There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage

There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage

Martin Luther, the influential German theologian and key figure in the Protestant Reformation, had a complex relationship with the institution of marriage. Luther himself was a monk before he became a reformer, and his views on marriage were shaped by his own experiences and beliefs.

In his time, marriage was seen as a sacrament by the Catholic Church, and Luther challenged this notion by advocating for the idea that marriage was a divine institution ordained by God. He believed that marriage was a holy union between a man and a woman, and that it was a way for individuals to fulfill their God-given roles as husband and wife.

Luther also believed that marriage was a source of comfort and companionship for individuals, and he often spoke about the joys and benefits of a good marriage. He once famously said, “There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage.” This quote reflects Luther’s belief that marriage was a source of love, support, and happiness for couples.

Luther’s views on marriage were revolutionary for his time, as he challenged the traditional beliefs and practices surrounding marriage. He believed that marriage was a partnership between equals, and that both husband and wife had important roles to play in the relationship. He also believed that marriage was a way for individuals to grow in faith and to serve God together.

Despite his positive views on marriage, Luther’s own marriage was not without its challenges. He married Katharina von Bora, a former nun, in 1525, and their marriage was marked by financial struggles, health issues, and the pressures of public life. However, Luther and Katharina’s marriage was also marked by love, mutual respect, and a deep partnership that endured until Luther’s death in 1546.