Luther Rose
The Luther Rose, also known as the Luther Seal, is easily the
most recognized symbol for Lutheranism, and for good reason. Martin Luther
personally oversaw the creation of this symbol. It provides a beautiful
summary of his faith, a faith that is common to all Christians, of every
place and every time. Here is how Luther explained the meaning of his seal:
"Grace and peace from the Lord. As you desire to know whether my painted
seal, which you sent to me, has hit the mark, I shall answer most amiably
and tell you my original thoughts and reason about why my seal is a symbol
of my theology. The first should be a black cross in a heart, which retains
its natural color, so that I myself would be reminded that faith in the
Crucified saves us. For one who believes from the heart will be justified"
(Rom. 10:10). Although it is indeed a black cross, which mortifies and which
should also cause pain, it leaves the heart in its natural color. It does
not corrupt nature, that is, it does not kill but keeps alive. "The just
shall live by faith" (Rom. 1:17) but by faith in the crucified. Such a heart
should stand in the middle of a white rose, to show that faith gives joy,
comfort, and peace. In other words, it places the believer into a white,
joyous rose, for this faith does not give peace and joy like the world gives
(John 14:27). That is why the rose should be white and not red, for white is
the color of the spirits and the angels (cf. Matthew 28:3; John 20:12). Such
a rose should stand in a sky-blue field, symbolizing that such joy in spirit
and faith is a beginning of the heavenly future joy, which begins already,
but is grasped in hope, not yet revealed. And around this field is a golden
ring, symbolizing that such blessedness in Heaven lasts forever and has no
end. Such blessedness is exquisite, beyond all joy and goods, just as gold
is the most valuable, most precious and best metal. This is my compendium
theoligae [summary of theology]. I have wanted to show it to you in good
friendship, hoping for your appreciation. May Christ, our beloved Lord, be
with your spirit until the life hereafter. Amen."
Page Last Updated: 06/04/2011