First Book. Chapter Xxiv. Of The Kingdom : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXIV OF THE KINGDOM OF THE SOUL Whosoever wishes to obtain and to keep these virtues should adorn and possess and rule his soul like a kingdom. Free-will is the king of the soul. It is free by nature and still more...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter Xii : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XII OF THE HIGHEST UNION, WITHOUT DIFFERENCE OR DISTINCTION And after this there follows the union without distinction. For you must apprehend the Love of God not only as an outpouring with all good, and as drawing...
Second Book. Chapter Xlii. He Shall Go Out : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XLII HE SHALL GO OUT TOWARDS HIS FRIENDS IN PURGATORY At times the man shall behold his friends in purgatory, and shall consider their misery and their yearnings and their heavy pains. Then shall he pray...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter Xiii : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XIII OF THE THREEFOLD PRAYER OF CHRIST, THAT WE MIGHT BE ONE WITH GOD But you should also observe that His prayer, as it has been written by St John in this same Gospel, was threefold. For He prayed that we might...
First Book. Prologue : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], THE ADORNMENT OF THE SPIRITUAL MARRIAGE HERE BEGINS THE FIRST BOOK PROLOGUE Ecce sponsus venit, exile obviam ei. Behold, the Bridegroom cometh, go ye out to meet him. These words were written by St Matthew the Evangelist...
First Book. Chapter Xxv. Of A Spiritual Meeting : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXV OF A SPIRITUAL MEETING OF GOD AND OURSELVES When a man through the grace of God is able to behold, and his conscience is clean, and he has considered the three comings of Christ our Bridegroom, and when he h...
Second Book. Chapter Xxxvi. The First Rill : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXXVI THE FIRST RILL ADORNS THE MEMORY 50 The first rill of grace, which God causes to flow forth in this coming, is a pure simplicity, shining in the spirit without differentiation. This rill takes its rise...
Second Book. Chapter Xix. Of Spiritual Inebriation : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XIX OF SPIRITUAL INEBRIATION From this rapturous delight 44 springs spiritual inebriation. Spiritual inebriation is this; that a man receives more sensible joy and sweetness than his heart can either cont...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter Viii : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER VIII OF THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE SECRET FRIENDS AND THE HIDDEN SONS OF GOD But further we find a more subtle and inward difference, between the secret friends and the hidden sons of God; and yet both these alike...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter Ii : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER II A SHORT REPETITION OF ALL THE HIGHEST TEACHINGS WRITTEN BY THE AUTHOR Behold, I have said this: that the contemplative lover of God is united with God through means, and also without means, and thirdly, without...
Second Book. Chapter Liv. Of A Loving Strife : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LIV OF A LOVING STRIFE BETWEEN THE SPIRIT OF GOD AND OUR SPIRIT In this storm of love two spirits strive together: the spirit of God and our own spirit. God, through the Holy Ghost, inclines Himself towards us;...
Second Book. Chapter Xxxvii. The Second Rill : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXXVII THE SECOND RILL ENLIGHTENS THE UNDERSTANDING Through inward charity and loving inclination and the faithfulness of God, there arises the second rill from the fulness of grace within the unity of the spirit;...
First Book. Chapter Xiii. Of Obedience : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XIII OF OBEDIENCE From this humility there springs obedience, for none can be inwardly obedient save the humble man. Obedience means an unassuming, submissive, and pliable humour, and a will in readiness for all...
Second Book. Chapter Lxvii. Of Another Kind : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LXVII OF ANOTHER KIND OF PERVERTED MEN Now we find yet another kind of perverted men, who are in some points different from those already described; though they too believe themselves to be exempted from all works...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter Vi. Of The Difference : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER VI OF THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE HIRELINGS AND THE FAITHFUL SERVANTS OF GOD Now you may mark this: that some men receive the gifts of God as hirelings, but others as faithful servants of God; and these differ one...
Second Book. Chapter Xxvi. Another Example : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXVI ANOTHER EXAMPLE And now I will warn you against another thing which may cause great harm. Sometimes in that hot season there falls the honey-dew of a certain false sweetness, which pollutes the fruit...
