Theologia Germanica
Theologia Germanica is a highly devotional work that offers insights into the religious philosophy of its unknown author, a deeply religious philosopher with mystical and philosophical interests.
W.R. Inge delves into 'Theologia Germanica,' a profound treatise from the fourteenth century by an unknown author associated with the Gottesfreunde in Germany. This work, influenced by the German mystical school of Eckhart, explores speculative mysticism and devout spirituality akin to Thomas a Kempis. The author's deep religious insights make this treatise a must-read for all seeking profound devotional works, showcasing the essence of religious philosophy.
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The "Theologia Germanica," an isolated treatise of no great length by an unknown author, was written towards the end of the fourteenth century by one of the Gottesfreunde, a widespread association of pious souls in Germany. He is said to have been "a priest and warden of the house of the Teutonic Order at Frankfort." His book is both the latest and one of the most important productions of the German mystical school founded by Eckhart. The author is a deeply religious philosopher, as much interested in speculative mysticism as Eckhart himself, but as thoroughly penetrated with devout feeling as Thomas ˆ Kempis.
The treatise should be read by all, as one of the very best devotional works in any language.
My only reason for not translating it in full here is that a good English translation already exists,[30] so that it seemed unnecessary to offer a new one to the public. I have therefore only translated a few characteristic passages, which are very far from exhausting its beauties, and a few of the more striking aphorisms, which indicate the main points in the religious philosophy of the writer.
Sermon Outline
- Introduction to Theologia Germanica
- Characteristics of the author
- Reason for not translating the treatise in full
- Existence of a good English translation
- Importance of highlighting key passages and aphorisms
Key Quotes
“His book is both the latest and one of the most important productions of the German mystical school founded by Eckhart.” — W.R. Inge
“The author is a deeply religious philosopher, as much interested in speculative mysticism as Eckhart himself, but as thoroughly penetrated with devout feeling as Thomas Kempis.” — W.R. Inge
Application Points
- Read Theologia Germanica as a devotional work to deepen your understanding of religious philosophy and mysticism.
- Reflect on the importance of devout feeling and spirituality in your own life.
- Explore the writings of Eckhart and Thomas Kempis for further insights into mystical and philosophical thought.