Meaning: The quote "Man goes far away or near but God never goes far-off; he is always standing close at hand, and even if he cannot stay within he goes no further than the door" by Meister Eckhart, a 13th-century German philosopher and mystic, encapsulates a profound spiritual insight. Meister Eckhart was known for his deep understanding of the relationship between the human soul and the divine, and this quote reflects his belief in the omnipresence and immanence of God.

In this quote, Meister Eckhart expresses the idea that human beings may wander far from their spiritual center or feel distant from the divine, but God is never truly far away. Regardless of how distant or near we perceive ourselves to be from God, the divine presence is always close at hand. This notion challenges the traditional understanding of distance and proximity in the context of the divine-human relationship. Unlike physical distance, which can create a sense of separation, the spiritual proximity of God remains constant and unwavering.

The first part of the quote, "Man goes far away or near but God never goes far-off," emphasizes the transient nature of human experiences and the variability of our spiritual journeys. It acknowledges that human beings may feel distant from God at times due to their actions, emotions, or circumstances. However, Meister Eckhart asserts that regardless of our perceived distance, God's presence remains steadfast and unchanging.

The second part of the quote, "he is always standing close at hand, and even if he cannot stay within he goes no further than the door," conveys the idea that God is ever-present, ready to welcome us back into divine communion. The metaphor of God standing close at hand and never going further than the door suggests a sense of accessibility and readiness to embrace the returning soul. Even when we feel that we are outside the realm of divine grace, God's presence is depicted as being just a step away, waiting for us to open the door and invite the divine back into our lives.

Meister Eckhart's teachings often centered on the concept of detachment and letting go of the ego to attain spiritual union with the divine. Through this quote, he encourages individuals to recognize that God's presence transcends physical and emotional distances, and the divine is always within reach, no matter how far we may feel from it.

This quote also reflects the mystical tradition's emphasis on the immanence of God, which refers to the belief that the divine is present and active within the world and the human soul. Meister Eckhart's words convey a sense of reassurance and hope, reminding us that even in moments of spiritual desolation or perceived distance from the divine, God remains near and accessible.

In conclusion, Meister Eckhart's quote encapsulates a timeless spiritual truth about the ever-present nature of God's proximity to the human soul. It serves as a reminder that regardless of how far we may stray or feel from the divine, God's presence is unwavering, always standing close at hand, and ready to welcome us back into the embrace of divine love and grace.

This quote continues to inspire and resonate with individuals seeking solace, guidance, and a deeper understanding of their spiritual journey, reaffirming the enduring wisdom of Meister Eckhart's mystical insights.