Ideas Will the real Martin Luther please stand up?
Jul 18, 2025
David Kattenberg, a documentary producer, joins historian Thomas Kaufmann and former regional dean Harald Storch to unravel the complex legacy of Martin Luther. They dive into Luther's groundbreaking translation of the New Testament, which democratized scripture access, and discuss his role in sparking the Protestant Reformation. The conversation touches on Luther’s linguistic mastery, his evolving views on Jews, and the powerful impact of the printing press. The guests explore how Luther's dual identity as a reformer and controversial figure continues to shape debates today.
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Luther's Dramatic Rescue and Hiding
- Martin Luther was declared an outlaw after refusing to recant at the Diet of Worms in 1521.
- He was rescued by allies and hidden at Wartburg Castle for protection during the translation of the New Testament.
Luther's Vernacular Translation Approach
- Luther translated the New Testament into German to sound like everyday spoken language.
- His translation aimed to reflect how common people talked, making the Bible accessible and musical in tone.
Luther's Translation as Theology
- Luther’s translation involved interpretation, such as adding "alone" to Paul's justification by faith.
- He emphasized individual faith over good works, challenging church authority.
