Schwärmer, a derogatory term for the Anabaptists, used by the Reformers and the official church historians mainly in Lutheran lands, best translated as "enthusiasts", with the connotation of "fanatics." The real Schwärmer of the 16th century were the Inspirationists who relied on inner inspirations and visions, such as the Zwickau Prophets, Thomas Müntzer, and David Joris.

Adapted by permission of Herald Press, Harrisonburg, Virginia, and Waterloo, Ontario, from Mennonite Encyclopedia, Vol. 4, p. 486. All rights reserved. For information on ordering the encyclopedia visit the Herald Press website.

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