Second Book. Chapter Iv. Showing How We Should : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER IV SHOWING HOW WE SHOULD FOUND OUR INWARD LIFE ON A FREEDOM FROM IMAGES Now Christ says in ghostly wise in the man who is turned within: Behold. Three things, as I have said, make a man seeing in his inward...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter Xii : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XII OF THE TRANSFIGURATION OF CHRIST ON MOUNT THABOR And so, that the Name of Christ may be exalted and glorified in us, we should follow Him up the mountain of our bare intelligence, 84 even as Peter, James...
Second Book. Chapter Lvii. Of The Essential : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LVII OF THE ESSENTIAL MEETING WITH GOD WITHOUT MEANS IN THE NAKEDNESS OF OUR NATURE Now understand and mark this well. The unity of our spirit has two conditions: it is essential, and it is active. You must know...
Second Book. Chapter Iii. Of The Inflow : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER III From this unity, wherein the spirit is united with God without intermediary, grace and all gifts flow forth: and out of this same unity, where the spirit rests above itself in God, Christ the Eternal Truth says...
Third Book. Chapter Ii. How The Eternal Birth : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER II HOW THE ETERNAL BIRTH OF GOD IS RENEWED WITHOUT INTERRUPTION IN THE NOBILITY OF THE SPIRIT When we have thus become seeing, we can behold in joy the eternal coming of our Bridegroom; and that is the second point...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter Iv : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER IV OF THE MEN WHO PRACTISE A FALSE VACANCY Behold, such folk, by means of a onefold simplification and a natural tendency, are turned in upon the bareness of their own being; and therefore they think eternal life...
Second Book. Chapter Ix. Of Unity Of Heart : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER IX OF UNITY OF HEART Of this ardour there springs unity of heart; for we cannot achieve true unity unless the Spirit of God blows to a flame His fire in our hearts. For this fire makes one with itself and like...
Second Book. Chapter Xli. He Shall Go Out : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XLI At times this same man shall descend towards sinners, with great compassion, and with generous mercy, and shall bring them before God with fervent devotion and with much prayer; bringing to God's remembrance...
Third Book. Chapter Iv. Of A Divine Meeting : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER IV OF A DIVINE MEETING WHICH TAKES PLACE IN THE HIDDENNESS OF OUR SPIRIT When the inward and God-seeing man has thus attained to his Eternal Image, and in this clearness, through the Son, has entered into the bosom...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter Vii : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER VII OF THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE FAITHFUL SERVANTS AND THE SECRET FRIENDS OF GOD We must now observe the great difference which there is between the faithful servants and the inward friends of God. For through...
Second Book. Chapter Xxv. An Example Showing : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXV AN EXAMPLE SHOWING HOW ONE IS HINDERED IN THIS EXERCISE Now I will show you the hindrances and the dangers which he meets with who dwells in the fury of love. In this time, as you have heard, the sun is...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Footnotes : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], 1 Cf. "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", bk. ii. caps. 66-67, and "The Book of Truth", cap. 4. 2 H. Pomerius, "De Origine Monasterii Viridisvallis una cum Vitis Joannis Rusbrochii" ("Analecta Bollandiana", vol. iv...
Second Book. Chapter Xxx. A Parable. How : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXX A PARABLE: HOW ONE MAY BE HINDERED IN THIS FOURTH DEGREE At this season of the year, so soon as the equinox is come, the sun begins to descend and the weather becomes cooler. And then some imprudent men become...
Third Book. Chapter Iii. How Our Spirit Is : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER III HOW OUR SPIRIT IS CALLED TO GO OUT IN CONTEMPLATION AND FRUITION Now the Spirit of God says in the secret outpouring of our spirit: Go ye out, in an eternal contemplation and fruition, according to the way...
Second Book. Chapter Vii. Of The Third Coming : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER VII OF THE THIRD COMING OF OUR LORD The third way in which our Lord comes inwardly is by an inward stirring or touch in the unity of the spirit, wherein are the higher powers of the soul; wherefrom they flow forth...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter Xiv. Here : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XIV HERE THE AUTHOR DECLARES THAT HE SUBMITS ALL THAT HE HAS WRITTEN TO THE JUDGMENT OF HOLY CHURCH Now at this time I cannot set forth my meaning more clearly. In all that I understand, or feel, or have written, I...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter Ix : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER IX Behold, this Eternal Love, which lives within the spirit, and with which it is united without means, gives its light and its grace to all the powers of the soul; and becomes thereby the cause of all the virtues...
