Meister Eckhart was a famous German philosopher and mystic who lived in the 13th century. His teachings focus on spirituality and understanding our connection to God. Many of his quotes inspire people to think deeply about life, love, and the nature of existence. Eckhart’s words encourage us to look within ourselves and find peace in our everyday lives.
Today, we will share some of Meister Eckhart’s most thought-provoking quotes. These sayings remind us to appreciate the present moment and embrace our inner thoughts. Whether you are looking for inspiration or a new perspective on life, his quotes have something valuable to offer everyone.
Meister Eckhart Quotes
“The eye with which I see God is the same eye with which God sees me.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote beautifully reminds us of our deep connection to God and how we perceive divinity within ourselves. Each of us holds a part of God and, in turn, is seen by Him. It’s a comforting idea that brings us closer to trust and love, showing us that our view of God is not separate but intertwined with His gaze upon us.
“The most important thing is to be at home in yourself.” – Meister Eckhart
Being at home in ourselves means finding peace and comfort within our own identity. It encourages us to embrace who we are, with all our strengths and flaws. When we are comfortable in our own skin, we can face the world with courage and openness, allowing our true selves to shine through.
“God is not found in the soul by adding anything but by a process of subtraction.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote points to the significance of letting go of our distractions and unnecessary burdens. Instead of trying to add to our faith or knowledge, we can deepen our spiritual journey by removing the doubts, fears, and preconceptions that distance us from God. It’s a liberating thought that encourages simplicity.
“The soul’s seed is love, and you can tell if you have it by how you treat others.” – Meister Eckhart
Love is the true essence of our soul, and our actions towards others reflect this. When we treat others with kindness, compassion, and empathy, we show that love is alive within us. This quote inspires us to cultivate love in our daily interactions, remembering that our behavior reveals our inner spirit.
“It is better to have a heart without words than words without a heart.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote highlights the value of authenticity and sincerity. Speaking from the heart resonates more deeply than empty words. It encourages us to communicate with genuine feelings, fostering meaningful connections with others. True expression is rooted in our emotions, giving it a profound impact.
“Where there is no love, there is no God.” – Meister Eckhart
In this quote, Eckhart reminds us that love is the essence of God. Without love, we cannot fully experience or understand His presence. By embracing love in our lives, we open the door to a relationship with the Divine, making love a central theme in our spiritual journey.
“A man can be in love with God without a single prayer.” – Meister Eckhart
This emphasizes that our love for God is not limited to rituals and prayers. It encourages us to recognize that our actions, thoughts, and feelings can express our love just as much, making every moment an opportunity to connect with the Divine, no matter how we do it.
“You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of.” – Meister Eckhart
Happiness comes from within, and constantly seeking it outside can lead to disappointment. This quote encourages us to shift our focus from chasing after happiness to appreciating the simple joys in life. Finding contentment in the present moment can bring us a deeper sense of fulfillment.
“The great thing in the world is not so much where we stand as in what direction we are moving.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote inspires us to focus on our growth and progress rather than just our current circumstances. It reminds us that the path we choose is more important than our starting point, encouraging us to embrace change and strive towards becoming better versions of ourselves.
“If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough.” – Meister Eckhart
Gratitude holds incredible power in our lives. By recognizing and appreciating the good things around us, we cultivate a more positive mindset. This quote encourages us to practice gratitude daily, no matter the circumstances, and it shows that a simple thank you can transform our outlook on life.
“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, but must be felt with the heart.” – Meister Eckhart
True beauty lies in our emotions and experiences that words can’t fully express. This quote inspires us to connect with feelings of love, joy, and compassion. By trusting our hearts, we can discover the profound and beautiful aspects of life that create lasting connections with ourselves and others.
“Love is the cradle of the soul.” – Meister Eckhart
Here, love is described as a nurturing force that nurtures our very essence. It reminds us that love shapes our identity and encourages us to foster relationships that uplift and support our souls. By embracing love, we can cultivate a more compassionate existence for ourselves and those around us.
“In the soul, there is no greater love than the heart’s willingness to suffer.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote highlights the profound strength found in love, even amidst pain and suffering. It reminds us that love often requires sacrifices, inviting us to embrace both joy and sorrow as we grow. In suffering, we can deepen our understanding of love, making it more powerful and transformative.
“The only thing that lasts is love.” – Meister Eckhart
This statement emphasizes that material possessions and accomplishments are temporary, but love endures beyond our lifetimes. It encourages us to prioritize love and relationships over temporary achievements, reminding us that the love we give and receive shapes our legacy.
“Everything that is born in this world is born of love.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote suggests that love is the source of all creation and life. It reminds us to recognize the beauty of love in our surroundings and how it nurtures our existence. By appreciating love’s role, we can deepen our connection to the world and each other.
