Banned Books 150: Martin Luther - On the Jews and their Lies (1543)
Jun 28, 2020
This episode takes a deep dive into Martin Luther's controversial writings on Jews and the implications of his legacy. The hosts challenge listeners to navigate morality's gray areas, discussing the complexities of good and evil in today's society. They also examine the intersection of faith and social justice, and how historical figures like Luther shouldn't be reduced to mere caricatures. Through satire and thoughtful reflection, they encourage a nuanced approach to understanding historical truths and the dangers of intolerance.
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Context Matters For Luther And Anti-Semitism
- Martin Luther's anti-Jewish writings were later used by Nazis but must be evaluated in historical context.
- Scholarship (e.g., Uwe Siemon-Netto, Heiko Oberman) helps separate Luther's theology from 20th-century racial ideology.
Luther's Early Pro-Jewish Argument
- In 1523 Luther argued Jesus was born a Jew and urged kindness to Jews expecting conversion.
- That early humane stance contrasts sharply with his later, harsher writings.
From Mission To Condemnation
- Later in life Luther shifted to vehement condemnation after Jews did not convert as he expected.
- His attack was religiously motivated—punishing rejection of the gospel—not racially framed as modern anti-Semitism.