Second Book. Chapter Xl. He Shall Go Out : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XL HE SHALL GO OUT TOWARDS GOD AND TOWARDS ALL SAINTS Now understand this: this man shall go out and observe God in His glory with all saints. And he shall behold the rich and generous outflowing of God, with glory...
Untitled : * Jan van Ruysbroeck [b. 1293 or 1294, d. 1381] was a Flemish mystic. He led a life of asuterity, eventually founding a congregation in Groenendaal. His writings were widely circulated in his lifetime and he influenced an entire generation of Christian mystics. He was beatified on Decmber 1st...
Second Book. Chapter Xii. Of Devotion : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XII OF DEVOTION Of this sensible love is born devotion to God and to His glory. For none can have within his heart the hunger of devotion save him who bears within himself a sensible love of God. Where the fire...
Second Book. Chapter Lviii. Showing How One : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LVIII SHOWING HOW ONE IS LIKE UNTO GOD THROUGH GRACE AND UNLIKE UNTO GOD THROUGH MORTAL SIN Now consider this thought earnestly; for if you understand well that which I will now tell you, and that which I have told...
First Book. Chapter Ix. Showing What Christ : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER IX SHOWING WHAT CHRIST WILL DO IN THE DAY OF DOOM In this Judgment Christ, our Bridegroom and our Judge, will reward and punish, according to justice; for He will give every man that which he has earned. He will...
First Book. Chapter Xi. Of A Spiritual Going : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XI OF A SPIRITUAL GOING OUT WITH ALL VIRTUES Now understand and mark this: Christ says, at the beginning of this precept, Behold; and this is done through charity and a pure conscience, as you have heard before...
Second Book. Chapter Xlvii. Showing How Christ : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XLVII SHOWING HOW CHRIST HAS GIVEN HIMSELF TO ALL IN COMMON IN THE SACRAMENT OF THE ALTAR As I will specially praise and glorify this state of being in common, so I find another special treasure which Christ h...
Second Book. Chapter Xlv. How Christ W : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XLV HOW CHRIST WAS, IS, AND EVER WILL BE THE LOVER OF ALL In order that we shall possess and desire this state of being common to all above the other conditions of which we have spoken (because this state is...
First Book. Chapter Xix. Of Generosity : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XIX OF GENEROSITY From this compassion springs generosity; for none can be generous in a supernatural way, with faithfulness and goodwill towards all, save him who has a pitiful heartthough a man may often show...
Second Book. Chapter Xxxiii. Showing How : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXXIII SHOWING HOW THESE FOUR DEGREES IN THEIR PERFECTION ARE FOUND IN CHRIST If we wish to progress rightly in the four aforesaid degrees of the inward exercise which adorn a man's bodily powers and the lower part...
Second Book. Chapter Xlviii. Of The Unity : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XLVIII OF THE UNITY OF THE DIVINE NATURE IN THE TRINITY OF THE PERSONS The most high and superessential Unity of the Divine Nature, where the Father and the Son possess Their nature in the unity of the Holy...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter Xi. Of The Gre : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XI OF THE GREAT DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE BRIGHTNESS OF THE SAINTS AND THE HIGHEST BRIGHTNESS TO WHICH WE CAN ATTAIN IN THIS LIFE There is a great difference between the brightness of the saints and the highest...
Second Book. Chapter Lvi. Showing The Way : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LVI SHOWING THE WAY IN WHICH WE SHALL MEET GOD IN A GHOSTLY MANNER BOTH WITH AND WITHOUT MEANS 55 Now I have shown you how the free and uplifted man becomes, through the grace of God, seeing in his inward practices...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter Iv. Of The Sparkling : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER IV OF THE SPARKLING STONE, AND OF THE NEW NAME WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF THE SECRETS OF GOD And therefore the Spirit of our Lord speaks thus in the Book of the Secrets of God, which St John wrote down: to him th...
First Book. Chapter Xiv. Of The Renunciati : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XIV OF THE RENUNCIATION OF SELF WILL From this obedience there springs the renunciation of one's own will and one's own opinion, for none can submit his own will in all things to the will of another, save...
Second Book. Prologue : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], THE END OF THE FIRST BOOK HERE BEGINS THE SECOND BOOK PROLOGUE The wise virgin, that is the pure soul, having abandoned earthly things, and living according to the virtues for God, has taken in the vessel of her heart...
Second Book. Chapter Xxxiv. Showing How : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXXIV SHOWING HOW A MAN SHOULD LIVE IF HE WOULD BE ENLIGHTENED The man who lives in true obedience and in the moral virtues, according to the commandments of God, and besides this practices the inward virtues...
