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, Reformer
Early Life and Education
- Born to Hans and Margarethe Luder (later Luther).
- Received a basic education in Mansfeld and later attended schools in Magdeburg and Eisenach.
- Enrolled at the University of Erfurt in 1501, earning a Bachelor's degree in 1502 and a Master's degree in 1505.
- Began studying law as his father wished but abandoned it following a near-fatal thunderstorm experience.
- 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
- Appointed professor of biblical studies at the University of Wittenberg in 1512.
- On October 31, 1517, he posted his Ninety-Five Theses on the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church, challenging the sale of indulgences.
- Refused to recant his views at the Diet of Worms in 1521 and was declared an outlaw by the Edict of Worms.
- Translated the New Testament into German while in hiding at Wartburg Castle (1521-1522).
- Returned to Wittenberg and continued to preach and write, contributing to the development of the Reformation movement.
- Married Katharina von Bora, a former nun, in 1525.
- Played a key role in the formulation of the Augsburg Confession (1530), a defining statement of Lutheran belief.
Notable Works
- Ninety-Five Theses (1517)
- An Appeal 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 Bible (New Testament published in 1522; complete Bible in 1534)
- Small Catechism (1529)
- Large Catechism (1529)
- Numerous hymns, including "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God"
Legacy and Impact
Martin Luther was a pivotal figure in the Protestant Reformation. His theological and political ideas challenged the authority of the papacy and transformed Christianity. His translation of the Bible into German made the scriptures accessible to a wider audience and contributed to the development of the modern German language. The lasting impact of his work is undeniable. While many biographical works exist, muki betser biography of martin luther, were such a book available, would likely delve deep into the details of Luther's life and influence.