S U F F E R E D F O R U S |
Lectio Divina (Latin for "Divine Reading") is a traditional Benedictine practice of scriptural reading, meditation and prayer intended to promote communion with God and to increase the knowledge of God's Word. It does not treat Scripture as texts to be studied, but as the Living Word. Lectio Divina has four separate steps: read; meditate; pray; contemplate. First a passage of Scripture is read, then its meaning is reflected upon. This is followed by prayer and contemplation on the Word of God.
Lectio ("read") The first step is the reading of Scripture. In order to achieve a calm and tranquil state of mind, preparation is recommended. The biblical reference for preparation via stillness is Psalm 46:10: "Be still, and know that I am God." An example would be sitting quietly, then reciting a prayer and inviting the Holy Spirit to guide the reading of the Scripture that is to follow. Meditatio ("meditate") The second movement involves meditating upon the scriptural passage; waiting for the action of the Holy Spirit to illuminate the mind, as it is pondered. Oratio ("pray") The third movement is prayer - dialogue with God; a loving conversation with God who has invited us into an embrace. Contemplatio ("contemplate") The final movement is contemplation. Silent thought and prayer that expresses love for God. |