The Sparkling Stone. Prologue : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], HERE ENDS THE BOOK OF THE ADORNMENT OF THE SPIRITUAL MARRIAGE THE SPARKLING STONE PROLOGUE The man who would live in the most perfect state of Holy Church must be a good and zealous man; an inward and ghostly man;...
Second Book. Chapter Xxxix. Showing How : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXXIX SHOWING HOW THE ESTABLISHED MAN SHALL GO OUT IN FOUR WAYS Now the man who is established in the bonds of love shall dwell in the unity of the spirit; and he shall go out with enlightened reason and with...
First Book. Chapter Xv. Of Patience : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XV OF PATIENCE From the renunciation of self-will springs patience; for none can be perfectly patient in all things save the man who has subjected his own will to the will of God, and also in all profitable...
Second Book. Chapter Viii. How The First : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER VIII HOW THE FIRST COMING HAS FOUR DEGREES The first coming of Christ in the exercise of desire is, as we have said, an inward and sensible thrust of the Holy Ghost, urging and driving us towards all virtues. This...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter Ii. Through : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER II THROUGH THREE THINGS A MAN BECOMES INWARD If, further, this good man would become an inward and ghostly man, he needs must have three further things. The first is a heart unencumbered with images; the second is...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Prologue : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], THE BOOK OF SUPREME TRUTH PROLOGUE The prophet Samuel mourned for King Saul, though he knew well that God had rejected him and his issue from being kings in Israel: this was because of his pride, and because he did not...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter Vii. Showing : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER VII SHOWING WHEREFORE ALL GOOD MEN DO NOT ATTAIN TO THE UNMEDIATED UNION WITH GOD But now you may ask me why all good men do not attain to feel this. Now listen and I will tell you the why and the wherefore. They...
Second Book. Chapter Lxvi. Showing How Some : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LXVI SHOWING HOW SOME MEN LIVE CONTRARY TO THESE EXERCISES Now some men, who seem to be righteous, yet live contrary to these three ways and to every virtue. Let every one observe and prove himself! Every man who...
First Book. Chapter Viii. Of The Third Coming : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER VIII OF THE THIRD COMING OF CHRIST The third coming, which is yet to be, will take place at the Judgment, or in the hour of death. The wherefore of this coming is the fitting time, the due cause...
Second Book. Chapter Xliii. He Shall Go Out : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XLIII HE SHALL GO OUT TOWARDS HIMSELF AND TOWARDS ALL GOOD MEN Now the man shall go out towards himself and towards all men of good-will, and shall taste and behold how that they are tied and bound together...
First Book. Chapter Xviii. Of Compassion : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XVIII OF COMPASSION Out of kindliness springs compassion, which is a fellow-feeling with all men; for none can share the griefs of all, save him who is kind. Compassion is an inward movement of the heart, stirred...
Second Book. Chapter Xxxviii. The Third Rill : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXXVIII THE THIRD RILL ESTABLISHES THE WILL TO EVERY PERFECTION From this gladness and the fulness of grace and the faithfulness of God, there is born and flows forth the third rill in this same unity of the spirit...
Second Book. Chapter Lxii. Showing How We : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LXII SHOWING HOW WE SHOULD GO OUT TO MEET GOD Now mark how, in each of our works, we shall go out to meet God, and shall increase our likeness unto Him, and shall more nobly possess the fruitive unity. By every...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter Xi. How : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XI HOW GOOD MEN IN THEIR CONTEMPLATION HAVE THE LOVE OF GOD BEFORE THEM, AND HOW THEY ARE LIFTED UP INTO GOD They have the Love of God before them in their inward seeing, as a common good pouring forth through...
Second Book. Chapter Xlix. Showing How God : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XLIX SHOWING HOW GOD POSSESSES AND MOVES THE SOUL BOTH IN A NATURAL AND A SUPERNATURAL WAY Now mark well: I will show you an image of this. God has created the highest heaven, a pure and simple Radiance, which...
Third Book. Chapter I. Showing The Three Ways : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], HERE BEGINS THE THIRD BOOK CHAPTER I SHOWING THE THREE WAYS BY WHICH ONE ENTERS INTO THE GOD-SEEING LIFE The inward lover of God, who possesses God in fruitive love, and himself in adhering and active love, and his whole...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter X. How We, Though : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER X HOW WE, THOUGH ONE WITH GOD, MUST ETERNALLY REMAIN OTHER THAN GOD Though I have said before that we are one with God and this is taught us by Holy Writ, yet now I will say that we must eternally remain other th...
