Did Martin Luther hate Jews

Answer 1

Answer 1

In his later years Luther, having earlier been quite positive about the Jews, ranted and raved, like a thing possessed, without a shred of dignity or self-respect and in the coarsest terms against them. However, his frenzied hatred of the Jews didn't become part of Lutheran doctrine.

Answer 2

This is far too simplistic an answer. Let's begin by noting that Anti-Semitism (Jew-hatred) was existent at the time in which Luther lived and was commonplace. We also have to note that laws were enacted which placed greater burden on the Christian than on the Jew by virtue of the fact that Germany was a "Christian state." For example, usury. Christians were not allowed to charge interest on loans, etc. However, Jews were allowed to because they weren't under Christian law. At the time of Luther, this placed a financial strain on Christian families seeking to purchase lands and goods. Some records even showed Jewish shop owners charging interest for such basics as bread and cheese. Luther was strong in his wording, but his antipathy wasn't without some cause.

Answer 3

Answer #2 is ill-informed. By 1500 Christians in the German lands were charging interest and gentile banking was well established. See the link in the Expert Answer for evidence of Luther's amazing coarseness and sheer hatred of Jews. Luther has been considered one of the premier Anti-Semites in history.

Answer 2

Yes. Martin Luther held immense hatred for Jews, considering them Christkillers and Demons. But rather than have me tell you what he believed, why don't you take a look at his own writings, specifically: On the Jews and Their Lies.