Indulgences

Definition

Indulgences were certificates sold by the Catholic Church during the Renaissance that granted forgiveness for sins. They were believed to reduce time in purgatory and could be purchased by individuals or on behalf of deceased loved ones.

Related terms

Purgatory: A place between heaven and hell where souls are purified before entering heaven.

Martin Luther:

A German monk who protested against the sale of indulgences and sparked the Protestant Reformation.

Tetzel: Johann Tetzel was a Dominican friar known for his aggressive selling of indulgences, which angered Martin Luther.