Nikolaus von der Flüe, popularly known as Bruder Klaus, was a Swiss hermit and spiritual leader who lived during the 15th century. He was born on March 14, 1417, in Sachseln, a village located in central Switzerland. He belonged to a wealthy peasant family and had nine siblings. His father, Heinrich von der Flüe, was an important figure in the community and held several authoritative positions, including that of a judge.
During his youth, Nikolaus worked as a farmer, soldier, and councilman. However, he experienced a strong desire to live a life of seclusion and devotion to God. In 1467, at the age of 50, he obtained his family's consent and left home to become a hermit. He constructed a rudimentary hut in the Ranft gorge, close to his hometown, and lived there for the rest of his life, devoting himself to prayer, meditation, and fasting.
Despite living a solitary existence, Bruder Klaus emerged as a spiritual guide and respected personality in Switzerland. People from distant places sought his advice and guidance, and he was known for his wisdom, modesty, and kindness. He also played a key role in negotiating and settling disputes and ensuring Switzerland's neutrality during the armed conflicts of his time.
Bruder Klaus was a devout Catholic and actively participated in the Church's rituals and practices, frequently attending Mass. He was also known for his acts of penance, such as wearing a hair shirt and self-flagellation.
On March 21, 1487, at the age of 70, Bruder Klaus died and he was buried in the Ranft gorge. His hermitage later became a place of pilgrimage and in 1947 the Catholic Church canonized him as a saint. Today, he is regarded as one of Switzerland's most revered and cherished figures, and his legacy is commemorated annually on March 21, his feast day.