In the dark night of the soul, bright flows the river of God

In the dark night of the soul, bright flows the river of God

Saint John of the Cross, a Spanish mystic and poet, is known for his profound spiritual writings that explore the depths of the soul's journey towards union with God. One of his most famous works, "Dark Night of the Soul," delves into the experience of spiritual purification and the challenges that one faces on the path to divine union.

The phrase "In the dark night of the soul, bright flows the river of God" encapsulates the central theme of Saint John of the Cross's teachings. It speaks to the paradoxical nature of the spiritual journey, where one must endure darkness and suffering in order to reach the light and experience the presence of God.

The dark night of the soul is a period of intense spiritual struggle and purification, where the soul is stripped of its attachments and desires in order to be united with God. It is a time of profound inner turmoil, where one may feel abandoned by God and overwhelmed by feelings of emptiness and despair. However, it is through this darkness that the soul is able to let go of its ego and surrender to the divine will.

Despite the darkness and suffering of the dark night, Saint John of the Cross reminds us that God's grace is always present and flowing like a river, guiding us towards spiritual transformation and enlightenment. The image of a river suggests movement and life, symbolizing the continuous flow of divine love and mercy that sustains us even in our darkest moments.