The Flow of Contemplation and Love

Meister Eckhart's profound assertion, "What we receive in contemplation we give out in love," invites us to explore the intricate relationship between inner stillness and outward expression. This quote encapsulates the essence of spiritual practice, suggesting that the depth of our contemplative experiences directly informs our capacity to love and serve others. In a world often characterized by haste and distraction, Eckhart's words remind us that true love is not merely an emotion but a manifestation of the insights gained through deep reflection and connection with the divine.

As we delve deeper into this quote, we uncover layers of meaning that resonate with the core of human experience. Contemplation, in this context, is not a passive state but an active engagement with the divine presence within us. It is through this engagement that we cultivate a reservoir of love, which then flows outward into our relationships and interactions. The stakes are high; in a society that often prioritizes superficial connections, Eckhart's wisdom beckons us to return to the wellspring of our inner lives, where genuine love is born and nurtured.

The image / the metaphor

The imagery in Eckhart's quote evokes a sense of reciprocity between the inner and outer worlds. The act of receiving in contemplation suggests a deep, almost mystical engagement with the divine, where one becomes a vessel for spiritual insights. The verbs "receive" and "give" highlight a dynamic flow, emphasizing that contemplation is not a solitary act but a transformative process that shapes our capacity to love. This flow is akin to a river, where the waters of contemplation nourish the banks of love, allowing it to flourish and spread.

Diving deeper into the metaphor, we can envision contemplation as a fertile soil, rich with nutrients that sustain the growth of love. Just as a plant draws sustenance from the earth, we draw from our contemplative practice the strength and clarity needed to express love authentically. This interconnectedness suggests that our ability to love is directly proportional to the depth of our inner life; the more we cultivate our spiritual garden, the more vibrant and abundant our expressions of love become.

In the speaker's tradition

Meister Eckhart's teachings are deeply rooted in the Christian mystical tradition, which emphasizes the transformative power of direct experience with the divine. Concepts such as kenosis, or self-emptying, resonate with Eckhart's assertion, as they highlight the necessity of relinquishing the ego to fully receive divine love. This aligns with the notion of dharma in Eastern traditions, where the realization of one's true nature leads to compassionate action in the world. In both contexts, the inner journey is seen as essential for authentic outward expression.

In Eckhart's own writings, particularly in his German Sermons, he often speaks of the soul's union with God, suggesting that this union is the source from which love flows. For instance, he states, "The eye with which I see God is the same eye with which God sees me." This profound interconnectedness underscores the idea that our contemplative experiences are not merely personal but are part of a larger divine tapestry. The insights gained in contemplation become the very fabric of our loving interactions, weaving together the sacred and the mundane.

Living the teaching

Consider a modern scenario where this teaching can be applied: a busy professional grappling with the demands of work and family life. In the midst of deadlines and responsibilities, the individual takes time for contemplation, perhaps through meditation or quiet reflection. This intentional pause allows them to reconnect with their inner self, drawing forth a sense of peace and clarity. As they emerge from this contemplative space, they find themselves more patient and compassionate, able to approach their loved ones with a renewed sense of presence and love.

Another application of Eckhart's teaching can be found in the context of relationships, particularly during challenging moments. Imagine a couple facing a disagreement, where emotions run high and misunderstandings abound. If one partner takes a step back to engage in contemplation, they may gain insights into their own feelings and motivations. This inner work allows them to return to the conversation with a heart open to understanding, transforming potential conflict into an opportunity for deeper connection and love. In both scenarios, the flow from contemplation to love becomes a powerful catalyst for healing and growth.

A reflection

As we reflect on Eckhart's profound words, we are invited to consider how our own contemplative practices shape our capacity to love. What insights have we received in moments of stillness that we can share with others? In what ways can we deepen our engagement with contemplation to enhance our expressions of love in the world? These questions serve as a gentle reminder that the journey of inner exploration is not an end in itself but a means to enrich our relationships and contribute to the greater tapestry of human connection.