Paul Eber's theme is one that has captured the attention of many over the years. Whether it's his impact on society, his relevance in popular culture, or his importance in history, Paul Eber has left a significant mark on the world. In this article, we will further explore the meaning and influence of Paul Eber, as well as its relevance today. From its origins to its current impact, we will discover how Paul Eber has shaped and will continue to shape various aspects of our lives. Whether you are familiar with Paul Eber or a newcomer to its importance, this article aims to provide a comprehensive and insightful look at the topic.
Paul Eber | |
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Born | 8 November 1511 |
Died | 10 December 1569 | (aged 58)
Education | University of Wittenberg |
Occupations |
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Organizations | University of Wittenberg |
Paul Eber (8 November 1511 – 10 December 1569) was a German Lutheran theologian, reformer and hymnwriter, known for the hymn for the dying, "Herr Jesu Christ, wahr Mensch und Gott".
He was born at Kitzingen in Franconia, and was educated at Nuremberg then Wittenberg, where he became the close friend of Philipp Melanchthon. In 1541 he was appointed professor of Latin grammar at Wittenberg, and in 1557 professor of the Old Testament at Wittenberg University. His range of learning was wide, and he published a handbook of Jewish history, a historical calendar intended to supersede the Roman Saints' Calendar, and a revision of the Latin Old Testament.
He was an effective preacher and faithful collaborator of Melanchthon. A proponent of a mild Lutheran doctrine, he played an important role in the theological conflicts of the time, trying to mediate between the extreme tendencies, particularly between the Gnesio-Lutherans and the Crypto-Calvinists.
From 1559 to the close of his life he was superintendent general of the electorate of Saxony. He attained some fame as a hymn writer, his best-known composition being Wenn wir in höchsten Nöten sein.
In Wittenberg he lived on the north east corner of Kirchplatz/Judenstrasse, close to the Stadtkirche.
He died at Wittenberg on 10 December 1569. He is buried near the altar in St Mary's Church (Stadtkirche Wittenberg). The grave is less than 100m from his home.
In 1573 Lucas Cranach the Younger created a memorial painting, showing Eber in the Garden of Gethsemane in the church.
Johann Sebastian Bach composed in 1725 a chorale cantata on his hymn in eight stanzas, Herr Jesu Christ, wahr' Mensch und Gott, BWV 127. Bach also composed a church cantata "Herr Gott, dich loben alle wir" BWV 130, based on the eponymous hymn in twelve stanzas by Paul Eber (1554).