Too Deep for Words: Rediscovering Lectio Divina

by Thelma Hall

Retrieves from obscurity the lost art of contemplative prayer as practiced for sixteen centuries in monastic tradition, and provides 500 thematically arranged scripture texts as rich resources for this intimate prayer.

Genres: Spirituality, Prayer, Religion, Christianity, Theology, Faith, Nonfiction

124 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 27, 1988

Reviews

[Julie Mihevc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, how-to of Lectio Divina.

[Benjamin Lawrence Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is *the* beginner book for those wanting to grow in the ancient practice of contemplation. By “beginner” I do not mean “basic” or “simple” I mean this book is to be read *first* and if you haven’t read this book, stop what you’re reading now and get it. It is foundational.

[Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thelma Hall's short book (her discussion of lectio consisting of only 56 pages) is a excellent introduction to lectio divina. She does a great job of putting this practice into the greater context of contemplation and an ever deepening relationship with God. She is very cognizant of Thomas Merton's writings and much of her discussion takes into account his reflections on the true self vis-a-vis the false self. One of the many strengths of this short work is her discussion on the transition to and experience of Contemplatio. This is probably the most least understood component of lectio divina and I found her discussion of it incredibly helpful. The rest of her book (52 pages) consists of 500 Scripture texts organized under 50 different themes that are especially appropriate for the practice of lectio divina. This is a worthy addition to anyone's library.

[Corey · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm writing a research paper on Lectio Divina for an assignment for school and this is the first book on the topic that I picked up. It was far too mystical for me to hold my interest. Words like "faith dimensions" can be found throughout and the book leaves you feeling more like you need to balance chakras than biblically relating to God. Hoping the next one isn't as bad.

[John Poston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sad that I gave this one away because I want to read it again! This book seriously deepened my prayer life.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may be the key to supporting a more consistent daily prayer/meditation habit, which I’ve struggled with all my adult life. Leading to deeper contemplation with no expectations for an outcome. Just being open to God’s grace in my life. So far, the best book of the program for me.

[Kevin Orth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been practicing and reading about lectio divina for several months. Not until I read this book did I feel a genuine and sincere understanding of both the method and experience of this technique.

[Eli Mostrales · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a five-star book ... [mere words cannot describe the simplicity with which it succeeds in... describing our walk with the Lord Jesus Christ ... & recommending a "methodless method" to continue & enjoy our communion with God]

[Jordan Hilkey · Rating 3 out of 5]

I feel as though this book can be helpful but there really many flaws.

For one, Thomas Merton is quoted so much that I think he takes up 15% of the text (not exaggerating). If I wanted to read Merton I would have chosen one of his books.

The reading of this book was very clunky. Larger words vocabulary wise which I don’t hate, but unnecessarily used. It felt like someone trying to sound scholarly in where they didn’t need to. I think of it as making the meat harder to chew on. There is meat there, but it was really difficult to understand exactly what the author meant with the unnecessary complicated language. A good example of this is when speaking from her heart and about personal example, why use lengthy words and toss in such extra fluff to sound academic? Just share.

The good was the push for readers to see the value in some monastic church tradition. This is what drew me in the first place. She draws us deep into the waters that have long since been pulled away from by modern thought. This is profoundly important and I would say has the potential to be incredibly life changing for the reader. These traditions have held the church for centuries, we must return to the wells once again.

The references in the back (second half) of this book are helpful, but not something you can find in a concordance or simple Bible search tool. I didn’t find them particularly helpful.

Hey, it’s an inexpensive book and you can probably find it cheap, so grab it. But don’t expect groundbreaking writing. However, you can find lectio to be ground breaking in practice.

[Ari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably the most simple/straightforward and most excellent book regarding Lectio Divina currently in print. Although the majority of the text of course relates to Gospel and other Christian texts, I (a Jew and a Rabbinical student) found it a useful methodology book for 1) chaplaincy--as a way to bring this way of learning/praying/understanding to patients and 2) for personal use. I've used the method for years but have had a hard time explaining it, and this book is useful on that front. Recommended.

[Mary Beene · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good beginners book, with much to commend it. It defines language around contemplation and meditation and sets out a process. I found it to be a little too prescriptive for my taste, which might just have to with the age of the book. There was much talk of every person's experience being different, but then many "this is how you should" do or approach something, which didn't always sit well with me.

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book 16 years ago after going through RCIA but I never read it. I have just completed the St Ignatius Spiritual Exercises and picked up this book and it is the perfect ongoing companion to my St Ignatius meditation and contemplation that I learned. it reminds me that I need to visit with Jesus every day and receive his love that he is constantly pouring out to me, if only I would spend the time.

