There is talk of a new astrologer [Nicolaus Copernicus]…
![“There is talk of a new astrologer [Nicolaus Copernicus] who wants to prove that the earth moves and goes around instead of the sky, the sun, the moon, just as if somebody were moving in a carriage or ship might hold that he was sitting still and at rest while the earth and the trees walked and…” quote by Martin Luther](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/a0c/martin-luther-106_astronomy_there-is-talk-of-a-new-astrologer-nicola_561153.jpg)
““There is talk of a new astrologer [Nicolaus Copernicus] who wants to prove that the earth moves and goes around instead of the sky, the sun, the moon, just as if somebody were moving in a carriage or ship might hold that he was sitting still and at rest while the earth and the trees walked and moved. But that is how things are nowadays: when a man wishes to be clever he must . . . invent something special, and the way he does it must needs be the best! The fool wants to turn the whole art of astronomy upside-down. However, as Holy Scripture tells us, so did Joshua bid the sun to stand still and not the earth. [Martin Luther stating his objection to heliocentrism due to his Scripture's geocentrism]””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Luther argues that rejecting geocentrism is clever but contrary to Scripture, insisting the sun stood still for Joshua, not the earth moving.
In simple terms: He opposes heliocentrism using biblical authority.
Key Takeaway
Question biblical literalism over scientific evidence.
Themes
faith
science
authority
interpretation
scripture
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
theological
historical
controversial
When to use this quote
- church debates
- educational curricula
- public policy
- personal belief
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
geocentrism
heliocentrism
biblical literalism
Questions to Reflect On
- How should religious texts inform scientific understanding?
- Can literal interpretations evolve with new knowledge?
A Different Perspective
Science and faith can coexist without dismissing evidence.