from wild beasts, and such like: others probably they neglected as useless, because they neither plowed nor sowed. But I cannot say under what names they worshipped them, because I find nothing of certainty thereof, either in their ancient records, or modern customs.

Next we must consider what kind of worship they pai’d their Gods, which we have already mentioned; but of this also we are in great uncertainty, unless we make our judgment from the present times, and deliver those rites which are now used by the _Laplanders_ in their religious performances, but of this we shall speak more when we come to treat of the present state of their Religion. We shall only note here what is read of _Jumala_. He was heretofore represented in the image of a man sitting upon an Altar, with a Crown on his head, adorned with twelve gems, and a golden Chain about his neck, which was formerly of the value of 300 Marks; tho whether the word in the History doth signify a chain, or may better be rendred a Jewel, ’tis uncertain; for it is said that _Charles_ lifting his Ax, cut the collar whereon it hanged: which shews that it was rather gold, artificially carved and set with jewels, which was (I suppose) the reason why _Herrodus_ doth not set down its weight, as is usual in the valuing of chains, but its price. This Jewel called _Men_ from _Mene_ the Moon whose figure it represented, was, as I imagine, tied to a collar about the neck, and hanged down upon the brest of the image, as is usual in all such ornaments at this day. But whether this were a chain or locket, it is certain the other parts of his habit were agreeable to our description of him; wherein he was not much unlike the _Swedes_ God _Thor_, as he is described in our History of _Upsal_: for he also was made sitting with a Crown on his head, adorned with stars, as _Jumala_ with jewels, each to the number of twelve, from whence I am almost perswaded that the _Biarmi_, and after them the _Laplanders_, either worshipped one God under two names, or if they were two Gods, they used their names promiscuously. For the true God, whom they knew partly by reason, and partly by tradition, was by them called _Jumala_: but after the name of _Thor_ began to be famous, they either called _Jumala_ by the name of _Thor_, or gave _Thor_ the name of _Jumala_: which I gather from hence, because at this day the _Laplanders_ attribute that to their _Thor_, which questionless formerly they did to _Jumala_, _viz._ the power and command over the inferior Gods, especially the bad and hurtful: also over the air, thunder, lightning, health, life and death of men, and such like; as shall be shewn hereafter. What his image was made of, is not known, but I suppose it was wood, because _Charles_ is said to have cut off his head with his Ax, when he only designed the cutting of the collar that held the aforesaid jewel, which he could hardly have don, had it bin either silver or gold. Besides, to prove it was wood, it was burnt to ashes, together with the Temple, and all its furniture, excepting some gold, and other precious things; with which gold particularly they did homage to their God: for the _Biarmi_ in their ceremonies to _Jumala_, did cast gold as a sacred offertory to him into a golden dish, of a vast weight and bigness, which stood upon his knees. This Vessel, in the History of _Olaus_, is said to be of silver, and full of silver coin, for a little before his time both basin and gold were lost, and the _Biarmi_, never had an opportunity of getting more. They did not worship _Jumala_ every where, but in some few places, or perhaps only in that one, where in a thick remote wood he had a kind of a Temple, not as they are usually built with walls and roof, but only a piece of ground fenced as the old Roman Temples were; from hence one might look every way, which could not have bin don had they bin cover’d at the top. As in the form of their Temples, so in the situation of them they did imitate the ancients, who for the most part chose groves to worship their Gods in, and there built their Temples. So much of _Jumala_, and the ancient manner of worshipping him amongst the _Biarmi_, as it is transmitted to us by ancient Writers; but of _Thor_, the Sun, and the other Gods, there is nothing read but what belongs to the times of Christianity, and the superstition still remaining amongst them, of which we shall speak particularly in the following Chapter.

CHAP. VIII.

_Of the second, or Christian Religion of the_ Laplanders.

