An Open Letter on Translating

In this spirited open letter, Martin Luther confronts the heated debate over how Scripture should be rendered into the vernacular. Writing from Nuremberg in 1530, he replies to a friend’s challenges about his German translation of Romans and the role of the saints, defending his choice to render “justified by faith” without the contested word “alone.” Luther’s tone is both defiant and earnest, portraying translation as a service to believers who lack knowledge of Hebrew or Greek while sharply critiquing his opponents’ competence.

The essay blends theological argument with personal reflection, illustrating the Reformation’s struggle to make the Bible accessible to ordinary people. Readers hear Luther explain why he entrusted his work to no one else, emphasizing honesty, humility, and the hard labor required for faithful translation. The piece offers a vivid glimpse into 16th‑century controversies that shaped modern biblical scholarship, inviting listeners to ponder the responsibilities of translators and the lasting impact of their choices.