The Annihilated Self

In 1310, Marguerite Porete, a Beguine mystic, was burned at the stake for teaching the mystical path of a soul utterly surrendered to Divine Love—beyond fear, beyond merit, beyond even the need to strive. In her luminous work, The Mirror of Simple Souls, she described a journey in which the self is gradually emptied of all that is not God, until only Love remains, living and moving freely within.

This program explores the daring clarity of her vision—a path not of effort, but of release; not of becoming worthy, but of recognizing what has always been given. Together, we will enter the stages she outlines, from the striving soul to the “annihilated” soul that rests in God without resistance. Through reflection, dialogue, and contemplative practice, we will gently encounter the paradox at the heart of her teaching: that the deepest freedom comes not from attaining, but from letting go completely. Her voice, silenced in her time, still speaks with startling immediacy to those ready to listen.

Offered as 3 satsangs and 2 workshops (subject to change).

The presentations associated with this Yoga Vacation Program begin with an 8pm satsang on the first day of the program and conclude with an 8pm satsang on the last day of the program.  Click here to read more about the Yoga Vacation Program details and view the ashram schedule for yoga classes and meals during your stay. We suggest you arrive at least one day prior to the start of your program for the optimal experience.