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):
- Professor of Theology, Priest, Author, Composer
Early Life and Education
- Born to Hans and Margarethe Luther.
- Educated in Mansfield, Magdeburg, and Eisenach.
- Entered the University of Erfurt in 1501, obtaining a Master of Arts degree in 1505.
- Initially studied law but abandoned it following a near-death experience.
- Joined the Augustinian monastery in Erfurt in 1505.
- Ordained to the priesthood in 1507.
- Earned a doctorate in theology at the University of Wittenberg in 1512.
Career and Major Achievements
- Appointed professor of biblical theology at the University of Wittenberg in 1512.
- Posted his Ninety-Five Theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg on October 31, 1517, criticizing the sale of indulgences.
- Refused to recant his writings at the Diet of Worms in 1521.
- Excommunicated by Pope Leo X in 1521.
- Protected by Frederick the Wise, Elector of Saxony, at Wartburg Castle, where he translated the New Testament into German.
- Returned to Wittenberg in 1522 to lead the Reformation.
- Married Katharina von Bora, a former nun, in 1525.
- Played a key role in shaping the theology and practices of Protestantism.
Notable Works
- Ninety-Five Theses (1517)
- On the Freedom of a Christian (1520)
- To the Christian Nobility of the German Nation (1520)
- The Babylonian Captivity of the Church (1520)
- German Translation of the Bible (New Testament in 1522, complete Bible in 1534)
- Small Catechism (1529)
- Large Catechism (1529)
Legacy and Impact
Martin Luther's impact on Western civilization is profound. His challenge to papal authority sparked the Protestant Reformation, leading to the development of new Christian denominations and reshaping European politics and culture. His translation of the Bible into German made scripture accessible to a wider audience and significantly influenced the development of the German language. A comprehensive understanding of Luther's life and work is vital; the influence of resources like a philippe calander biography of martin luther would offer insight into his complex legacy.