_Lapland_ among other Nations, after a long night of Paganism, was enlightned with the Christian Religion: of which I shall now speak. In the first place we must enquire how and when they first began to hear’d of Christs name: but this will be very difficult, because all Writers are silent herein. _Plantin_ indeed affirms from their report, that they first hear of the Christian Religion in the last age; from whence he concludes that they came out of _Finland_ before the _Finlanders_ were converted. But for all this we can hardly yield our assent to him; for it is certain on the contrary that they knew, and some of them embraced, the Christian Religion in the time of _Ziegler_, who lived in the very beginning of the precedent age, and was present at the destruction of _Stockholm_ by _Christiern_ the Tyrant, which he hath very well described: he affirms that they admited Christianity to obtain the favor of their Kings, which cannot be spoken of _Christiern_, or his immediate Predecessor, but of several others in former ages. And indeed it is very improbable that so many Christian Kings should take no care of propagating their Religion among the _Laplanders_, but permit them to live in a heathenish impiety, without so much as ever hearing the name of Christ; especially since there are Letters of _Ericus_ King of _Pomerania_ extant, wherein he advises the Consistory of _Upsal_ that they would send Priests to instruct the _Laplanders_; which _Charles_ the IX afterwards made an argument of his title to _Lapland_ against his neighbors. Besides they had adjoining to them the _Birkarli_, who were either _Finlanders_ or _Swedes_, and were converted long before; with these they maintained a commerce, and paid them tribute even from the time of _Ladulaus Magnus_, who reign’d four ages ago. Therefore it is false what _Plantin_ affirms of their being converted in the last age; on the contrary I presume that from the time of _Ladulaus_, there alwaies were some in _Lapland_ who either were Christians, or pretended to be so: for then their Country was subdued and made a Province of _Swedland_, and it cannot be doubted but the _Swedes_ propagated the Christian Religion together with their dominion in _Lapland_. Tho if our conjecture prove true of the _Laplanders_ removing out of _Finland_, by reason of the wars of _Ericus Sanctus_, and the planting of the Christian Religion there, it will appear from thence that they heard of Christ, tho they neglected him. However no prudent man can suppose that their neighbors the _Finlanders_ for so many ages should never mention any thing of the Christian Religion to them. And therefore my opinion is the more confirmed that the _Laplanders_ had heard of Christ ever since _Ericus Sanctus_ his time, even these five ages, tho they rejected his Doctrine, as long as they retained their own freedom: but after they became subject to the _Swedes_, whether on their own accord to please their Kings, as _Ziegler_ would have it, or for other reasons, at length they took upon them the name of Christians, which happened in the time of _Ladulaus Magnus_, in the year 1277, from whence we must date the planting of Christian Religion in _Lapland_, which Religion they neither wholy embraced, nor wholy refused, but retained it with an inveterate, and as it were Jewish prejudice, not out of any zeal, or preferring it as more necessary for their welfare before their former Religion; but outwardly only and in shew, esteeming it the best means to gain their Princes favor, and to prevent those evils which threatened them, if they should persist in their obstinacy. Hence it was that they were married by a Christian Priest, and baptised their children according to the ceremonies of Christianity, which were the two chief things wherein their Christian Religion consisted; and the only things mention’d by _Olaus M._ For the use of catechising, or preaching of the Gospel, and other information in the heads of Christian Religion were wholy unknown to them, as may be prov’d from the ancient records of Bishopricks, wherein there is no mention of any _Lapponian_ Diocess, or Church, or of any Diocess to which _Lapland_ might belong. Lastly, if it had not bin so, what need was there of _Ericus_ his express to _Upsal_, that they would send Priests into _Lapland_? this, and whatsoever else _Ziegler_ alledges for the slow advance of Christianity in _Lapland_, _Olaus Magnus_ endevors to evade; but at length is forc’t to confess that the Northern parts thereof are not yet reclaimed, and therefore hopes for their conversion.

This was the State of Christianity in _Lapland_ till the times of _Gustavus_, differing from their ancient Paganism only in name, and a few external rites, whereby they labored to make the World believe that they were Christians; which gave _Damianus à Goes_ (tho a friend and contemporary of _Johannes_ and _Olaus Magnus_) very good reason to complain that there was no knowledg of God and Christ in the Land. From hence we may understand how to interpret _Olaus M._ when he saies that by the earnest and pious exhortations of the Catholic Priests, great part of these wild People were, and more were likely to be brought over to the Christian Religion. But when _Gustavus_ came to the Crown, as he took greater care then his Predecessors for promoting of the true Religion in other parts of his dominions, so he did in _Lapland_ also; and as the chief means to effect this, he took the peculiar charge of them upon himself. Whereas heretofore they were rather tributaries of the _Birkarli_ then the Kings of _Sweden_; and consequently neglected by those Kings; now at some set times in the Winter, they were obliged to meet together in a place appointed, where they were to pay their tribute to the Kings Officers, and be instructed in the Gospel by the Priests, and also to give an account of what they learnt the year before. This custom must needs have its beginning in _Gustavus_’s time, for he was the first King that demanded tribute of the _Laplanders_, and consequently that assembled them together for the paying of it. Besides _Olaus M._ mentions no such institution; which he would have don had it bin received in his time. Nay he confesses that if the _Laplanders_ had a mind to have their Children baptised, they were forc’t to carry them on their backs two hundred Italian miles to a Christian Church, in some of their neighboring Countries, as _Aongermannia_, _Helsingia_, and the like, and if they neglected this duty, there was none to reprove them for it. This made _Gustavus_ complain in a Letter dated at _Stocholme_, July 24. 1556, that there were many among them, who were never baptised, which proceeded from an opinion that those who were baptised in their riper years, would dy Within 7 or 8 daies after; but when _Gustavus_ together with his Collectors sent Priests into _Lapland_, their children were baptised, and they instructed at home. Nor were they obliged only to a bare hearing of the word, but to a diligent attention, because they were to be catechised afterwards, and give an account of their progress; so that now it was that they began to be Christians in good earnest, and in this respect it might with some reason be said that in this last age the Gospel began to be preached among them, and that before they were wholy ignorant of the means of their salvation. Now it was that they had certain Priests appointed to instruct them, the first whereof, or at least since the reformation, was one _Michael_, whom _Gustavus_ in his before mentioned Letter earnestly recommends to them, giving him especial command by pious exhortation to reduce them to the true knowledg of God, and the Christian Faith.

