What is the practice of purchasing indulgences associated with in terms of religious reform?

The practice of purchasing indulgences is closely associated with the reform of Catholic Church practices, particularly during the period leading up to the Protestant Reformation. Indulgences were certificates that the Church sold, which purportedly offered forgiveness for sins and reduced time in purgatory. This practice created significant controversy and dissatisfaction among the laity and clergy alike, as it was seen as a corruption of the true spiritual principles of Christianity.

The sale of indulgences became a focal point for reformers like Martin Luther, who argued that salvation could not be bought and that it was a gift from God accessible through faith alone. His Ninety-Five Theses, which criticized the Church's sale of indulgences, sparked widespread debate and ultimately contributed to the movement for reforms within the Catholic Church. These events significantly transformed Christianity and led to the rise of Protestantism, making it a critical issue within the larger scope of religious reform. Therefore, identifying the correct association with the reform of Catholic Church practices is essential for understanding the historical context and impact of indulgences in this pivotal period.