Pope urban ii biography of barack

Promising the pardon of sins, righteous conduct and the wealth of the Holy Lands, Christian knights from across Europe heeded his call, leading to two centuries of conflict in the Holy Land and radically changing European and middle-eastern history. Urban II was born in Lagery, France. From an early age, he pursued a career in the church.

He became prior of the nearby abbey Gluny, and later was promoted to cardinal-bishop of Ostia. He became an ally of Pope Gregory VII who was leading reforms to the church, such as cracking down on corruption selling of church offices and centralising power in Rome with the pope. Urban II continued the Gregorian reforms but with a degree of flexibility and awareness of political possibilities.

He was successful in gaining the support of influential figures in Europe to strengthen his position against the rival pope but continued to be strict in maintaining standards and continue the Gregorian reforms. Urban II was influenced by reports from Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos, who wanted help against the Muslim Seljuk Turks, but the call for a crusade went far further than anyone expected.

Where was pope urban ii born

Urban II stated that anyone who took part would see their sins forgiven by God and go straight to Heaven. He also appealed to a wider set of motives saying that the Holy Lands were richer than the crowded countries of Western Europe. I say this to those who are present, it is meant also for those who are absent. All who die by the way, whether by land or by sea, or in battle against the pagans, shall have immediate remission of sins.