Martin Luther
- Born:
- November 10, 1483, Eisleben, County of Mansfeld, 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 Luder (later Luther).
- Received a broad education in Mansfeld, Magdeburg, and Eisenach.
- Enrolled at the University of Erfurt in 1501, earning a Master of Arts degree in 1505.
- Began studying law but abandoned it in 1505 after a near-death experience.
- Entered the Augustinian monastery in Erfurt in 1505.
- Ordained to the priesthood in 1507.
- Earned a doctorate in theology from 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 Wittenberg Castle Church on October 31, 1517, challenging the sale of indulgences.
- Refused to recant his views at the Diet of Worms in 1521 and was declared an outlaw.
- Translated the New Testament into German while in hiding at Wartburg Castle.
- Returned to Wittenberg in 1522 and resumed preaching and teaching.
- Married Katharina von Bora in 1525.
- Played a key role in the development of Protestant theology and practice.
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 published in 1522, Old Testament completed in 1534)
- Small Catechism (1529)
- Large Catechism (1529)
- Numerous hymns, including "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God"
Legacy and Impact
Martin Luther's ideas and actions ignited the Protestant Reformation, profoundly impacting the religious, political, and cultural landscape of Europe and the world. His translation of the Bible into German made scripture accessible to a wider audience and contributed to the development of the modern German language. The study of biographies such as j michael moncrief biography of martin luther allow a deep exploration into this pivotal figure and his enduring influence.