Martin Luther

Profession: Theologian and Founder of Protestantism

Nationality:

Biography: Martin Luther played a central role in the Protestant Reformation. He is best known for his Ninety-five Theses, which challenged the Catholic Church—including their practice of selling indulgences, whereby salvation was treated as a thing that could simply be purchased.

Luther studied at the University of Erfurt, where he initially enrolled in law but later shifted to theology and philosophy. In 1505, after a near-death experience, Luther vowed to become a monk and joined the Augustinian monastery in Erfurt. He was ordained in 1507 and began teaching theology at the University of Wittenberg in 1508.

In 1517, Luther wrote the Ninety-five Theses, which sparked the Protestant Reformation. He was excommunicated by Pope Leo X in 1521 and declared an outlaw by Holy Roman Emperor Charles V.

Luther's key theological beliefs included the idea that salvation is a gift of God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ, that the Bible is the sole source of divine knowledge, and that all believers are part of a holy priesthood.

Luther translated the Bible into German, making it accessible to the general public. This translation had a significant impact on both the church and German culture. In 1525, he married Katharina von Bora, a former nun, and they had six children together.

In his later years, Luther expressed anti-Judaistic views, which contributed to antisemitism in Germany. He also initially supported the peasants' grievances during the Peasants' War but later condemned their violent uprising.

A seminal figure of the 16th-century movement in Christianity known later as the Protestant Reformation, thanks in large part to his Ninety-Five Theses.

Born: November 10, 1483
Birthplace: Eisleben, Saxony, Holy Roman Empire
Star Sign: Scorpio

Died: February 18, 1546 (aged 62)