Study of the Concept of “Negation of Negation” in Meister Eckhart

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Graduated with a PhD in Comparative Philosophy from University of Qom

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Philosophy, University of Qom, Qom, Iran.

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Philosophy, University of Qom

10.48308/kj.2024.234261.1217

Abstract

The term "negation of negation" is a description Meister Eckhart employs for the "hidden essence of divinity." Through a precise analysis of Eckhart's works, in which he addresses the concept of "negation of negation," it becomes clear that although Eckhart sometimes uses the term "the One"—borrowed from Neoplatonism—as synonymous with "negation of negation," his understanding of "the One" significantly differs from that in Neoplatonism. For Eckhart, "the One" is not only beyond "being" and beings, but also manifests as "negation of negation" throughout the world. Furthermore, a proper understanding of the concept of "negation of negation" can serve as the key to resolving many apparent contradictions in Eckhart's works or conflicting interpretations of his writings. One such contradiction is the issue of the relation of "being" to God. "Negation of negation" teaches us that, for Eckhart, "being" holds two distinct meanings: in one sense, attributing "being" to God is permissible—though not ideal—while in another sense, applying the term "being" to God is nothing but error and a deviation from the truth.

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History

  • Receive Date: 26 December 2023
  • Revise Date: 07 February 2024
  • Accept Date: 19 September 2024

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