In 1523, Swiss theologian Ulrich Zwingli launched his program of Iconoclasm in the city of Zurich. Born in Switzerland, Zwingli’s goal was to reform the church and restore it to its Biblical foundations. He sought to do this through a process of iconoclasm, which involves the destruction of icons, images, and statues that are seen as idolatrous. The destruction of icons was a hallmark of the Protestant Reformation which marked a turning point in the history of Christianity.

Zwingli’s iconoclasm was seen as a radical departure from the Catholic Church’s emphasis on ritual and worship of idols and artifacts. He argued that the worship of graven images was idolatry and should be abolished. He also argued that the clergy should no longer be supported by the people as this encouraged a form of spiritual servitude. Instead, the clergy should be supported by the state and only those who were truly called by God should be in leadership positions.

Zwingli’s program of iconoclasm caused widespread disruption in Zurich and eventually led to civil war. In 1529, he was killed in battle and although he did not achieve his goals, his legacy remains. His Iconoclasm has been seen as a major influence on modern Protestantism and has been adopted by a number of other religious denominations.

Today, Iconoclasm is still an important part of many religious traditions, although it is not often practiced in the same way that Zwingli used it. In the Protestant tradition, it is used to challenge religious institutions and authorities that are seen as corrupt or out of touch with the teachings of the Bible. Iconoclasm is also used to challenge the excessive veneration of saints and images, which is seen as a form of idolatry.

In conclusion, Ulrich Zwingli’s program of Iconoclasm in Zurich had a lasting impact on Protestantism and is still practiced today. His challenge to the corruption and excess of the Catholic Church has been seen as a major contribution to the Reformation, and his legacy continues to give guidance to religious denominations worldwide.