“The true meaning of life is to live life for others.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote encourages us to put others first and to cultivate a spirit of giving. By being selfless and contributing to the well-being of others, we find a greater meaning in our lives. It serves as a reminder that connection and community are essential aspects of our human experience.
“When you go into prayer, see to it that you leave your own ideas behind.” – Meister Eckhart
Approaching prayer with an open mind allows us to experience a genuine connection with God. By setting aside our preconceptions, we create space for divine guidance and love to enter our hearts. This encourages us to embrace humility and openness in our spiritual practices.
“No one knows the truth but only he who possesses it.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote implies that truth is a deeply personal experience. Each of us has our understanding, and it often reveals itself through introspection and connection with our hearts. By seeking our personal truths, we cultivate a stronger sense of self and spiritual awareness.
“Love is a primal word; it is a means to God and the good.” – Meister Eckhart
This statement highlights the idea that love is a fundamental expression of our spirituality. It serves as a bridge that connects us to the good and divine. By nurturing love in our lives, we strengthen our relationship with God and the goodness that exists within and around us.
“No one can be God for you; only you can be God for yourself.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and personal responsibility in our spiritual journey. We must explore our connection to the divine on our own terms and allow our understanding of God to grow. It invites us to embrace our individuality in faith and spirituality.
“If the only way you can show love is by keeping it to yourself, then be silent.” – Meister Eckhart
This thought encourages us to express our love openly instead of holding it inside. By sharing our affection and support with others, we create stronger bonds and foster compassion. This quote reminds us that love thrives on openness and communication, enriching our lives and the lives of those around us.
“When you let go of what you are, you become what you might be.” – Meister Eckhart
Letting go of our preconceptions and limitations opens the door to growth and self-discovery. This quote inspires us to embrace change and remain courageous in our pursuit of bettering ourselves. By releasing what holds us back, we allow our true potential to emerge.
“There is nothing so simple as love, and yet nothing so complex.” – Meister Eckhart
This paradox reminds us that love is at the core of our lives, but understanding the many layers of love can be challenging. We are encouraged to embrace the complexity of love, recognizing its various expressions and the important roles they play in our relationships.
“To find God in our hearts is the most difficult thing, but it is also the most beautiful.” – Meister Eckhart
Seeking God’s presence within ourselves can be a challenging journey. This quote encourages us to embrace the struggle, recognizing that the beauty of our inner spiritual connection makes the effort worthwhile. The journey to discover this truth enriches our lives in profound ways.
“One must be willing to give up the life they planned, in order to have the life that is waiting for them.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote suggests that sometimes we must relinquish our fixed ideas for a brighter path. By being open to unexpected opportunities, we can discover new and fulfilling experiences. This mindset encourages resilience and adaptability as we navigate our lives.
“He who would be a man must be more than a man.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote speaks to the idea that true greatness lies in transcending our ordinary selves. To be truly human means to strive for higher ideals, embracing compassion, wisdom, and love. It encourages us to develop our character and purpose through self-improvement.
“What is true happiness? It is the little things, like a sunset or a secret smile.” – Meister Eckhart
Happiness often finds its root in simple pleasures and moments of beauty. This quote invites us to appreciate life’s small joys that enrich our experiences. By focusing on these moments, we can cultivate deeper happiness and contentment in our daily lives.
“The greatest gift is the ability to forget yourself for the sake of another.” – Meister Eckhart
Selflessness is a beautiful expression of love. This quote encourages us to prioritize the needs and well-being of others, reminding us that true fulfillment comes when we give ourselves freely. In doing so, we create stronger connections and a more compassionate world.
“The birth of love is the birth of the soul.” – Meister Eckhart
This idea links love and our spiritual essence. It suggests that love is at the heart of our being and allows us to experience our true self. By nurturing love, we cultivate our souls and connect with our higher purpose.
“You will find God when you seek Him, but only when you have no expectations.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote encourages an open heart and mind in our spiritual pursuits. By letting go of our expectations, we create space for new experiences and recognition of God’s presence. This openness allows for a genuine connection with the Divine.
“All that is born shall die, but love is eternal.” – Meister Eckhart
This profound statement reminds us of the permanence of love despite life’s temporary nature. While everything else may fade away, the love we share and create lasts forever. It invites us to cherish and nurture love in our lives for a lasting impact.
“We are all just walking each other home.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote highlights the importance of community and mutual support in our journeys. It reminds us that we are not alone in navigating life’s challenges; we walk together as humans, offering help and companionship. By doing so, we can create a loving and nurturing environment.
“You must learn to know your own heart, and give it the freedom to grow.” – Meister Eckhart
Understanding our hearts is essential to personal growth. This quote encourages us to explore our emotions, desires, and fears, allowing us to develop. By granting ourselves permission to feel and grow, we can cultivate a more authentic life.
