Johannes Tauler
Johannes Tauler: A 14th-Century Mystic and Spiritual Leader
Full Name and Common Aliases
Johannes Tauler's full name is Johannes von Tautel or Johannes Tauler of Strasbourg. He was a German Dominican friar, known for his mystical writings and teachings on spiritual growth.
Birth and Death Dates
Tauler was born around 1300 AD in Strasbourg, Alsace (now part of France), and died on June 16, 1361, also in Strasbourg.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: German
Profession: Dominican friar, mystic, spiritual leader
Early Life and Background
Little is known about Tauler's early life. He was born into a family of modest means and received little formal education. At the age of 20, he joined the Dominican Order in Strasbourg and began his studies to become a priest.
During this time, Tauler developed a deep interest in spirituality and mysticism, which would later become the focus of his teachings. He spent many years studying theology, philosophy, and the Bible, as well as practicing spiritual exercises such as meditation and contemplation.
Major Accomplishments
Tauler's most significant accomplishments were his writings on spirituality and his role as a spiritual leader to the people of Strasbourg. His works include sermons, letters, and treatises on mystical themes, which emphasized the importance of living a simple, humble life in accordance with God's will.
One of Tauler's most notable teachings is the concept of "the cloud of unknowing," which refers to the state of spiritual awareness that lies beyond human understanding. He believed that true spirituality involves surrendering one's ego and desires to God, allowing oneself to be guided by divine love and wisdom.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Tauler's most notable works include:
Sermons on the Passion: A collection of sermons on the life and death of Christ, which explore themes such as suffering, sacrifice, and redemption.
The Book of the Nine Flowers: A mystical treatise that explores the symbolism of flowers in relation to spiritual growth.
Letters to his friends: Tauler's letters offer practical advice on how to live a more spiritual life, including guidelines for prayer, fasting, and self-reflection.
Tauler's teachings had a profound impact on the people of Strasbourg, who saw him as a spiritual guide and leader. His sermons and writings continue to inspire seekers of spirituality today.
Impact and Legacy
Johannes Tauler's legacy is that of a mystic and spiritual teacher whose writings and teachings have inspired countless individuals over the centuries. His emphasis on living a simple, humble life in accordance with God's will has resonated with people from all walks of life.
Tauler's influence can be seen in various areas:
Spiritual literature: Tauler's works have influenced many other spiritual writers and mystics, including Meister Eckhart and Julian of Norwich.
Devotional practices: His emphasis on prayer, fasting, and self-reflection has inspired the development of various devotional practices throughout history.
Christian mysticism: Tauler's teachings have contributed to the growth of Christian mysticism, which continues to be a vital part of many Christian traditions today.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Johannes Tauler is widely quoted and remembered for his profound insights into human nature and the spiritual life. His emphasis on living in accordance with God's will has inspired countless individuals to cultivate greater humility, compassion, and self-awareness.
Tauler's teachings continue to be relevant today because they offer a timeless message about the importance of living a simple, authentic life guided by divine love and wisdom. His legacy serves as a reminder that true spirituality is not about achieving some ideal state, but rather about embracing the present moment with an open heart and mind.
As we reflect on Tauler's life and teachings, we are reminded of the power of spiritual growth to transform our lives and the world around us. His story inspires us to embark on our own journey of self-discovery, cultivating greater humility, compassion, and wisdom in all that we do.
Quotes by Johannes Tauler
Johannes Tauler's insights on:
He who desires to become a spiritual man must not be ever taking note of others, and above all of their sins, lest he fall into wrath and bitterness, and a judging spirit towards his neighbors.
God does not lead all His servants by one road, nor in one way, nor at one time; for God is in all things; and that man is not serving God aright, who can only serve Him in his own self-chosen way.
For where there is true love, a man is neither out of measure lifted up by prosperity, nor cast down by mishap; whether you give or take away from him, so long as he keeps his beloved, he has a spring of inward peace. Thus, even though thy outward man grieve, or weep downright, that may well be borne, if only thy inner man remain at peace, perfectly content with the will of God.
God is infinite and without end, but the soul's desire is an abyss which cannot be filled except by a Good which is infinite; and the more ardently the soul longeth after God, the more she wills to long after him; for God is a Good without drawback, and a well of living water without bottom, and the soul is made in the image of God, and therefore it is created to know and love God.
In the kingdom of heaven it is His work that will be crowned, not yours. Anything in you that He has not wrought Himself will count for nothing.
Judge yourself; if you sincerely and humbly do that, you will not be judged by God.
Judge yourself; if you do that you will not be judged by God, as St. Paul says. But it must be a real sense of your own sinfulness, not an artificial humility.