First Book. Chapter Vii. Of The Blessed Sacraments : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER VII OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENTS There is still another coming of Christ our Bridegroom, taking place every day, with growth of grace and renewal of gifts. That is, when a man receives some sacrament with a humble...
First Book. Chapter Iii. Of Humility : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER III OF HUMILITY Now understand this: we find in Christ, according to His Godhead, two kinds of humility. The first kind is this: that He willed to become man, and took upon Himself that very nature which had been...
Second Book. Chapter Liii. Of An Eternal : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LIII OF AN ETERNAL HUNGER FOR GOD Here there begins an eternal hunger, which shall never more be satisfied; it is an inward craving and hankering of the loving power and the created spirit after an untreated Good...
First Book. Chapter Xvii. Of Kindliness : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XVII OF KINDLINESS Out of the same source wherein meekness takes its rise springs kindliness, for none can be kind save the meek man. This kindness makes a man show a friendly face, and give a cordial response...
Second Book. Chapter Lxiii. Of The Ordering : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LXIII OF THE ORDERING OF ALL THE VIRTUES THROUGH THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY GHOST Now consider the order and the degrees of all the virtues and of all holiness, with which we should go out to meet God through...
Second Book. Chapter L. Howing How A M : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER L SHOWING HOW A MAN SHOULD BE ADORNED IF HE IS TO RECEIVE THE MOST INWARD EXERCISE Now consider diligently how we can acquire and possess the most inward exercise of our spirit in the created light. The man who is...
Second Book. Chapter V. Of A Three Fold Coming : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER V OF A THREE-FOLD COMING OF OUR LORD IN THE INWARD MAN Even though the eye be clear and the sight keen, if there were no loveworthy and desirable object, clearness of sight would neither please nor profit a m...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter Xiii. How We : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XIII HOW WE OUGHT TO HAVE FRUITION OF GOD If a man would have fruition of God, three things are needful thereto; these are, true peace, inward silence, and loving adherence. Whosoever would find true peace between...
Second Book. Chapter Xxii. Of The Third Degree : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXII OF THE THIRD DEGREE OF THE SPIRITUAL COMING OF CHRIST When the sun has risen in the heavens as high as it can, it stands in the sign of Cancer (which means Crab, because it cannot go further, but begins to go...
First Book. Chapter Xxii. Of Purity : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXII OF PURITY From this temperance there springs purity both of soul and of body, for none can be perfectly pure in body and in soul save him who is temperate in body and in soul. Purity of spirit is this: th...
Second Book. Chapter Li. Of The Third Coming : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LI OF THE THIRD COMING OF CHRIST Through this loving inclination of God, and His inward working in the unity of our spirit, and further through our glowing love and the pressing of all our powers together ...
Second Book. Chapter Xii. A Similitude How : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXI A SIMILITUDE HOW A MAN SHOULD ACT AND BEAR HIMSELF IN THIS CASE Now I will give you a short similitude, that you may not err in this case, but may govern yourselves prudently. You should watch the wise bee...
Title Page : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], JOHN OF RUYSBROECK THE ADORNMENT OF THE SPIRITUAL MARRIAGE THE SPARKLING STONE THE BOOK OF SUPREME TRUTH TRANSLATED FROM THE FLEMISH BY C. A. WYNSCHENK DOM EDITED WITH AN INTRODUCTION AND NOTES BY EVELYN UNDERHILL LONDON:...
First Book. Chapter Xvi. Of Meekness : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XVI OF MEEKNESS From this patience there spring meekness and kindliness, for none can be meek in adversity save the patient man. Meekness gives a man peace and rest in all things. For the meek man can bear...
First Book. Chapter Ii. Showing How We Shall : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER II SHOWING HOW WE SHALL CONSIDER THE COMING OF CHRIST IN THREE WAYS Now, by saying: The Bridegroom cometh, He shows us further what we shall see. Christ, our Bridegroom, spoke this word in Latin: Venit. And this...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter Vi : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER VI OF HEAVENLY WEAL AND HELLISH WOE The most profitable stirrings which such a man can feel, and for which he is best fitted, are heavenly weal and hellish woe, and the ability to respond to these two with fit...
