Biblical Answer

The Practice of Meditation in Christianity

Meditation is a practice that has been explored in various spiritual traditions, including Christianity. While some may associate meditation with Eastern spiritual practices, Christians can and do meditate on the Scripture and the works of God. In fact, the Bible instructs believers to "meditate on the law of the Lord day and night" (Psalm 1:2). This meditation is not about emptying the mind or seeking to achieve a state of nothingness, but rather about dwelling on and applying the truths of Scripture to one's life.

In Christianity, meditation is often seen as a means of deepening one's understanding and application of God's Word. As the Bible says, "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12). Meditation can help believers to pierce the surface level of their thoughts and intentions and to discern the will of God for their lives. This can lead to a deeper level of intimacy with God and a greater sense of purpose and direction.

However, it is essential to note that Christian meditation is distinct from Eastern meditation practices. While Eastern meditation often emphasizes the emptying of the mind and the attainment of a state of nothingness, Christian meditation is focused on the filling of the mind with the truth of God's Word and the application of that truth to one's life. As the Bible says, "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2), not the emptying of your mind. This means that Christian meditation is not about achieving a state of nothingness, but rather about being transformed by the truth of God's Word. Therefore, Christians can and should practice meditation, but it must be done in a way that is consistent with biblical principles and practices.