A new monograph titled 'Ernst Gliks and the Latvian Bible' has been released, celebrating the life and work of Ernst Glik, the first translator of the Bible into Latvian. Glik was also a pioneer in founding the first schools in the Vidzeme region, aimed at educating peasant children. At a time when the Bible was almost the only book from which peasants could learn to read, Glik's translation not only made the scriptures accessible but also promoted the development of the Latvian language by introducing new vocabulary.

The establishment of schools met with resistance from local nobility, who preferred that peasant children continue to work in the fields rather than receive an education. Despite these challenges, Glik's efforts significantly advanced literacy and education among Latvians, laying a foundation for future educational initiatives. The new book not only focuses on Glik’s contributions to literacy but also explores his biography, depicting him as a clergyman, priest, and a dedicated educator.

Furthermore, the monograph sheds light on personal aspects of Glik's life, including the fact that his foster daughter, Marta, eventually became Empress Catherine I of Russia. This multifaceted account highlights the impact Glik had on Latvian cultural history, emphasizing his role in both religious translation and educational reform, which remains a cornerstone in the development of Latvian society today.