Meister Eckhart was a German theologian, philosopher and one of the great Christian mystics, born near Erfurt, in Thuringia.
Meister is German for "Master", referring to the academic title Magister in theologia he obtained in Paris. He became a Parisian Professor of Theology and took a leading pastoral and organizational role in the Dominican Order.
Coming into prominence during the decadent Avignon Papacy and a time of increased tensions between the Franciscans and Eckhart's Dominican Order of Preacher Friars, he was brought up on charges later in life before the local Franciscan-led Inquisition. Tried as a heretic by Pope John XXII, his "Defence" is famous for his reasoned arguments to all challenged articles of his writing and his refutation of heretical intent.
He purportedly died before his verdict was received, although no record of his death or burial site has ever been discovered.
Meister Eckhart has gained a large following in recent years. The depth and universality of Eckhart's teaching has drawn seekers of truth, Christian and non-Christian alike. His radical and penetrating insight makes him a natural point of reference for a genuinely spiritual understanding.
Since 1980 steps have been taken by the Dominican Order, supported by lay people and friends, to seek an official declaration from the Pope in order to acknowledge "the exemplary character of Eckhart's activity and preaching and to recommend his writings (particularly the spiritual works, treatises and sermons) as an expression of authentic Christian mysticism and as trustworthy guides to the Christian life according to the spirit of the gospel".
Meister Eckhart has influenced profoundly the contemporary spiritual teacher Eckhart Tolle who changed his first name as a reference to this great mystic.
