“War is the greatest plague that can afflict humanity, it destroys religion, it destroys states, it destroys families. Any scourge is preferable to it.”
- November 10, 1483 – February 18, 1546
- Born in the Holy Roman Empire (Germany)
- Reformer, theologian
- Promoted the Protestant Reformation and published the Ninety-five Theses
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Quote
“War is the greatest plague that can afflict humanity, it destroys religion, it destroys states, it destroys families. Any scourge is preferable to it.”
Explanation
In this quote, Martin Luther passionately condemns the devastating consequences of war. He argues that war is the ultimate calamity, as it not only causes physical destruction but also undermines the very foundations of society—religion, states, and families. By highlighting these aspects, Luther emphasizes that war’s impact is all-encompassing, affecting not only the political and economic structures but also the moral and spiritual fabric of humanity. The statement “any scourge is preferable to it” suggests that, in Luther’s view, even other forms of suffering or hardship are less destructive than the chaos and disintegration caused by war.
Luther’s perspective comes from his lived experience during a time of religious and political upheaval in the 16th century, particularly during the Reformation and the violent conflicts between Catholics and Protestants. These wars were not only battles for religious dominance but also for control over states and territories, leading to widespread suffering. Luther, who was deeply committed to the spread of the Gospel and the well-being of society, understood that war not only disrupted faith and morality but also tore apart families, communities, and even nations. His belief in the sanctity of peace led him to view war as a spiritual and societal tragedy.
In the modern world, this quote remains relevant in the context of both global conflicts and the ongoing search for peaceful solutions. It serves as a stark reminder of the toll war takes on individuals, communities, and nations, as well as the long-lasting damage it causes. Today, this sentiment can be seen in global efforts to avoid war through diplomacy, peacebuilding, and conflict resolution. For example, the post-World War II era saw the formation of international bodies like the United Nations, which was founded to prevent the kinds of wars Luther feared, and to promote peace, cooperation, and reconciliation. The quote underscores the importance of striving for peace and seeking alternative methods for resolving disputes to avoid the devastation that war inevitably brings.
