O estatuto da vida contemplativa e ativa na mística de Mestre Eckhart, baseado no sermão 86, a excelência de Marta sobre Maria

Abstract

Master Eckhart's proposal to break with the interpretative tradition that placed the contemplative life above the active life is truly not enough analysing. This German Dominican master argued that maintaining a rigid separation between these two ways of life prevents us from seeing the presence of contemplation in our daily lives. That's why it's crucial to strengthen the relationship between contemplative life and active life. However, this relationship needs to be understood in a different way. Contrary to what was once thought, it is in practical life that we find the true connection between inner wisdom and human action in the material world. The notion that the contemplative life was inactive and distant from the challenges of practical life no longer makes sense. In its place, a new idea emerges: "active contemplation" or the "active contemplative life", which overcomes any antagonism between interiority and exteriority. From this perspective, Eckhart invites us to rethink practical life. Instead of seeing it as something secondary or inferior to the contemplative life, we can now see it as the place where contemplation and action are dynamically intertwined. It's as if practical life becomes the perfect stage for this harmony between contemplation and action, revealing a new dimension of wisdom and fulfilment. Master Eckhart challenges us to abandon interpretations that are considered outdated and to embrace a new way of living, where contemplation and action complement and enhance each other. To illustrate this new perspective, Eckhart invites us to analyse the inspiring figure of Martha, the sister of Mary and Lazarus. While Mary chose to live in a state of contemplative ecstasy, Martha valued material occupations and exalted everyday life. However, the dear Martha didn't lose her inner wisdom, because her spirit remained free and she didn't allow herself to be dominated by material things. She represents the possibility of a new way of being in the world, a way that harmonises contemplative and active life.