Johannes Tauler: 'God in His wisdom has decided that He will reward no works but His own.'

God in His wisdom has decided that He will reward no works but His own.

In his quote, Johannes Tauler, a 14th-century German mystic, ponders the wisdom of God's decision to reward only His own works. This statement encapsulates the belief that humans cannot achieve salvation through their own efforts alone, but must rely on the divine grace and intervention of God. It acknowledges the limitations of human works and underscores the importance of surrendering to a higher power. Tauler's quote invites us to reflect on the deeper meaning of our actions and the intricate relationship between human efforts and divine intervention in the pursuit of salvation.In exploring the concept presented by Tauler, we can delve into a fascinating philosophical concept, existentialism. Existentialism emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and personal responsibility in the face of an uncertain and often absurd world. It is an unexpected addition that allows us to examine the contrasting viewpoints of Tauler's quote and existentialist perspectives.Tauler's assertion that God rewards only His own works challenges existentialism's focus on individual agency and self-creation. According to existentialism, individuals are solely responsible for their own actions, choices, and consequently, the meaning they find in life. The rewards or consequences of their actions are seen as self-determined rather than dependent on a higher power. In contrast, Tauler's quote suggests that salvation and divine rewards are solely attributed to God's work, which may pose a dilemma for those inclined towards existentialist thought.However, one can argue that these seemingly opposing ideologies can harmoniously coexist. Tauler's quote speaks to the recognition of our limitations and the importance of humility before a higher power. It does not negate the existentialist notion of individual responsibility and personal growth but rather complements it with the acknowledgment that our actions are ultimately part of a larger cosmic design. This recognition can provide solace in the face of existential angst, allowing individuals to find meaning and purpose even in the knowledge of the transcendent nature of God's grace.Furthermore, Tauler's quote encourages us to reflect on the nature of "good works" themselves. While existentialists may question the existence of objective moral values, considering them as subjective constructs of human society, Tauler's perspective prompts us to contemplate the possibility of divine standards of goodness. It suggests that our deeds may hold significance not only in the worldly realm but also in an ultimate divine judgment.In conclusion, Johannes Tauler's quote about God rewarding only His own works invites us to reflect on the interplay between human effort and divine intervention in the pursuit of salvation. While existentialism emphasizes individual agency and self-creation, Tauler's perspective introduces the concept of relying on greater powers beyond the scope of human control. Rather than conflicting, these perspectives can coexist, as Tauler's quote reminds us of the limitations of our actions and the humility required to find meaning and purpose in a potentially absurd world. The juxtaposition of these ideas challenges us to delve deeper into the complexities of faith, individual responsibility, and the mysteries of divine grace.