“Jerome has merited hell rather than heaven for it-so little would I dare to recognize or call him a saint.”
Quote Analysis
In this quote, Martin Luther expresses his opinion on Jerome by stating that he believes Jerome deserves hell instead of heaven. This strong opinion on Jerome reflects Luther's belief in the importance of one's actions and the significance of living a righteous life. Luther's words emphasize the high standards he holds for individuals he deems worthy of being called a saint.
Modern Relevance
In this quote, Martin Luther expresses his lack of reverence for Jerome, a Catholic saint, and questions his worthiness of being recognized as such. This sentiment highlights Luther's criticism of the Catholic Church and its teachings, which ultimately led to the Protestant Reformation. Today, this quote underscores the importance of questioning established beliefs and authority, as well as the ongoing debate over the interpretation of religious figures and texts.
Martin Luther's Criticism of Jerome
"Jerome has merited hell rather than heaven for it-so little would I dare to recognize or call him a saint." - Martin Luther
Reflection Questions
Reflecting on Martin Luther's statement about Jerome, one may consider various aspects of judgment, forgiveness, and the concept of sainthood. Here are some questions to ponder:
- How do our actions and beliefs influence our perception of others' worthiness for heaven or hell?
- Is it fair to judge someone's character based on their works or beliefs, as Martin Luther did with Jerome?
- How does the idea of forgiveness play a role in determining one's place in the afterlife?
- What criteria should be used to determine who is worthy of being called a saint?
Similar quotes
“For the kingdom is not being prepared, but has been prepared, while the sons of the Kingdom are being prepared, not preparing the Kingdom; that is to say, the Kingdom merits the sons, not the songs the Kingdom. So all hell merits and prepares its children rather than they it.”
“I would rather be a conscious wrongdoer than a mindless saint.”
“Jesus came to be with the Father for an interlude before his betrayal, but found hell rather than heaven opened before him, and he staggered.”
“The choice we face is not, as many imagine, between heaven and hell. Rather, the choice is between heaven and this world. Even a fool would exchange hell for heaven; but only the wise will exchange this world for heaven.”
“And why is Saint Paula a Saint? She dumps her four kids at a convent. She runs off to Hajira with Saint Jerome. How is that a saint?You’ve got shitty mothers all over America who would love to dump their kids and travel.”