Martin Luther’s theology sometimes defies explanation. Luther can be an enigmatic and mysterious fellow. Just when you think you understand him he goes and offers the following advice. So what does Luther suggest for battling depression and despair?
Never be alone. Act foolish and play. Drink a good deal. It would even be a good idea to commit a sin — but not a gross one (Martin Luther, quoted in Martin Luther by Martin Marty [New York: Viking/Penguin, 2004], p. 181).
This statement comes from a private letter to his children’s tutor, Jerome Weller, so perhaps he doesn’t mean for this to be a normative piece of advice. But I certainly find it funny.
