Meister Eckhart: 'The eye with which I see God is the same eye with which God sees me.'

The eye with which I see God is the same eye with which God sees me.

The quote by Meister Eckhart, 'The eye with which I see God is the same eye with which God sees me,' is a profound declaration that speaks to the inherent interconnectedness between human beings and the divine. In a straightforward manner, this quote suggests that the same faculty within us that enables perception and understanding also serves as a means for perceiving and understanding God. Moreover, it implies that our perspective is not limited to our own subjective experience but extends to a divine vantage point. This notion bears great significance as it challenges the traditional separation between humanity and the divine, inviting us to explore our inherent divinity and the limitless potential it entails.However, to truly delve into the depths of this quote, it is essential to introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that can bring a new perspective and ignite curiosity. Imagine for a moment a concept known as panentheism, which posits that God is both immanent and transcendent, existing within the world and yet beyond it. Panentheism acknowledges that the divine not only permeates all aspects of existence but also transcends any and all limitations imposed upon it. This viewpoint allows us to recognize that the 'eye' through which we perceive God is not confined to a singular human perspective but encompasses all perspectives — that of every living being and every facet of creation.Understanding this distinction helps illustrate the subtle yet significant contrast between seeing God and being seen by God. It implies that our perception of the divine is not limited to our individual lens but is also influenced by the collective consciousness of all living beings. In a way, our ability to see God is an invitation to partake in a shared perception, woven through the tapestry of existence itself. This realization opens the door to a profound understanding of our interconnectedness and our role in the overarching fabric of creation.Moreover, this concept challenges us to question our preconceived notions of God's omniscience. If the eye with which we see God is the same eye with which God sees us, it suggests that our perceptions, experiences, and consciousness are not separate from that of the divine. We are not merely 'seen' by God in a passive manner but actively participate in the divine gaze. In this dynamic relationship, our subjective experience is elevated, validated, and even co-creative.Furthermore, when we consider the possible implications of this quote on our daily lives, we can begin to cultivate a deeper sense of reverence and mindfulness. Recognizing that the same eye with which we perceive the world is interconnected with the divine, we become aware of our responsibility to nurture and expand our capacity for perception, understanding, and connection. By aligning our awareness with the divine's ability to 'see,' we can tap into an intuitive wisdom that transcends the limitations of our ego-driven viewpoints.In conclusion, Meister Eckhart's quote, 'The eye with which I see God is the same eye with which God sees me,' guides us towards a profound understanding of our connection to the divine. By embracing the notion of panentheism and recognizing our shared perspective with all living beings, we can broaden our understanding of God's presence and our role within the grand tapestry of existence. This quote invites us to shed the limitations of our egos, expand our awareness, and embrace our innate divinity. In doing so, we open ourselves to a deeper connection with the divine and cultivate a greater sense of purpose and interconnectedness in our lives.