Second Book. Chapter Xv. A Similitude How : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XV A SIMILITUDE HOW WE SHOULD PERFORM THE FIRST DEGREE OF OUR INWARD EXERCISE Now consider in a similitude, how this inward exercise should be performed. When the natural fire has by its heat and power stirred...
Second Book. Chapter Xxvii. A Parable Of The Ant : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXVII A PARABLE OF THE ANT A brief parable I will give to those who dwell in the tumult of love, that they may endure this state nobly and becomingly, and may attain to higher virtues. There is a small insect...
First Book. Chapter Vi. Of Charity : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER IV OF CHARITY The second point is charity, beginning and origin of all virtues. This charity upheld the higher powers of His soul in quietness, and in a fruition of that very bliss which He now enjoys. And this...
First Book. Chapter Xxvi. Of The Desire : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXVI OF THE DESIRE TO KNOW THE BRIDEGROOM IN HIS NATURE A Man who lives this life in its perfection, as it has here been shown, and who is offering up his whole life, and all his works, to the worship and praise...
Second Book. Chapter Lix. Of How God : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LXI OF HOW GOD AND OUR SPIRIT VISIT EACH OTHER IN THE UNITY AND IN THE LIKENESS Now God sees the dwelling and the resting-place which He has made within us and through us; namely, the unity and the likeness. 62...
Second Book. Chapter Xxiii. Of The P : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXIII OF THE PAIN AND RESTLESSNESS OF LOVE Of this inward demand and this invitation, and also because the creature lifts itself up and offers itself, and all that it can do, and yet can neither attain nor acquire...
Second Book. Chapter Lxv. Of Three Kinds : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LXV OF THREE KINDS OF MOST INWARD PRACTICES This most inward life is practised in three ways. At times, the inward man performs his introspection simply, according to the fruitive tendency, above all activity...
First Book. Chapter Xxi. Of Temperance : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXI OF TEMPERANCE AND SOBRIETY From this zeal there spring temperance and sobriety, both inward and outward; for none can possess the right measure of sobriety save him who is greatly zealous and diligent to keep...
Second Book. Chapter.lxiv. Of The Highest : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LXIV OF THE HIGHEST DEGREE OF THE MOST INTERIOR LIFE Now understand this well: that measureless Splendour of God, which together with the incomprehensible brightness, is the cause of all gifts and of all...
Second Book. Chapter Lix. Showing How One : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LIX SHOWING HOW ONE POSSESSES GOD IN UNION AND REST, ABOVE ALL LIKENESS THROUGH GRACE This meeting and this union, which the loving spirit achieves in God and possesses without means, must take place...
Second Book. Chapter Lii. Showing How : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LII SHOWING HOW THE SPIRIT GOES OUT THROUGH THE DIVINE STIRRING Now, through this touch, Christ says inwardly within the spirit: Go ye out with practices in conformity with this touch. For this deep touch draws...
Second Book. Chapter Xlvi. Reproving All : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XLVI REPROVING ALL THOSE WHO LIVE ON SPIRITUAL GOODS IN AN INORDINATE MANNER Now Christ left His treasure and His revenue here on earth. These are the seven sacraments and the outward goods of Holy Church, which He...
First Book. Chapter Xxiii. Of Three Enemies : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXIII OF THREE ENEMIES TO BE OVERCOME BY RIGHTEOUSNESS Now, if we wish to possess these virtues, and to cast out their opposites, we must possess righteousness, and we must practise and preserve it in purity...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter I. Through Three : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER I THROUGH THREE THINGS A MAN BECOMES GOOD Hear now three things which constitute a good man. The first, which a good man must have, is a clean conscience without reproach of mortal sin. And therefore whosoever...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapteriii. Through : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER III THROUGH THREE THINGS A MAN BECOMES GOD-SEEING Further, you must know that if this ghostly man would now become a God-seeing man, he needs must have three other things. The first is the feeling th...
Second Book. Chapter Xxix. Showing Wh : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXIX SHOWING WHAT THE FORSAKEN MAN SHOULD DO Here the man should bethink himself with a humble heart that of his own he has nothing but misery; and he should say in resignation and self-abandonment the words which...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter V. Of The Works : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER V OF THE WORKS WHICH GOD WORKS IN ALL IN COMMON AND OF FIVE KINDS OF SINNERS Hear now what those three works are, which our Lord works in all men if they will submit themselves thereto. The first work which God...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter Xiv. Of Th : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XIV OF THAT COMMON LIFE WHICH COMES FROM THE CONTEMPLATION AND FRUITION OF GOD The man who is sent down by God from these heights into the world is full of truth and rich in all virtues. And he seeks not his own...