[Elizabeth Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good basic yet thoughtful introduction to Lectio Divina. The book is divided between an explanation of the practice (first half), and scripture texts under themed headings for practicing it (second half). I appreciated that this book is firmly within a framework of orthodox Catholicism, a good perspective to see alongside Lectio books that are more vague and oriented toward spiritual seekers.

[Anita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clear explanation of Lectio Divina. Finding my mind very busy after doing Centering Prayer for several months, this prayer form seemed like a good idea. The desire in both forms is contemplation. The first part of the book is not long or burdensome to read. The second part is an organized list of 500 selections from the Bible to use for this form of prayer.

[Claire Scorzi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A primeira parte é teórica e a segunda, prática. Fui lembrada de algumas verdades ou descobertas que vinha esquecendo - daí a necessidade que temos de, seja qual for o tipo de sermão que ouvimos, manter-se em sintonia com o texto bíblico, em espírito de oração - e algumas colocações da autora eu discutiria; no geral, um livro para reler, e para usar.

[Annabelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick read, but I wanted a little more discussion about the practice itself. I like the scripture selections though.

[Jay A. George]

This was a good basic guide to Lectio Divina method of reading scripture. There is a reading guide at the end but I’m reading through another plan.

[Stef · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent resource for those seeking to deepen their connection in prayer and scripture.

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best guidebook to LD that I’ve come across.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great explanation of lectio divina and full of Scripture by themes!

[Lisa Cottingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very important book for me in practicing Lectio Divina.

[Gabby · Rating 2 out of 5]

I love the section with suggested passages! Super helpful when I hope to lead a Lectio Divina session. The book itself was not super captivating in the writing style

[Jobie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is was a pretty fair primer for Lectio Divina. It was a quick read, well thought out, and informative. For primer and may get a little complex for a casual reader. It wasn't the most thorough treatment of Latino Divina. It becomes a little esoteric when it could be a little more pragmatic. Some might argue this point however when you're talking about any spiritual practice I think clear concise direction is in order. For the most part she gave that direction. There were a few times when she could giving given a little bit more direction but allowed it to remain mystical. Yes Lecti Divina is an mystical spiritual practice. However, for those who aren't familiar with the practice need a little bit more detailed guidance before they can venture on their own and discover the practice. The mystery comes with much practice.


Bottom line: one great book, not the best treatment I've read. If you're only going to buy one book on Lexia Divina don't get this one. But if you buy more than one, this one's a great addition and supplement.

[D · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful call to contemplation, distinct from meditation. Interesting quote from St. John of the Cross' paraphrasing of St. Luke's Gospel (11:9) with the 4 steps of Lectio:

(“So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.)

1) Seek in READING
2) and you will find in MEDITATION;
3) knock in PRAYER
4) and it will be opened to you in CONTEMPLATION.

I like how the author recounts the 4 levels of Lectio Devina, described by Dom Marmion (a Benedictine monk of an earlier era):

(Marmion (April 1, 1858 – January 30, 1923) was an Irish monk, and the third abbot of Maredsous Abbey in Belgium. Beatified by Pope John Paul II, Marmion was one of the most popular and influential Catholic writers of the 20th century. His books are considered spiritual classics.]

We read (Lectio)
under the eye of God (Meditatio)
until the heart is touched (Oratio)
and leaps to flame. (Contemplatio)

[Benjamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The gift of this book is the collection of Scripture texts for prayer. The second half of the book is this list and I've devoured it, sharing it with others.

The front material, Hall's thoughts on prayer, Scripture, and the discerned Christian walk, are well written and accessible. More than accessible, delightful and energizing. It's a happy thing to come across an author I've never heard of and to resonate deeply with their words. This is what's happening for me.

Finally, I keep seeing something. Books like this one, books I resonate with, are often referencing Thomas Merton. God has used that man's words to create something within many others. I see it. I feel it. I keep reading about it.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great answer to what I have been seeking. The first half of the book is a straightforward explanation of lectio divina in its parts. The second half is a generous selection of verses to apply the disciplines from the first half. Thelma Hall has done an excellent job making the ancient practices accessible to a contemporary audience. Thanks.

[Michelle]

This seems like a good one for introducing Lectio Divina, it also give specific passages to focus on.

[John Stygles · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good "Primer" for someone just beginning their time with Lectio Divina.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this for reference. If you love to do lectio divina, this book gives you Bible passages by topic.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some really great stuff in the book, I just don't think certain topics were well explained.