The Other Side of Silence: A Guide to Christian Meditation

by Morton T. Kelsey

A theologian and psychologist presents a rationale for and discusses the method of Christian meditation leading to an encounter with God

Genres: Spirituality, Meditation, Religion, Christianity, Theology, Prayer, Christian

314 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1976

Reviews

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book confirmed some prayer practices I already had in place, and expended some that were nascent in me, and encouraged me to keep at it. He is a bit repetitive, and it seems like this book could be a lot shorter with some good editing, but his sincerity makes up for this. (I am reading a 1976 edition.)

I most value the author's straightforward and common-sense defense of what many Christians would consider too "esoteric" or "new-agey" but which are in fact extremely helpful. In reference to dreams for instance he explains that nearly every culture, including those of the old and new testaments have regarded dreams as a means by which God reveals himself to individuals. Maybe that's too general a statement, still it seems modern Christians and non-Christians are quite singular in their rejection of dreams and spontaneous images as nonsensical and maybe even dangerous.

The author also shares a lot of his personal experiences as guiding examples and cautionary tales. Underlying the entire book though, is his confidence that God is wiling to be encountered by the whole person, (including that which we are unconscious of in ourselves) so it is not so much a matter of correct technique but ot sincere intention and perseverance.

[Joel Cuthbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quite fascinating (and fairly progressive for it's time) blend of Christian Mysticism and Jungian psychology. The author is well researched and has a powerful grasp on the history and tradition of Christian theology and mystic practice as well as the fresh insights of thought on the part the unconscious plays in one's approach to a spiritual interior life. The book is a great primer for those unfamiliar with both but interested in where these two approaches to the inner mind intersect. I feel like it was quite ahead of it's time in that traditionally mainstream Christendom often frowned upon the intellectual developments of Cognitive Psychology and the likes. An enlightening and resourceful read indeed.

[Rick · Rating 3 out of 5]

very interesting. Postulates that our subconscious is the way to enter the spiritual world via meditation, fantasy, dreams, etc.... This puts you in position for god to make changes in you. Not sure how much I go along with his ideas, but its interesting. Explains (his theory , at least) of how the mystics and other saints of old did this.

[Jenna · Rating 2 out of 5]

The only reason this book got more than one star from me was because there was one particular meditation in the LAST chapter that really struck me. Otherwise this was an extremely long psychological research paper (graphs and all) trying to disguise itself as a spiritual book on how to do Christian Meditation. I say “trying” because other than the last chapter of the book, I felt like I was reading a text book, and a very repetitive one at that. I struggled to get through this book and where in most cases when reading if I miss a part or don’t understand, I will go back to re-read it. I tried that at the beginning of this one and very quickly stopped. I only finished because I am one that can’t just stop a book once I have started it.

So, if you are REALLY into psychology and want to read a small bit of spiritual guidance, this book is for you...otherwise I would waste my time with it!

[Mark Matzeder · Rating 3 out of 5]

"The Other Side of Silence" is an excellent introduction to a specifically Christian discipline of contemplation and meditation. Kelsey links the practice to modern depth psychology as a means of personal growth through facing one's inner self. With ample examples from historical and more contemporary Christian mysticism and rich citation, I found myself with a list of dozens of books to further explore this path.

[James Wheeler]

Really enjoyed this book. Kelsey presents a blend of Christian Mysticism and Jungian psychology as a helpful form of christian faith. Coming from a tradition that emphasizes theology and bible reading, i found the attention given to the the self and also awareness and integration of ALL aspects of self to be a healthy counter weight. Kelsey is not threatened by the subconscious but affirms that God created it and works through it.

[Brittany]

recommended in celebration of discipline (most important single book on the theology and psychology behind the experience of Christian meditation)

[Circle of Hope Pastors · Rating 5 out of 5]

A guide to meditation.

[Jsue · Rating 2 out of 5]

A false-start. Read approximately 3/4's of the way through before admitting it did not sustain my interest.