Meister Eckhart: 'The outward work will never be puny if the inward work is great.'

The outward work will never be puny if the inward work is great.

The quote by Meister Eckhart, "The outward work will never be puny if the inward work is great," encapsulates a profound truth about the relationship between our internal state and the actions we manifest in the world. Essentially, it emphasizes that our external endeavors will only be impactful and meaningful if they spring from a place of deep introspection and personal growth. In other words, the quality of our inner work directly influences the effectiveness and significance of our outward expression.At a basic level, the quote suggests that our actions and achievements in the outer world are a reflection of our inner development and character. If we spend time cultivating our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs, tending to our spiritual and emotional well-being, we will naturally radiate those qualities outwardly. When our inner work is great, our external actions will be imbued with authenticity, depth, and purpose, resonating with others in a profound way.The importance of this quote lies in its reminder that true greatness stems from within. Society often places excessive emphasis on external accomplishments, leading many to chase after superficial markers of success such as fame, wealth, or power. However, Meister Eckhart encourages us to shift our focus inward, recognizing that it is through personal growth and self-reflection that we can truly make a lasting impact on the world around us.Now, let's introduce an unexpected philosophical concept to bring an interesting twist to this blog article – the concept of "existence precedes essence." This idea, often connected to the existentialist philosophers Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, stands in contrast to Eckhart's assertion that the inward work shapes the outward.According to the concept of "existence precedes essence," the existentialists argue that humans do not possess a predetermined essence or set of qualities. Instead, they believe that individuals exist first and then define themselves through their actions and choices. In this perspective, our inward work becomes a direct consequence of our outward actions rather than the other way around.While this may seem contradictory at first, upon closer examination, we can reconcile these two philosophies. Both perspectives recognize the importance of action, yet they differ in terms of the directionality. Eckhart's quote suggests that our inner work is the necessary foundation for meaningful external actions, while the existentialists propose that our external actions forge our inner being.In essence, this contrast highlights the intricacies of human existence and the multi-layered nature of our reality. It reminds us that no single philosophical concept can fully capture the complexity of our experiences and the various ways in which our inner and outer worlds interact. Each perspective offers valuable insights into the human condition, emphasizing different aspects of our lives and the paths to personal growth.In conclusion, Meister Eckhart's quote provides an important reminder that the quality of our inward work has a direct impact on the impact and significance of our external actions. By devoting time and effort to nurturing our inner selves, we cultivate the strength and authenticity required to make a meaningful difference in the world. Simultaneously, the concept of "existence precedes essence" interjects an alternative philosophical perspective, challenging us to consider the reciprocal relationship between our inner and outer lives. Ultimately, these contrasting ideas invite us to delve deeper into our own personal journeys and contemplate the intertwined nature of our existence.