But this was more effectually don in the succeeding times of _Charles Gustavus Adolphus_, and _Christina_; who first endowed Schools and Churches; those two firm supports, without which Religion can neither maintain its present strength, nor acquire more.

_Charles_ the IX, about the latter end of his reign was the first that caused Churches to be built in every one of the divisions or Marches at his own peculiar charge; two of them are mentioned in _Lapponia Tornensis_, viz. _Tenotekis_ and _Jukasjærff_, whereof one was built, _ann._ 1600, the other 3 years after. _Christina_ having found a silver mine there, followed his example; and by a public Charter ordered the building of four more, in _Arwitsieff_, _Arieplog_, _Silbojoch_, and _Nasafiell_, ann. 1640. then were Christian Churches built in _Lapland_ itself, and there are now reckoned in _Lapponia Aongermannia_ one, called _Aosalo_; in _Lapponia Umensis_ one called _Lyæsala_; in _Lapponia Pithensis_ four, whose name are _Graatræsk_, _Arwitsierfs_, _Stora sawgcks_, and _Arieplogs_; there was also a fifth called _Silbojochs_, but this was long ago demolish’d and burnt by the _Danes_. In _Lapponia Luhlensis_ there is one call’d _Jochmoch_. There was also another called _Nafrilocht_, but this was burnt accidentally not long since. In _Lapponia Tornensis_ there are reckoned three, _Juckochsierfs_, _Rounala_, and _Enotaches_. In _Lapponia Kimensis_ only _Enare_. All of them being 13 in number, except _Silbojochs_ and _Nafrilochs_, are kept in good repair, and frequented by the _Laplanders_. They all own the Kings, and especially _Charles_ the IX, for their Founders, excepting only _Kounala_, which was built and adorned with a bell at the sole charge of 3 brothers _Laplanders_, whose piety herein is the more commendable because they were forc’t to fetch all the materials requisit for such a work thro long and troublesome waies, out of _Norway_ with their Rain-dears. A memorable example which most men in our daies, tho desirous enough to seem pious and religious, are so far from equalling, much more from exceeding, that they never attemt to follow it. The manner of building their Temples was plain indeed, but fit enough for the use they were designed to, the matter of them is the same timber wherewith the _Swedes_ usually build their houses. Adjoining to their Churches they have belfrys, and houses for the use of Priests and the convenience of those who living at a great distance from the Church, have the liberty of refreshing themselves here in the Winter time by the fire. This constitution was first made by _Christina_ ann. 1640, commanding the Priests to be alwaies resident, whereas before they living a far off, came but at some set times of the year.

