This quote describes a state of ultimate humility and openness, where the self has dissolved. By relinquishing personal ego and will ('is nothing'), the soul becomes a vessel capable of receiving all divine grace and giving back completely, without reservation, illustrating profound spiritual selflessness.
Quote by Marguerite Porete: “Such a Soul receives all and gives all, because she herself is nothing.”
Such a Soul receives all and gives all, because she herself is nothing.
Insight
Historical Context
This reflects her controversial idea of the 'annihilated soul,' which had achieved a direct, unmediated union with God, a concept seen as heresy by the Church due to its perceived disregard for religious rites and mediation.
About the Author
Medieval French mystic and author of The Mirror of Simple Souls, written in the late 13th century. She taught that the soul must annihilate itself in union with divine love, a doctrine the Church found heretical. She was burned at the stake in Paris in 1310 rather than recant her writings.
View all quotes by Marguerite Porete