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A Mediaeval Mystic A Short Account of the Life and Writings of Blessed John Ruysbroeck, Canon Regular of Groenendael A.D. 1293-1381 Book Cover

A Mediaeval Mystic A Short Account of the Life and Writings of Blessed John Ruysbroeck, Canon Regular of Groenendael A.D. 1293-1381 Book Summary

This book, "A Mediaeval Mystic" by Evelyn Underhill, offers a concise yet deeply insightful biography of John Ruysbroeck (also spelled Ruisbroeck), a 14th-century Flemish mystic and Augustinian canon. Underhill, a prominent scholar of mysticism, doesn't simply recount Ruysbroeck's life; she aims to introduce his complex and beautiful spiritual writings to a wider audience, contextualizing them within the historical and religious landscape of his time. It's a relatively short read, but packed with theological nuance and a profound understanding of the contemplative life.
The book chronicles the life of John Ruysbroeck, from his early years and education to his eventual role as prior of the Groenendael monastery. However, the core focus isn't a chronological narrative, but rather an exploration of Ruysbroeck's mystical journey and the development of his theological ideas. Underhill meticulously explains his key works – *The Sparkling Stone*, *The Bird of the Soul*, and *The Kingdom of the Lovers of God* – breaking down their complex symbolism and illustrating how they represent a unique and powerful path to union with the divine. It's about a man who sought, and found, a direct, experiential relationship with God, bypassing intellectual understanding in favor of intuitive, loving connection.

One of the central lessons from Ruysbroeck's work, as explained by Underhill, is the concept of the 'spiritual birth.' He believed that true spiritual growth wasn't about accumulating virtues or adhering to rules, but about undergoing a radical inner transformation – a death to the self and a birth into a new, divine life. This isn't a one-time event, but a series of stages, moving from the 'active life' of outward practice to the 'interior life' of contemplation, and finally to 'union' with God. Think of it like a seed: it must break open and die to its former self to sprout and grow into something new and beautiful.

Ruysbroeck also emphasizes the importance of 'spiritual poverty' – a complete emptying of the self before God. He argued that our own desires, thoughts, and even our good intentions can become obstacles to divine grace. True receptivity, he believed, requires a willingness to let go of everything we cling to, including our sense of self. This is a challenging idea, as it asks us to confront our ego and recognize our dependence on something greater than ourselves. It's about realizing that we have nothing to offer God except our emptiness, and that it is in that emptiness that He can fill us.

A particularly striking aspect of Ruysbroeck's mysticism is his use of imagery, especially the image of the 'bird of the soul' soaring towards God. This isn't merely poetic language; it's a carefully constructed metaphor for the soul's ascent through the different stages of contemplation. The bird represents the soul, the forest represents the world of sense and reason, and the open sky represents the divine realm. The journey is arduous, fraught with obstacles, but ultimately rewarding, leading to a blissful union with the beloved. This illustrates how Ruysbroeck used vivid, relatable imagery to convey profound spiritual truths.

Finally, Ruysbroeck’s work stresses the loving nature of the divine. He doesn’t portray God as a distant, judgmental figure, but as an overflowing source of love, actively seeking union with all creation. This love isn’t earned, but freely given, and our response should be one of reciprocal love and surrender. This emphasis on divine love distinguishes Ruysbroeck from more austere or legalistic approaches to spirituality, offering a message of hope and encouragement to those seeking a closer relationship with God.

  • You are interested in medieval history and religious thought.
  • You are exploring Christian mysticism and contemplative practices.
  • You appreciate nuanced theological discussions, even if they are complex.
  • You are looking for a deeper understanding of the spiritual life beyond superficiality.
  • You enjoy reading about the lives of saints and mystics.
Yes, absolutely. In our modern, often materialistic and fragmented world, Ruysbroeck's emphasis on inner transformation, the importance of love, and the search for meaning resonates deeply. His teachings offer a powerful antidote to the anxieties and superficialities of contemporary life, reminding us of the possibility of a direct, experiential relationship with the divine. The need for stillness, contemplation, and a connection to something larger than ourselves is arguably even more pressing today than it was in the 14th century.
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"A Mediaeval Mystic" is a valuable introduction to the life and work of John Ruysbroeck, a spiritual giant whose insights continue to inspire and challenge readers centuries later. Underhill’s clear and insightful prose makes Ruysbroeck’s complex ideas accessible, offering a glimpse into a profound and transformative mystical tradition. It’s a book that rewards careful reading and contemplation, and one that can leave a lasting impact on your own spiritual journey.
Tags : History - Medieval/The Middle Ages Philosophy & Ethics Religion/Spirituality/Paranormal