Who was Martin Luther and what did he contribute to the Reformation?

Martin Luther was a significant figure in the Protestant Reformation, known primarily for his role as a German monk and theologian who challenged the Roman Catholic Church's practices and doctrines. His contributions were monumental, especially with the posting of his Ninety-Five Theses in 1517, which criticized the Church's sale of indulgences and called for a return to biblical teachings.

Luther's actions sparked a widespread religious movement that questioned the authority of the Pope and emphasized the individual's relationship with God. He advocated for the translation of the Bible into vernacular languages so that all people could read and interpret it, rather than relying solely on the clergy for spiritual guidance. This emphasis on personal faith and scripture was a cornerstone of his teachings and the Reformation movement, leading to the establishment of various Protestant denominations.

While Luther was indeed a monk and theologian, his challenge to church practices and insistence on justification by faith alone marked him as the initiator of a major shift in theological thought and church structure during this period.