“Empty yourself of everything that is not love.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote challenges us to let go of negativity and distractions that prevent us from embracing love fully. By removing doubts, fears, and insecurities, we create space for growth and connection. This practice leads us to a more fulfilled and enriched life.
“To love in the way that God loves is to love without conditions.” – Meister Eckhart
This statement encourages us to practice unconditional love, where we don’t attach expectations to our emotions. By opening our hearts to love without limitations, we create deeper connections and foster understanding and compassion in our relationships.
“Be willing to be a fool for love.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in love. Sometimes, allowing ourselves to be foolish or open-hearted is a sign of strength, leading to deep connections and fulfilling relationships. It encourages us to embrace authenticity and honesty in our love for others.
“The wisest person knows that they know nothing at all without love.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote implies that knowledge without love lacks true meaning and depth. It points to the significance of love as a guiding force in our lives. By valuing love in our pursuit of wisdom, we create meaningful connections and foster understanding in our interactions.
“A good man brings forth goodness from the goodness that flows in his heart.” – Meister Eckhart
This statement highlights how our inner character influences our actions. When we nurture goodness within ourselves, it shines through in our behavior. It encourages us to cultivate kindness and compassion at our core, creating a ripple effect of positivity in the world.
“Do not be content with the small things; instead, seek the highest good.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote encourages us to strive for more than just ordinary experiences. It motivates us to seek out the extraordinary in our lives and pursue the highest form of goodness. This pursuit can lead us to a richer and more fulfilling existence.
“God has one Son and He is the knowledge of God.” – Meister Eckhart
This statement emphasizes the importance of knowing God on a personal level. It invites us to develop a relationship with the Divine through our understanding and experience. By deepening our knowledge, we can cultivate a more meaningful spiritual journey.
“What we seek is not found by seeking, but by allowing.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote speaks to the importance of patience and acceptance in our spiritual journeys. Rather than chasing after enlightenment, we should create an environment in which it can naturally arise. Embracing this mindset allows for growth without the pressure of expectations.
“Man takes great delight in the presence of God, but most of all he is delighting in the joy of His appearance.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote signifies the joy that comes from connecting with the Divine. By delighting in God’s presence, we cultivate a sense of wonder and appreciation. This invites us to foster mindfulness in our spiritual practices and recognize the beauty in our connection with God.
“He who seeks God is a beloved of God.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote reminds us that the act of seeking God signifies our love for Him. When we pursue a relationship with the Divine, we become cherished in return. This mutual love creates a rich bond, leading to spiritual fulfillment and understanding.
“The world is a mirror, reflecting back to us what we show it.” – Meister Eckhart
This statement highlights the impact of our attitudes and behaviors on our surroundings. By approaching the world with love and kindness, we encourage a similar response from others. It serves as a reminder that our actions shape our experiences, promoting positivity in our lives.
“To be a saint is to be a love with your whole being.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote emphasizes the powerful connection between love and spirituality. Being a saint goes beyond religious practices; it encompasses living a life filled with love and compassion. By embodying love, we can contribute to a more loving and compassionate world.
“True freedom lies beyond the chains of our minds.” – Meister Eckhart
Our thoughts can often restrict our sense of freedom. This quote encourages us to transcend the limiting beliefs that confine us. By freeing our minds, we can explore new possibilities and perspectives, leading to a more liberated and fulfilling life.
“In all things, seek the greatest good, for this is where God will meet you.” – Meister Eckhart
This quote highlights the importance of prioritizing goodness in our actions. By seeking the greater good, we align ourselves with the Divine, creating a pathway for meaningful connection with God. It encourages us to keep love and kindness at the forefront of our lives.
“Your heart is the altar where love burns. – Meister Eckhart
This quote invites us to nurture love within our hearts, treating it as a sacred space. When we tend to this altar and allow love to flourish, it radiates outward, impacting our relationships and the world around us. It serves as a reminder of our inner capacity for love.
“To love is to be alive and to grow.” – Meister Eckhart
Love is not merely an emotion; it is an essential part of our existence. This quote encourages us to foster love in our lives as a means of personal and spiritual growth. By embracing love, we enhance our experiences and cultivate deeper connections with ourselves and others.
Final Thoughts
In reflecting on Meister Eckhart’s profound quotes, we have the opportunity to deepen our understanding of love, spirituality, and our connection with one another. His thoughts encourage us to focus on the beauty within ourselves and the world around us. By aligning our hearts with love and compassion, we can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As we explore these ideas, we can take small steps towards embracing the present moment, letting go of negativity, and nurturing our relationships. We each have the potential to shape our lives and the lives of others through acts of love, kindness, and understanding. Let’s remember to carry these teachings with us.
If you’d like to explore more thought-provoking topics, consider reading about the lesser-known quotes by Meister Eckhart. This may offer even more insights into his profound teachings. We can all benefit from his wisdom and perspective.