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Word into Silence: A Manual for Christian Meditation by John Main OSB
This is a collection of short quotes and epithets from the writings of John Main. These words of wisdom are drawn from his talks, letters, journals and other unpublished sources and are intended as springboards for contemplation. They are gathered around a number of themes relating to the practice of Christian meditation Peace Purity of heart Contacting the centre Truth Expectations Distractions Union with God Hope
- GenresSpirituality
Paperback
First published December 1, 2004
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About the author
John Main
83 books19 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
John Main was a Benedictine monk who taught Christian meditation.
John Main was a Benedictine monk who taught Christian meditation.
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
April 3, 2024
John Main's "Door to Silence" delves deeper, offering a collection of profound quotes and reflections gleaned from his talks, letters, and journals. This unique format creates a rich tapestry of insights meant to guide readers on their personal journey towards inner silence and contemplation.
A Treasure Trove for the Contemplative Soul
Main presents bite-sized wisdom nuggets, each one a springboard for reflection. Thematic sections explore concepts like peace, purity of heart, and encountering the divine. These short passages are packed with meaning, inviting readers to pause, contemplate, and discover their own interpretations.
Beyond Technique: Embracing the Mystery
"Door to Silence" focuses on the essence of contemplation itself. Main encourages readers to move beyond mere technique and embrace the mystery that lies at the heart of silence. This approach resonates with those seeking a deeper spiritual connection rather than simply a stress-reduction tool.
A Resource for Different Paths
While rooted in the Christian contemplative tradition, the ideas presented in "Door to Silence" hold value for anyone seeking spiritual growth. Main's language is accessible and inclusive, avoiding overly religious terminology. This makes the book appealing to a broader audience, including those interested in Buddhist mindfulness practices or other contemplative traditions.
A Companion on the Journey
"Door to Silence" is best seen as a companion on the path of inner exploration. It's a book to be savored slowly, revisited often, and used as a source of inspiration for personal reflection and meditation practice. Readers seeking a structured approach or detailed instructions on meditation techniques might find this format less helpful.
In Conclusion
John Main's "Door to Silence" is a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Christian contemplative prayer or simply yearning for inner peace and a connection to something greater. While its format might not suit everyone, the profound reflections and thought-provoking questions make it a treasure trove for the contemplative soul.
A Treasure Trove for the Contemplative Soul
Main presents bite-sized wisdom nuggets, each one a springboard for reflection. Thematic sections explore concepts like peace, purity of heart, and encountering the divine. These short passages are packed with meaning, inviting readers to pause, contemplate, and discover their own interpretations.
Beyond Technique: Embracing the Mystery
"Door to Silence" focuses on the essence of contemplation itself. Main encourages readers to move beyond mere technique and embrace the mystery that lies at the heart of silence. This approach resonates with those seeking a deeper spiritual connection rather than simply a stress-reduction tool.
A Resource for Different Paths
While rooted in the Christian contemplative tradition, the ideas presented in "Door to Silence" hold value for anyone seeking spiritual growth. Main's language is accessible and inclusive, avoiding overly religious terminology. This makes the book appealing to a broader audience, including those interested in Buddhist mindfulness practices or other contemplative traditions.
A Companion on the Journey
"Door to Silence" is best seen as a companion on the path of inner exploration. It's a book to be savored slowly, revisited often, and used as a source of inspiration for personal reflection and meditation practice. Readers seeking a structured approach or detailed instructions on meditation techniques might find this format less helpful.
In Conclusion
John Main's "Door to Silence" is a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Christian contemplative prayer or simply yearning for inner peace and a connection to something greater. While its format might not suit everyone, the profound reflections and thought-provoking questions make it a treasure trove for the contemplative soul.
November 29, 2024
Every word in this slim, readable volume guides the reader effectively toward a spiritually and physically beneficial practice of meditation in the Christian tradition. For a broadening, complementary interreligious perspective, read Suzuki"s Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews