The practice of Christian insight meditation can enliven one's entire prayer life. It can prepare our hearts to hear God's word in new ways, set the stage for new insight into the deeper meaning of the words and symbols we celebrate in Christian worship and practice, and help us to grow in the purity of heart, poverty of spirit, and emptiness of self that dispose us for God's work in our lives. The practice is particularly valuable for taking prayer beyond discursiveness, petition, and thinking. Christian insight meditation is nothing short of a powerful way to "pray always" and practice loving presence to God.
Drawing heavily on the teachings of St. John of the Cross, and also drawing from the illuminating writings of Teresa of Avila, the authors here offer a masterful explication of a practice and path firmly grounded in the meditative technology of Eastern wisdom, yet wholly and vividly Christian in spirit.
Despite the long history of mysticism within Christianity, more and more Christians are turning to Eastern religions for spiritual guidance. Some have abandoned the religion of their childhood, believing they've found the "pearl of great price" in Eastern meditation. Christian insight meditation places Buddhist meditation within the Christian prayer tradition, guiding followers through a process of inner purification that leads to a deeper Christian faith and to the direct vision of God. Also drawing onthe teaching of Teresa of Avila, this inspiring book offers reliable guidance in learning the practice, allowing readers to follow in the footsteps of John of the Cross, while answering questions they may have about Christian grace and the Buddhist dhamma; karma, rebirth, and purgatory; and the Buddhist no-self and Christian soul. Readers will discover the power of Christian insight meditation to bring inner peace and healing and to deepen and enhance their Christian life.
"Christian Insight Meditation may have found the way for many Christians to take advantage of Eastern meditative practice in a meaningful way with an undiluted Christian awareness."
