Johann Tetzel
Johann Tetzel (
1465-
August 11,
1519) was a German
Dominican friar who is perhaps best known for selling
indulgences during the 16th century. In 1517, Tetzel was trying to raise money for the ongoing construction of
St. Peter's Basilica and it is believed that
Martin Luther was inspired to write his
95 Theses, in part, due to Tetzel's actions during this period.
Johan Tetzel was born in
Pirna,
Saxony.
He studied
theology and
philosophy at the
university of his native city, entered the Dominican order in 1489, achieved some success as a preacher, and was in 1502 commissioned by the pope to preach the jubilee indulgence, which he did throughout his life. In 1509 he was made an
inquisitor, and in 1517
Pope Leo X made him commissioner of indulgences for all
Germany.
He acquired the degree of licentiate of theology in the
University of Frankfurt an der Oder, 1517, and that of doctor of theology, 1518, by defending, in two disputations, the doctrine of indulgences against Luther. The accusation that he sold full forgiveness for
sins not yet committed, caused great scandal; Luther considered his actions evil, and began to preach openly against him.
|
An indulgence, 1517. Translation: With the Authority of all Saints and with mercy for you, I free you of all sins and crimes and excuse you from all punishments for ten days â€" Johann Tetzel. |
He was also condemned (though later pardoned) for immorality. It became necessary to disavow Tetzel; and, when he discovered that
Karl von Miltitz had accused him of perpetrating numerous
frauds and
embezzlements, he withdrew, frightened, into the Dominican monastery in Leipzig. He died in Leipzig in 1519. At the time of his death, Tetzel had fallen into disrepute and was shunned by the public. Yet, on his deathbed, Tetzel received a kind correspondence from Martin Luther, stating that he was not to blame for the whole ordeal, and offering his consolations.
*
"Johann Tetzel" in the 1912 Catholic Encyclopedia*
"A Primer on Indulgences" by James Akin
