Friends of God
Nicholas of Basel was born at Basel, Switzerland, in 1308. The son of a rich merchant, he inherited substantial wealth. His life of pleasure was interrupted by a spiritual experience, after which he became a devout religious teacher. Nicholas was called by his followers the "Great Layman" or the "Great Friend of God". This has led to some confusion that he was a leader of the 14th century lay mystical society the Friends of God, although this has been discounted. Nicholas' teachings that, although not ordained, he had the authority to use episcopal and priestly powers, that submission to his direction was necessary for attaining spiritual perfection, and that his followers could not sin even though they committed crimes or disobeyed both Church and pope were at odds with those of the Dominican-inspired Friends of God. His teachings are akin to some of the more radical Beghards and the Brethren of the Free Spirit.