First Book. Chapter X. Of The Five Kinds : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER X OF THE FIVE KINDS OF MEN WHO SHALL APPEAR AT THE JUDGMENT Five kinds of men shall appear before this Judge. The first, and the worst, are those Christians who have died in mortal sin, without repentance...
First Book. Chapter Xii. How Humility Is : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XII HOW HUMILITY IS THE FOUNDATION OF ALL OTHER VIRTUES Now consider this: as we have laid down humility as a foundation, so therefore we shall speak of humility first. Humility, that is lowliness or self-abasement...
First Book. Chapter Vi. Of The Second Coming : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER VI OF THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST The second coming of Christ our Bridegroom takes place every day within good men; often and many times, with new graces and gifts, in all those who make themselves ready for it...
First Book. Chapter V. Of Patient Endurance : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER V OF PATIENT ENDURANCE The third point is patient endurance. We should mark this point carefully, for it adorned Christ our Bridegroom during all His life. For His sufferings began very early, as soon as He w...
Second Book. Chapter Xxviii. Of The Fourth : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXVIII OF THE FOURTH DEGREE OF THE COMING OF CHRIST Now we will speak further of the fourth manner of the coming of Christ, uplifting and perfecting a man by inward exercise in the lower part of his being. But...
Second Book. Chapter Lx. Showing How We Have : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LX SHOWING HOW WE HAVE NEED OF THE GRACE OF GOD, WHICH MAKES US LIKE UNTO GOD AND LEADS US TO GOD WITHOUT MEANS Now all holiness and all blessedness lie in this: that the spirit is led upwards, through likeness...
Second Book. Chapter Xvi. Another Similitude : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XVI ANOTHER SIMILITUDE CONCERNING THE SAME EXERCISE When summer draws near and the sun rises higher, it draws the moisture out of the earth through the roots, and through the trunks of the trees, into the twigs;...
Second Book. Chapter Xx. What May Hinder : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XX WHAT MAY HINDER A MAN IN THIS INEBRIATION When, however, this coming and this degree are granted to such men as first begin to turn from the world; even though their conversion be perfect, and they have...
Second Book. Chapter Xviii. Of The Pure Delight : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XVIII OF THE PURE DELIGHT OF THE HEART AND THE SENSIBLE POWERS From this sweetness there springs a well-being of the heart and of all the bodily powers, so that a man thinks himself to be inwardly enfolded...
Second Book. Chapter Ii. Of A Three Fold : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER II OF A THREE-FOLD UNITY WHICH IS IN US BY NATURE Now mark this with diligence: a threefold unity is found in all men by nature, and also in all good men according to a supernatural manner. The first and highest...
Second Book. Chapter Xiv. Of Two Griefs Which : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XIV OF TWO GRIEFS WHICH ARISE FROM INWARD GRATITUDE From inward gratitude and praise there arises a two fold grief of the heart and torment of desire. The first grief is, that we feel ourselves to lag behind...
Second Book. Chapter Xi. Of Sensible Love : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XI OF SENSIBLE LOVE From inwardness there springs a sensible love, which fulfills the man's heart and the desirous power of the soul. This yearning love, and this sensible fruition of the heart, none can have save...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter Iii : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER III OF THE UNION THROUGH MEANS And next, I will say that all good men are united with God through means. These means are the grace of God, and the sacraments of Holy Church, and the Divine virtues, faith, hope...
Second Book. Chapter Xxxi. Of Another Hindrance : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXXI OF ANOTHER HINDRANCE If a man thus falls into sickness and cold, he is sometimes caught by dropsy, that is to say, he has an inclination towards the outward possession of earthly things. The more such men...
Second Book. Chapter Xiii. Of Gratitude : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XIII OF GRATITUDE Inward devotion often brings forth gratitude; for none can thank and praise God so well as the inward and devout man. And it is just that we should thank and praise God, because He has created us...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter Viii : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER VIII SHOWING HOW THE INWARD MAN SHOULD EXERCISE HIMSELF, THAT HE MAY BE UNITED WITH GOD WITHOUT MEANS But now I will tell you how the inward man, who has health amidst all miseries, should feel himself to be one...
