8+ What is Contemplative Prayer? (Defined)

definition of contemplative prayer

8+ What is Contemplative Prayer? (Defined)

The practice involves a turning of one’s attention away from the everyday world and toward the divine presence. It is a silent, interior form of prayer, characterized by a focus on being with God rather than thinking or doing. It is not about formulating specific requests or engaging in mental discourse, but rather about resting in the awareness of the divine. For example, an individual might sit quietly, focusing on a single word or image that evokes a sense of the sacred, gently returning to that focus whenever the mind wanders.

This form of devotion is significant because it can foster a deeper relationship with the transcendent. Proponents suggest that it cultivates inner peace, reduces stress, and promotes a sense of interconnectedness. Historically, it has been a central practice within various religious traditions, offering practitioners a pathway to spiritual growth and transformation. The emphasis is on the experience of the divine, rather than intellectual understanding or external rituals.

Read more