Meister Eckhart: 'What a man takes in by contemplation, that he pours out in love.'

What a man takes in by contemplation, that he pours out in love.

In his profound statement, Meister Eckhart encapsulates the transformative power of contemplation and its profound influence on one's capacity for love. Simply put, when an individual immerses themselves in deep reflection and contemplation, they absorb profound wisdom, understanding, and insights. And it is this wealth of inner knowledge that they are then able to pour out, express, and embody through acts of love and compassion. This quote serves as a reminder that the journey of self-discovery and enlightenment is intimately connected to our ability to emanate love towards others.Contemplation, as Meister Eckhart suggests, is not merely a passive exercise but an active process of internalizing wisdom and spiritual understanding. It involves engaging with ideas, experiences, and emotions on a deeper level, allowing them to permeate one's being. This deliberate immersion enables us to expand our perspectives, develop empathy, and nurture a heightened sense of awareness. Through contemplation, we refine our understanding of the world and our place within it, ultimately deepening our connection with ourselves and others.While the relationship between contemplation and love may seem intuitive, there exists an unexpected concept that sheds further light on this connection – philosophical alchemy. Alchemy, traditionally associated with transforming base metals into gold, can also be understood as an inner transformation of one's consciousness and being. Just as alchemists sought to transmute base metals into precious ones, we have the potential to transmute our inner selves through contemplation and love.In the alchemical process, it is essential to undergo a phase called the "Great Work," which involves self-reflection, introspection, and the exploration of hidden depths within oneself. Similarly, contemplation serves as a catalyst for our personal Great Work, enabling us to delve into our core essence and extract profound insights. As we delve deeper into our inner realms, we illuminate the darker corners of our consciousness, allowing us to transform any negativity into love, compassion, and understanding.There is an inherent interchangeability between contemplation and the alchemical process. Just as alchemists refine and purify base materials, the introspective journey through contemplation purifies our consciousness, allowing us to reveal and express our highest qualities. Transmuting base desires and negative emotions into their golden counterparts, we become vessels of love, radiating kindness, and understanding towards others.While contemplation encourages internal transformation, it is equally crucial to manifest this newfound wisdom through acts of love. The process becomes cyclical: as we engage in contemplation, we deepen our capacity for love, and reciprocally, expressed love enriches our contemplative practice. This reciprocal relationship creates a continuous cycle of growth and expansion, producing a harmonious existence where contemplation and love are seamlessly intertwined.In conclusion, Meister Eckhart's profound quote resonates deeply within us as it highlights the infinite potential residing within each individual. Through contemplation, we tap into the wellspring of wisdom, understanding, and compassion within us. The alchemical process unfolds as our inner transformation - from base to gold - is mirrored in our expression of love and compassion towards others. Ultimately, this reciprocal relationship cultivates a profound connection with ourselves, others, and the world, fostering a more harmonious and enlightened existence. So, let us embrace the power of contemplation and, in turn, allow love to pour forth from our transformed beings.