D. Martin Luther's Works: Critical Complete Edition, Volume 43
D. Martin Luthers Werke: Kritische Gesamtausgabe. 43. Band
Volume 43 of the Weimar Edition (Kritische Gesamtausgabe) of Luther's works, edited by O. Reichert and published by Hermann Böhlaus Nachfolger in 1912. Contains the continuation of Luther's Lectures on Genesis (In Primum Librum Mose Enarrationes), covering chapters 18–30, delivered at Wittenberg University from 1535 to 1545 and representing one of his most extensive exegetical works. The lectures combine close philological commentary with theological exposition, engaging patristic sources and scholastic interpreters throughout. Also includes supplements and corrections for volumes 42 and 43.
Author
Martin Luther
Martinus Luther
Readings
Lectures on Genesis: Genesis 23:3–4
In Primum Librum Mose Enarrationes: Gen. 23, 3–4
Luther's commentary on Abraham's words to the sons of Heth—"I am a stranger and a sojourner among you"—uses the patriarch's humble request for burial rights as the occasion for an extended treatment of simony. Luther draws on the canonists' definition of simony and the proper use of ecclesiastical revenues, contrasting Abraham's approach with the corruption of Church officials who improperly acquire benefices, burial privileges, and property through simoniacal means. The passage engages extensively with the canonical tradition, Gratian, and the abuses of the papal church in the administration of sacramental and temporal goods.
Martin Luther·1540·Latin·Genesis 23:3–4·p. 277–288Lectures on Genesis: Genesis 25:31–34
In Primum Librum Mose Enarrationes: Gen. 25, 31–34
Luther's commentary on the sale of Esau's birthright reads the episode as a typological account of simony: Esau, who despises his spiritual inheritance for a bowl of lentils, becomes the type of those who traffic in sacred goods for material gain, while Jacob represents the faithful recipient of divine promise. Luther develops this through extended comparison of Esau with papal and monastic hypocrisy, contrasting carnal ostentation with the hidden, suffering life of genuine faith, and using the passage to reflect on the proper valuation of spiritual succession and ecclesiastical office.
Martin Luther·1540·Latin·Genesis 25:31–34·p. 419–432