Ruysbroeck

"Ruysbroeck" by Evelyn Underhill is a scholarly monograph written in the early 20th century. This work provides an in-depth exploration of the life and teachings of Jan van Ruusbroec, a prominent Flemish mystic of the 14th century, regarded as one of the greatest Catholic mystics. Underhill delves into Ruysbroeck’s unique interpretations of divine love and spirituality, highlighting the importance of both his personal experiences and the broader historical context of his writings. The opening of the book begins with a discussion on the nature of mysticism and its historical figures, positing Ruysbroeck as a pivotal character who synthesized various spiritual traditions of his time. Underhill introduces Ruysbroeck's life by describing his adventurous childhood, his spiritual journey, and the influences of key figures that shaped his mystical outlook. Through the lens of his biography, the author emphasizes Ruysbroeck’s development from a boy seeking spiritual fulfillment to a contemplative monk whose efforts propelled the tradition of Christian mysticism forward, setting the stage for his later works that articulate the soul's relationship with God through love and contemplation.