The Sparkling Stone. Chapter Ix. How We May : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER IX HOW WE MAY BECOME HIDDEN SONS OF GOD, AND ATTAIN TO THE GOD-SEEING LIFE But I still longed to know how we may become hidden sons of God, and may attain to the God-seeing life. And as to this I have apprehended...
Second Book. Chapter X. Of Inwardness : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER X OF INWARDNESS From this unity springs inwardness; for none can be inward save him who is gathered together in unity within himself. Inwardness means that a man is turned within, into his own heart, that thereby...
First Book. Chapter I. Of The Active Life : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER I OF THE ACTIVE LIFE Since the time of Adam, Christ, the Wisdom of the Father, has said to all men, and He says so still, inwardly according to His Divinity: Behold. And this beholding is needful. Now mark this...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter X : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER X OF THE MUTUAL CONTENTMENT OF THE DIVINE PERSONS, AND THE MUTUAL CONTENTMENT BETWEEN GOD AND GOOD MEN And so you may perceive that the Divine Nature eternally works according to the Persons, and is eternally idle...
Second Book. Chapter Vi. Of The Second Coming : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER VI OF THE SECOND COMING OF OUR LORD IN THE INWARD MAN The second way in which Christ comes inwardly, with a higher nobleness, more after His likeness, with increased gifts, and with a greater radiance, is a pouring...
Second Book. Chapter I. How We Achieve Supernatural : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER I HOW WE ACHIEVE SUPERNATURAL SIGHT IN OUR INWARD WORKINGS Now concerning the first point. Christ says: Behold. Whosoever wishes to see in a supernatural way in his inward exercises must have three things...
Second Book. Chapter Lv. Of The Fruitful : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER LV OF THE FRUITFUL WORKS OF THE SPIRIT, THE WHICH ARE ETERNAL Now our spirit and this love are living and fruitful in virtues; and for this reason the powers can no longer remain idle in the unity of the spirit...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter I. Wherefore : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER I WHEREFORE THIS BOOK WAS WRITTEN Certain of my friends have desired and besought me, that I should show and make plain in a few words and according to my best cunning, shortly and clearly, how I underst...
Second Book. Chapter Xxxv. Of The Second : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXXV OF THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST, OR, THE FOUNTAIN WITH THREE RILLS Now we will speak further of the second manner of the coming of Christ, in those inward exercises by which a man is adorned, enlightened...
Introduction : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], INTRODUCTION I Jan van Ruysbroeck--three of whose most important works are here for the first time presented to English readers--is the greatest of the Flemish mystics, and must take high rank in any list of Christi...
First Book. Chapter Xx. Of Zeal And Diligence : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XX OF ZEAL AND DILIGENCE Out of this generosity there spring a supernatural zeal and diligence in all virtues and all that is seemly. And none can feel this zeal save him who overflows with generosity. It is...
Second Book. Chapter Xliv. Showing How We : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XLIV SHOWING HOW WE MAY RECOGNISE THOSE MEN WHO FAIL IN CHARITY TO ALL There are some men who are very subtle in words, and skilful in showing forth high things, and yet do not enjoy this enlightened conditi...
The Book Of Supreme Truth. Chapter V : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER V OF THE UNION WITHOUT MEANS You may remember that I showed heretofore how all saints and all good men are united with God through means. Now I will further show to you how they are all united with God without...
Second Book. Chapter Xxiv. Of Ecstacies : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXIV OF ECSTACIES AND DIVINE REVELATIONS By this fierce ardour and this impatience some men are at times caught into the spirit, above the senses; and there words are spoken to them and images and similitudes shown...
Second Book. Chapter Xvii. Of The Second : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XVII OF THE SECOND DEGREE OF OUR INWARD EXERCISE, WHICH INCREASES INWARDNESS BY HUMILITY But, having likened the four degrees of the first coming of Christ to the splendour and the power of the sun, we also find...
Second Book. Chapter Xxxii. Of Four Kinds : * "The Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", by Jan van Ruysbroeck, [1916], CHAPTER XXXII OF FOUR KINDS OF FEVER WHEREWITH A MAN MAY BE TORMENTED Those men who are full of noxious humours, that is to say, full of inordinate inclination towards bodily comfort and towards foreign and creaturely...
