“Pestis eram vivus ... moriens tua mors ero - "Living, I was your plague ... dying, I shall be your death.”
Explore This Quote Further
Analysis
This quote by Martin Luther is a powerful statement that conveys a sense of vengeance and retribution. By stating "Living, I was your plague … dying, I shall be your death," Luther is emphasizing the impact of his presence and actions on others. The use of the word "plague" suggests a destructive force that brought harm to those around him, while the reference to death reinforces the idea that his legacy will continue to have lasting consequences even after his passing. Overall, this quote highlights Luther's determination to leave a lasting impact on the world, both during his life and beyond.
Martin Luther's Warning
These words from Martin Luther emphasize the power of standing up against injustices and not allowing oneself to be silenced. In today's world, it serves as a reminder to speak out against oppression and work towards creating positive change, even if it may come with personal sacrifices.
Latin Quote from Martin Luther
One of the most famous Latin quotes attributed to Martin Luther is: “Pestis eram vivus ... moriens tua mors ero - "Living, I was your plague ... dying, I shall be your death.” This powerful statement reflects Luther's belief in the power of his own convictions and the impact he believed he would have on the world.
Reflection Questions
This quote by Martin Luther brings up themes of transformation and consequences. Reflect on the following questions:
- How do you interpret the idea of being someone's "plague" while alive and becoming their "death" in the afterlife?
- Do you believe that people have the power to affect others in such a profound way, even after their own passing?
- In what ways can the actions and words of a person have a lasting impact on others, for better or for worse?
- How does this quote resonate with you on a personal level, in terms of the legacy you hope to leave behind?
Similar quotes
“So when the devil throws your sins in your face and declares that you deserve death and hell, tell him this: "I admit that I deserve death and hell, what of it? For I know One who suffered and made satisfaction on my behalf. His name is Jesus Christ, Son of God, and where He is there I shall be also!”
“I will say something still easier. Take a single flea or louse-since you tempt and mock our God with this talk about curing a lame horse-and if, after combining all the powers and concentrating all the efforts both of your good and all your supporters, you succeed in killing it in the name of free choice, you shall be victorious, your case shall be established, and we too will come at once and worship that god of yours, that wonderful killer of the louse.”
“I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer.”
“Now I know from this very word and deed of yours what free choice is and is capable of, namely, madness.”
“Therefore, when some say good works are forbidden when we preach faith alone, it is as if I said to a sick man: "If you had health, you would have the use of your limbs; but without health the works of your limbs are nothing"' and he wanted to infer that I had forbidden the works of all his limbs.”
“Since then your sere Majesty and your Lordships seek a simple answer, I will give it in this manner, neither horned nor toothed. Unless I am convinced by the testimony of the Scriptures or by clear reason (for I do not trust either in the pope or in councils alone, since it is well known that they have often erred and contradicted themselves), I am bound by the Scriptures I have quoted and my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything, since it is neither safe nor right to go against conscience. May God help me. Amen."(Reply to the Diet of Worms, April 18, 1521)”