Meaning: The quote "Nothing hath separated us from God but our own will, or rather our own will is our separation from God" by William Law, a clergyman and theologian, encapsulates a profound insight into the nature of human spirituality and the relationship between individuals and the divine. This quote reflects Law's belief that the primary barrier between humans and their connection with God is not external circumstances or forces, but rather the exercise of human will. In essence, Law suggests that it is through the choices and actions of individuals that they either draw closer to or move further away from God.

William Law, who lived in the 18th century, was known for his strong emphasis on the inner spiritual life and the pursuit of divine union. His writings often challenged the prevailing religious attitudes of his time and called for a deeper, more personal engagement with faith. In the quote in question, Law highlights the pivotal role of human will in determining the state of one's relationship with God. By asserting that "Nothing hath separated us from God but our own will," he places the responsibility for spiritual separation squarely on the shoulders of individuals.

The quote also suggests that the exercise of human will can either align with or diverge from the divine will, leading to either unity or separation from God. Law's use of the phrase "our own will is our separation from God" underscores the idea that human autonomy and the choices individuals make play a crucial role in shaping their spiritual condition. This perspective aligns with the broader Christian tradition, which often emphasizes the importance of free will and moral agency in the context of faith and salvation.

From a theological standpoint, the quote can be interpreted as a reflection of the concept of sin and its impact on the relationship between humanity and divinity. In many Christian traditions, sin is understood as a manifestation of human disobedience or willful separation from God's intentions. By framing separation from God as a product of human will, Law echoes this theological understanding and underscores the idea that reconciliation with the divine necessitates a transformation of the human will.

Furthermore, the quote carries implications for the practice of spiritual disciplines and the pursuit of inner transformation. If human will is indeed the primary factor in the separation from God, then the cultivation of a surrendered and aligned will becomes essential for spiritual growth. This aligns with Law's broader emphasis on the importance of prayer, meditation, and the cultivation of virtuous habits as means of drawing closer to God and overcoming the barriers of self-will.

In conclusion, William Law's quote serves as a potent reminder of the profound influence of human will on the spiritual condition and the relationship with the divine. By attributing the separation from God to the exercise of individual will, Law underscores the personal responsibility and agency in matters of faith and underscores the potential for transformation through the alignment of human will with the divine. It encapsulates his emphasis on the inner spiritual life and the transformative power of aligning one's will with the will of God.