One of my big pet peeves in historical criticism is when an individual is praised uncritically, despite the fact they were a troubling character. I think it is always important to hold a complex understanding of important historical figures, to avoid whitewashing historical events to fit a certain narrative.
In my experience, Martin Luther is usually treated as such. Many Christian circles often praise Luther, as if he were a superhero, without critically examining his life or the historical fall out of his ideas or events.
Now… don’t get me wrong. Luther was a genius and was certainly a theological revolutionary of his time. But what we all need to see, especially in characters that have shaped our own understanding of society, is how this character affected those who may not share the same historical benefits. How did Luther’s uncontrollable rhetoric affect those who disagreed with him? How did Luther’s bloody cry for massacre affect the Anabaptist of his time? How did he contribute to antisemitism? And ultimately, how did the great Church split create bloody religious battles both in Europe and in theological circles?
The point of this is not to turn a nose at Luther. But this type of thinking helps us understand how complex historical events can be, and how even “positive events” hold different social implications depending on your social standing. This knowledge is always important when we want to create unity among diversity, because active empathy in our reflection and our speech can make room in our lives and our societies for people who may see things differently. We don’t always need to be one great loving family, but we need to be aware and sensitive to others to coexist.
That’s why I was so touched by the Tree garden that I found in Wittenberg. Last year was the “500 year” Reformation anniversary and the Lutherans in Wittenberg wanted to celebrate. However, though they knew that the Protestant and Catholic Church split may have been necessary, it was not a joyous event. This act had birthed many difficult political issues. And yet, it was an important event for European history. So how do we commemorate it?
They ended up deciding to make a “tree garden” where any one ( usually church groups) can plant a tree if they wish. The garden is supposed to represent togetherness, as a garden, but also individual growth through the trees. And then they invited the Catholic church and other leading denominations to plant a tree alongside them in to order to continue the work of reconciliation. I found that to be a beautiful, beautiful gesture.
Below are pictures from my trip:
