One complaint of Martin Luther was the practice of the church selling indulgences which is?
An indulgence, in the context of the Catholic Church during Martin Luther's time, was a way for individuals to obtain forgiveness for their sins or reduce their time in purgatory. It involved making a financial contribution or performing specific prayers or acts of penance. These indulgences were issued by the church and could be bought or sold.
To better understand this complaint of Martin Luther, you can try the following steps to investigate:
1. Research the historical background: Study the specific events and practices during the time of Martin Luther, particularly during the 16th century. Understanding the historical context will help you grasp the reasons behind Luther's objections.
2. Read Martin Luther's writings: Luther was a prominent figure in the Protestant Reformation, and he addressed the issue of indulgences in his famous document titled "Ninety-Five Theses." By reading his writings, you can gain insight into his objections and arguments against the practice.
3. Explore primary sources: Apart from Luther's works, you can look for primary sources such as papal bulls, church documents, and other historical records related to indulgences. These sources will provide a firsthand account of the church's position and the reasoning behind indulgences.
4. Consult historical analyses and scholars: To gain a comprehensive understanding, it is beneficial to read academic studies, books, and articles written by historians and theologians who have extensively researched this topic. These sources will offer different perspectives and interpretations of historical events.
Remember to critically evaluate the information you find during your research. Understanding multiple viewpoints and corroborating sources is essential for a thorough comprehension of Martin Luther's complaint about the sale of indulgences.