Schools were first instituted by _Gustavus Adolphus_, and I suppose in the town of _Pithen_, something before the year 1619, for in that year _Nicolaus Andreæ_, Minister of _Pithen_, dedicates his Ritual to him, in token of thanks and commendation for this his piety. The reason why _Gustavus Adolphus_ founded Schools, was chiefly because he saw the _Laplanders_ profited very little under the Swedish Priests preaching in a forreign language, as they had hitherto don. Besides, the harshness of the air, and coursness of the diet killed great part of the Priests, who had bin used to a better climate, and made the rest more unwilling to undergo this hardship: therefore was the first School instituted in _Pithen_, and committed to the charge of _Nicolaus Andreæ_, who was also commanded for the better promoting of knowledg there, to translate the most useful and necessary books out of the Swedish into the Laplandish tongue. For the _Laplanders_ before this were wholy ignorant of letters, and had not a book writ in their language: the first, which I suppose they had, was the _Primer_, such as children use to learn containing the chief heads of Christian Religion, _viz._ the ten Commandments, Apostles Creed, Lords Praier, and the like compiled by the aforesaid _Nicolaus_, as himself witnesses: he likewise was the first that published the Ritual in the Laplandish tongue, the book is now extant printed at _Stockholm_ by _Ignatius Meurer_, with this title, _Liber Cantionum quomodo sit celebranda Missa Sermone Lappico_. These were the elements wherein they were first to be instructed, afterwards there were other books printed, amongst which was a _Manual_ translated out of Swedish by _Joannes Tornæus_, Minister and School-master of _Tornen_, containing the Psalms of _David_, Song of _Solomon_, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Ecclesiasticus, _Luthers_ Catechise, sacred Hymns, Gospels, and Epistles, with the solemn Praiers. The history of _Christs_ Passion, and destruction of _Jerusalem_, the _Ritual_, and Praiers of all sorts.

In the next place, for an encouragement to those that would send their children to School, _Gustavus Adolphus_ allowed money, not only for their diet, but also for their clothes, and other necessaries, with a stipend for the School-master: with these helps the _Laplanders_ began more seriously to consider of the Christian Religion, which was now preach’d to them in no other language then their own: heretofore their Ministers using only the Swedish tongue, they learnt somthing but understood it not, and muttered some Praiers, but they knew not what: for somtimes there stood under the Pulpit, an Interpreter who explained to the People as well as he could what the Minister said at length. By the benefit of these aforesaid books they began to understand what they praied for, and some of the Youth of _Lapland_ having studied at the University of _Upsal_, made so good progress in the knowledg of the Liberal Arts and Sciences, and of the Christian Religion, that they were entrusted with the Ministery.

Hitherto we have taken a view of _Gustavus Adolphus_ his first care for the advancement of Christianity in _Lapland_, but as all things in their beginnings find some opposition, so did the preaching of the word of God here; first of all it was a matter of great difficulty to maintain a School without the confines of _Lapland_, to which the Youth of that Nation should resort, therefore in the second place it was advised by that famous man _Joannes Skytte_, free Baron of _Duderhoff_, and Senator of the Kingdom, who to his immortal praise obtained that a School might be erected by the King in _Lapland_ it self, in the Province of _Uma_, near the Church _Lyksala_, from whence the School took its name. This was the second School the _Laplanders_ had, and by _Gustavus Adolphus_, then engaged in a tedious war in _Germany_, the charge of it was committed to the aforesaid _Joannes Skytte_, by a Roial Charter, and setled upon his Family for ever, allowing the School-master the whole Tithe, after the ordinary charges deducted; but still retaining to the Crown the superintendency of the benefaction. The form thereof is as follows,

_We_ GUSTAVUS ADOLPHUS _by the Grace of God King of the_ Goths _and_ Vandals, _&c. declare that altho our dear Father_ Charles _of blessed memory; as likewise we our selves, after we were by the Divine Providence placed in the Throne of this Kingdom, have earnestly endevor’d that our Northern Subjects called_ Laplanders _should be instructed, in Arts and Letters; and be informed in the grounds of Christian Religion, yet the distraction of the present time, hath hitherto hindred our religious purpose: but least our attemt should be utterly frustrated, we ordain and appoint our faithfull Senator, Chief Governor of_ Livonia, Ingria, _and_ Carelia, _the illustrious Lord_ John Skytt _L. B. in_ Dunderhoff, _Governor and Visitor of a School to be erected in_ Umalappmark, _he having undertaken that Charge: We farther ordain that the Government of the said School, shall from time to time continue and belong to the Successors, in his family: and that the Master and Scholars in the school aforesaid, may have a constant maintenance, we grant unto them the Tithes which the inhabitants of that division, do yearly bring into the Store-house of_ Uma, _after the ordinary paiments are deducted. These Tithes, with other gifts and benefactions which the aforesaid Lord_ John Skitt _shall by his diligence acquire for the said charitable use; shall be disposed by him for the benefit of the said School, reserving to our selves and successors the supreme regulation of the same. In witness whereof we have set our hand and Seal. Given in old_ Stetin _in_ Pomerland, _June 20. Ann. 1631_.

