postils

Postils are annotations, comments, or marginal notes added to a text, typically within a manuscript or printed book. The term originates from the Latin "post illa," meaning "after these," indicating remarks made after the main text. Historically, postils served as a means for scholars, clergy, or readers to clarify, interpret, or critique a work, often providing additional context or explanations.

In religious contexts, particularly within Christian traditions, "postils" refer to collections of theological sermons or homilies that are arranged to be read throughout the liturgical year. These Christian postils were commonly used for instructional purposes, especially during the Middle Ages and the Reformation, to disseminate doctrinal teachings to clergy and laypeople alike.

Throughout history, postils have played an important role in scholarly and religious education by facilitating deeper understanding of texts. They are often distinguished from glosses, which are brief clarifications embedded within the text, whereas postils are typically more extensive and are added as separate notes or commentary.

In modern use, the term is less common, but similar annotations are still employed in editing, studying, and teaching texts. Collections of postils can be valuable resources for historical linguistic studies, textual criticism, and theological research.

Overall, postils represent an important tradition of scholarly engagement with texts, contributing to the interpretation, transmission, and understanding of written works across various disciplines.