Meaning: The quote by Bede Griffiths, a clergyman and spiritual teacher, encapsulates a profound and transformative experience of spiritual awakening. In this quote, Griffiths reflects on a pivotal moment in his life when he was humbled by a profound sense of nothingness, leading to a spiritual rebirth and a fundamental shift in his perception of the world. Through his words, Griffiths conveys the profound insight that by relinquishing the egocentric view of the world, one can gain a deeper awareness of the divine presence in all aspects of life.

The first part of the quote, "God had brought me to my knees and made me acknowledge my own nothingness," reflects a moment of profound humility and surrender. This experience of being brought to one's knees symbolizes a state of utter vulnerability and submission, where one is stripped of all pretense and self-importance. Griffiths acknowledges his own nothingness, which can be interpreted as a recognition of the limitations of the ego and the realization of the transitory nature of the self. This acknowledgment of nothingness can be seen as a pivotal step in the spiritual journey, as it paves the way for a profound transformation and a shift in consciousness.

The subsequent phrase, "and out of that knowledge I had been reborn," highlights the transformative power of this realization. By embracing his own nothingness, Griffiths experiences a spiritual rebirth, signifying a fundamental shift in his understanding of self and the world. This rebirth can be understood as a process of shedding the layers of ego and illusion to unveil a deeper, more authentic self that is in harmony with the divine.

The quote continues with the assertion, "I was no longer the centre of my life and therefore I could see God in everything." Here, Griffiths emphasizes the shift from a self-centered perspective to a more expansive and inclusive awareness. By relinquishing the position of being the center of his life, Griffiths opens himself to a broader, more interconnected view of the world. This shift in perspective allows him to perceive the presence of God in everything, indicating a profound sense of interconnectedness and divine immanence in the fabric of existence.

Griffiths' words convey a universal spiritual truth that transcends religious boundaries. The experience he describes reflects a common theme in various spiritual traditions – the idea of self-transcendence and the recognition of the divine in all things. This shift in perception aligns with the concept of mindfulness and presence, where one becomes attuned to the sacredness of every moment and every being.

In conclusion, Bede Griffiths' quote encapsulates a profound spiritual journey from self-acknowledgment of nothingness to a transcendent rebirth and a shift in perception. His words invite contemplation on the transformative power of humility and the potential for a profound shift in consciousness that allows one to perceive the divine in the fabric of existence. This quote serves as an invitation to explore the possibility of transcending the limitations of the ego and embracing a more expansive, interconnected, and spiritually attuned way of experiencing the world.