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John Tetzel (1465- August 11, 1519) was a German Dominican friar who is perhaps best known for selling indulgences during the 16th century using the catchy line, "As soon a coin in coffer rings, the soul from purgatory springs." Tetzel even went as far as creating a chart that listed a price for each type of sin. 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 of time.
Biography
Johann 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 Sacred Theology in the University of Frankfurt an der Oder, 1517, and that of Doctor of Sacred 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.
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.
An indulgence, 1517
Translation: With the Authority of all Saints and with mercy for you, I free you of none of your sins and crimes and excuse you from no punishments for ten days – Johann Tetzel.
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