Lectio Divina

Lectio Divina is a traditional Christian practice of prayerfully reading and meditating on Scripture. The Latin term translates to "divine reading," and it is a contemplative way of engaging with the Word of God. Its purpose is not only to understand the text intellectually but to allow the Scripture to deepen one’s relationship with God and to invite spiritual transformation.

The practice of Lectio Divina involves four main steps:

1. Lectio (Reading)

  • Read the Scripture slowly and attentively.

  • Choose a passage of the Bible, often a short one, and read it with the intention of listening to what God may be saying to you through it.

  • This first step is about absorbing the text and allowing it to resonate in your heart and mind.

2. Meditatio (Meditation)

  • Reflect deeply on the passage.

  • Ask yourself questions like: "What does this passage say to me?" or "How does it relate to my life right now?"

  • Consider the meaning of the words, the context, and the emotions or thoughts that arise as you reflect on the text.

  • This stage involves letting the message of the passage speak to your personal experiences, struggles, and desires.

3. Oratio (Prayer)

  • Respond to God in prayer.

  • After meditating on the text, you enter into conversation with God. This is a time to express your thoughts, feelings, gratitude, needs, or any insights that have emerged.

  • Prayer can take the form of asking for guidance, expressing thanks, seeking healing, or simply being in God’s presence.

4. Contemplatio (Contemplation)

  • Rest in God’s presence and listen in silence.

  • In this step, you move beyond thinking and speaking to simply being with God. It’s a time of quietude where you allow God to speak to your heart.

  • There are no words here, just a sense of peace and communion with God, as you contemplate the presence of the Divine.

5. Actio (Action)

  • Some versions of Lectio Divina include Action as the final step, where you reflect on how the Scriptures call you to act. It could involve living out the lessons from the Scripture in your daily life, such as showing kindness, practicing forgiveness, or growing in a particular virtue.

Purpose of Lectio Divina

The ultimate goal of Lectio Divina is to deepen one’s relationship with God and to allow Scripture to shape your life, transforming your heart and mind. This practice is not just intellectual but aims to engage the whole person—mind, heart, and will—in an ongoing dialogue with God.

It is often done in solitude, though it can also be practiced in groups, and is a cherished spiritual discipline within monastic communities, especially in the Benedictine tradition. It encourages both a deeper understanding of Scripture and a deeper experience of God's love and guidance.