Exsurge Domine

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Exsurge Domine

Exsurge Domine was a papal bull issued on June 15, 1520 by Pope Leo X in response to the teachings of Martin Luther in opposition to the papacy stated in his 95 theses and subsequent writings. The Latin title, Exsurge Domine is translated into English as Arise, O Lord.

Title page of first printed edition of Exurge Domine

While the bull did not directly condemn all the points of Luther's doctrines, it did specifically demand that Luther retract 41 of his 95 theses as well as other specified errors within sixty days of its publication in neighbouring regions to Saxony. This time expired on December 10, 1520, which was the day on which Luther burned his copy of this bull along with volumes of Canon law by the Elster Gate in Wittenberg. This book burning was in reaction to Johann Eck's procedure of burning Luther's books after he had published the bull in various places in Germany. As he burned his copy of the bull, Luther is reported to have said, "Because you have confounded the truth [or, the saints] of God, today the Lord confounds you. Into the fire with you!" reminiscent of Psalm 21:10[9].^[1]

Because Luther refused to comply, the pope issued the bull Decet Romanum Pontificem on January 3, 1521, excommunicating him.

The Vatican's copy of Exsurge Domine is still extant in the Vatican Library. When it is shown to visitors they are told, "You know what Luther did with his copy."