This School had some peculiar advantages over others, because its setlement was firmly established, having for its Visitor, not the Minister of the Parish, but a Senator of the Kingdom. Besides here was not only a salary allowed to the Master and Scholars, but also an order to receive it out of the Tithes of _Uma_; whereas the other had indeed a set stipend, but because it was not certainly decreed where they should receive it, it was not duely paid as the time and their necessities required, which was no small disadvantage and impediment to their design. But all inconveniences were here remedied and the salary most firmly setled; and not only so, but also full autority granted unto the Illustrious Lord _John Skytte_ to find out and confirm any other means, which might conduce more to the good of that foundation. Neither was that eminent man wanting out of his singular piety to God, and love of learning, to make this his whole business; till at last he gathered a sum of five thousand Dollars, partly thro his own, and partly thro his friends liberality, which he delivered to the Queen _Christina_ for the use of a Copper Mine, that in lieu thereof the School of _Uma_ might yearly receive the whole revenue of the Crown, due from certain Towns in that Province. This request of his the Queen easily granted, and two years after issu’d out her Letters patents, and a new Charter by the Protectors of the Kingdom, whose worthy Commemoration is not to be omitted. The words of the Charter are as follow,

_We_ CHRISTINA _by the Grace of God Queen elect and hereditary Princess of the_ Swedes, Goths _and_ Vandals, _Queen of_ Finland, Esthonia, Carelia, _and_ Ingria, _do declare, that whereas our dearly beloved Father, somtimes King of_ Swedland, _did out of his singular zeal and religious affection for the promoting of the Church of God, especially in the Northern parts of his Dominions, institute a Laplandish School in the Province of_ Uma, _and did constitute our trusty and well beloved Senator the illustrious Lord_ John Skytte, _Senator of the Kingdom of_ Sweden, _President of our Roial Council in_ Gothland, _Chancellor of our University of_ Upsal, _High Commissioner of_ South-Finland, _free Baron of_ Duderhoff, _Lord of_ Grænsia, Stræmfrum _and_ Skytteholm, _Knight, to be superviser of this work, setling the same power upon his Posterity after his decease, and bountifully allowing to this design out of the stores of_ Uma _the yearly Tithes due to the Crown; We therefore by vertue of these Letters patents to not only confirm that wholsom Constitution of our pious Father deceased, but do also certify that the illustrius Lord_ John Skytte _hath brought in the sum of 5000 Dollars of silver given by himself and his pious friends for the use of the Laplandish School, which entire sum he hath paid to the Copper-Company, humbly intreating that the said sum may remain in that Company to Us and our Crown, and that We for the yearly interest of the said money allowing 8 per Cent, would give to the Laplandish School the use of certain Villages in_ Norlands, _that the inhabitants thereof may pay their taxes to the aforesaid School; which We graciously approving, do give, as a security, the benefit and profit of these following Villages belonging to Us and our Crown in the Provinces of_ Uma _and West_ Bothnia; Roebeck 12 _Farms_ 5/8. Stæksive 2. 3/16. Clabbiler 3. 9/16. Baggaboelet 2. 27/32. Kuddis 2. 5/16. Bræneland 2. 11/16. _These Farms shall yearly pay to the Laplandish School all their ordinary and extraordinary taxes which are hitherto imposed, which their inhabitants are hereby commanded to do without intermission, during the time that we retain the aforesaid sum of 5000 Dollars, paid to the Copper-Company, until We shall have restored the sum entire to the Laplandish School. Wherefore We command our Officers, and all whom it may concern, that they substract not from the said School the aforesaid sum given in security, before such time as the money may be restored; and that they do not offer nor suffer to be offered any injury or prejudice to the aforesaid School, contrary to this our Edict, in confirmation whereof Ours and the Kingdoms Protectors and Administrators have hereto set their hands, and sealed it with the Roial Seal. Dated at_ Stockholm _Novemb. 5. 1634_.

The Persons that subscribed were, _Gabriel Oxenstern, Gustavi F. R. Drotsetus_. _Jacobus de la Gardie_ High Marshal. _Carolus Caroli Gyldenhielm_ High Admiral. _Petrus Baner_ Deputy Chancellor. _Gabriel Oxenstern_ Tresurer.

This is that School to which the _Laplanders_ ow their Progress in the knowledg and love of Christian Religion, which appears from those many useful and eminent Persons who have bin there bred; also the success may be seen from the testimonials of the Examiners, who were constituted in the same year that the School was endow’d by the aforesaid Roial Charter, the words are related by _Brazius_ as follow,