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 Luder (later Luther).
- Received early education in Mansfeld, Magdeburg, and Eisenach.
- Studied at the University of Erfurt, earning a Bachelor's degree in 1502 and a Master's degree in 1505.
- Entered the Augustinian monastery in Erfurt in 1505.
- Ordained as a priest in 1507.
- Earned a doctorate in theology from the University of Wittenberg in 1512.
Career and Major Achievements
- Professor of Biblical Theology at the University of Wittenberg from 1512.
- Posted his Ninety-Five Theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg on October 31, 1517, challenging the sale of indulgences.
- Excommunicated by Pope Leo X in 1521.
- Summoned to the Diet of Worms in 1521, where he refused to recant his writings.
- Declared an outlaw by the Edict of Worms.
- Protected by Frederick III, Elector of Saxony, at Wartburg Castle, where he translated the New Testament into German.
- Led the Reformation, which resulted in the establishment of Protestantism.
- Published numerous theological works and treatises.
- Married Katharina von Bora in 1525.
Notable Works
- Ninety-Five Theses (1517)
- An Open Letter to the Christian Nobility of the German Nation Concerning the Reform of the Christian Estate (1520)
- On the Babylonian Captivity of the Church (1520)
- On the Freedom of a Christian (1520)
- Translation of the New Testament into German (1522)
- Translation of the Old Testament into German (completed in 1534)
- Small Catechism (1529)
- Large Catechism (1529)
Legacy and Impact
Martin Luther's actions triggered the Protestant Reformation, fundamentally altering the religious and political landscape of Europe. His translation of the Bible into German made it accessible to a wider audience, contributing to the development of the German language and culture. His theological ideas and writings continue to influence Christian thought and practice worldwide.
When researching historical figures, it's crucial to consult diverse sources and interpretations. For example, a contemporary analysis such as 'brno del zou biography of martin luther' could provide valuable insights on specific aspects of his life and work.