Give yourself entirely to God, enter and hide in the hidden ground of your soul.

The quote "Give yourself entirely to God, enter and hide in the hidden ground of your soul" by Johannes Tauler emphasizes the importance of total devotion and inner spiritual reflection in the practice of faith. Tauler, a prominent German mystic of the 14th century, encourages believers to surrender themselves fully to God, seeking a deep and intimate connection beyond external rituals or outward appearances. The phrase “hidden ground of your soul” refers to the inner, quiet space within each person where true communion with God can occur, away from worldly distractions.

Tauler’s quote reflects the mystical tradition in Christianity, which emphasizes direct and personal experience of the divine. By urging individuals to enter and hide within their own souls, he highlights the need for introspection, contemplation, and the cultivation of an inner spiritual life. This internal journey allows one to experience God’s presence in a profound and transformative way, rather than relying solely on external practices, social status, or intellectual understanding of religion.

The origin of this quote lies in Tauler’s role as a teacher of the German Dominican mystical movement, which was influenced by figures like Meister Eckhart. Tauler’s sermons and writings often focused on the themes of union with God, the importance of inner devotion, and the cultivation of personal holiness. He believed that true spiritual growth comes from turning inward, embracing humility, and surrendering the self entirely to the guidance of God.

In essence, this quote is a call for total surrender and spiritual immersion. By encouraging believers to hide in the hidden ground of their souls, Tauler emphasizes that authentic faith is cultivated internally, through deep connection and trust in God. It reminds us that the most profound experiences of divine love and guidance occur not in public display or external observance, but in the quiet, receptive spaces of our own hearts and minds.