Dictionary term

Contemplation

Direct answer

Contemplation is prayerful, loving attention to God beyond discursive analysis, often marked by stillness, receptivity, and surrender.

Contemplation is silent or simple prayerful attention to God.

Esoteric ChristianityThe Great Almanac DictionaryUpdated 2026-07-15
Text and tradition · visual guide Contemplation

Contemplation is silent or simple prayerful attention to God.

A lineage map for books and systems; it avoids presenting symbolic traditions as literal fact.

Quick reference

Use when
Use Contemplation when explaining Christian mysticism, lectio divina, the Cloud of Unknowing, hesychasm, and prayer of quiet.
Do not use it for
Do not treat contemplation as a technique for control, visions, or superiority.
Reference category
Esoteric Christianity
Related terms
Christian Mysticism, Holy Spirit, Logos, Theosis

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The story behind Contemplation

Monastic, patristic, medieval, and modern contemplative traditions developed many forms of silent prayer and loving awareness.

Contemplation in spiritual tradition

Spiritually, Contemplation asks whether silence is making the heart more available to God.

Contemplation in the Bible

Christian contemplation should remain joined to love of God and neighbor, Scripture, obedience, and humility.

Why Contemplation matters

Contemplation matters because spiritual life needs more than information, performance, and constant speech.

Contemplation at work: an example

A page can say contemplation is not empty escapism; it is attentive consent to God.

Sources and editorial method

This concise reference separates established definitions from historical, symbolic, or interpretive claims. Entries without external references are presented as editorial summaries rather than primary-source scholarship.

Source
The Great Almanac Dictionary
Category
Esoteric Christianity
Also appears in
Esoteric Christianity
Aliases
None listed
Last updated
2026-07-15

Practice attentive stillness

Contemplation in a book is one thing; Contemplation in your own birth chart is your life. The Oracle casts your real chart and tells you what it means for your love, your work, and your year ahead, in conversation, free.

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Christian MysticismChristian Mysticism seeks experiential knowledge of God that deepens faith, love, and holiness. Holy SpiritHoly Spirit is God personally present and active, not an impersonal energy. LogosLogos is the Word through whom Christian theology speaks of creation, revelation, and Christ. TheosisTheosis means participation in divine life by grace, often summarized as deification. Discernment of SpiritsDiscernment of Spirits tests spiritual movements by truth, fruit, humility, and love.

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Common questions

What is Contemplation?

Contemplation is prayerful, loving attention to God beyond discursive analysis, often marked by stillness, receptivity, and surrender.

How should Contemplation be understood in Christian mysticism?

Use Contemplation when explaining Christian mysticism, lectio divina, the Cloud of Unknowing, hesychasm, and prayer of quiet.

What should I avoid when interpreting Contemplation?

Do not treat contemplation as a technique for control, visions, or superiority.

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