Martin Luther
- Born:
- November 10, 1483, Eisleben, Holy Roman Empire
- Died:
- February 18, 1546, Eisleben, County of Mansfeld, Holy Roman Empire
- Nationality:
- German
- Profession(s):
- Theologian, Professor, Priest, Reformer
Early Life and Education
- Born to Hans and Margarethe Luther.
- Received a general education in Mansfeld, Magdeburg, and Eisenach.
- Enrolled at the University of Erfurt in 1501.
- Earned a Master of Arts degree in 1505.
- Began studying law at the University of Erfurt but abandoned it.
- Entered the Augustinian monastery in Erfurt in 1505.
Career and Major Achievements
- Ordained to the priesthood in 1507.
- Began teaching moral theology at the University of Wittenberg in 1508.
- Earned a Doctor of Theology degree in 1512.
- Appointed professor of biblical theology at the University of Wittenberg.
- Nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church on October 31, 1517, initiating the Protestant Reformation.
- Debated Johann Eck at the Leipzig Debate in 1519.
- Excommunicated by Pope Leo X in 1521.
- Declared an outlaw by the Edict of Worms in 1521.
- Translated the New Testament into German while in hiding at Wartburg Castle.
- Published numerous theological treatises and pamphlets.
- Married Katharina von Bora in 1525.
- Oversaw the development of the Lutheran Church.
Notable Works
- Ninety-Five Theses (1517)
- Address to the Christian Nobility of the German Nation (1520)
- On the Babylonian Captivity of the Church (1520)
- On the Freedom of a Christian (1520)
- German translation of the New Testament (1522)
- German translation of the Old Testament (completed posthumously)
- Small Catechism (1529)
- Large Catechism (1529)
Legacy and Impact
Martin Luther's actions and writings fundamentally altered the course of Christian history. His translation of the Bible into German made it accessible to a wider audience and helped standardize the German language. His theological ideas spurred the Protestant Reformation, leading to the creation of new denominations and reshaping the political and religious landscape of Europe. It is important to note that understanding the complex and nuanced life of such a pivotal figure requires careful consideration and research, as evidenced by works like 'sushila blackman biography of martin luther', seeking to delve deeper into his history and impact.