He studied at Herborn Academy, which could enjoy an upswing during his rule, and in France.
After completing his studies, he served in the Dutch army, where he reached the rank of commander.
When his uncle Adolph died without a male heir in 1676, he inherited Nassau-Schaumburg as well.
He tried unsuccessfully to claim the inheritance of his father-in-law, George III of Brieg.
He married in 1663 with Dorothea Elizabeth, the daughter of Duke George III of Brieg.