reformaati

Reformaatio was a major religious movement in 16th-century Europe that challenged the authority and doctrines of the Roman Catholic Church. It began in 1517 when Martin Luther, a German monk and theologian, published his Ninety-five Theses, criticizing the sale of indulgences and other church practices. Luther's ideas, emphasizing salvation through faith alone and the Bible as the ultimate religious authority, resonated with many people and sparked a widespread movement.

The Reformation quickly spread beyond Germany, with key figures like John Calvin in Switzerland and Huldrych Zwingli also advocating for significant reforms. These reformers introduced new theological interpretations and led to the establishment of various Protestant denominations, including Lutheranism, Calvinism, and Anglicanism. The movement had profound social, political, and cultural consequences. It led to religious wars, the division of Christendom, and influenced the development of modern nation-states. The Catholic Church responded with its own Counter-Reformation, addressing some internal issues and reaffirming its core doctrines. The legacy of the Reformation continues to shape religious landscapes and theological thought worldwide.