Customer Reviews

Open Mind, Open Heart

5 star:		(19)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(1)

 

 

As a long term student of contemplative paths for over thirty years and with ten years experience of teaching groups, I found this book the most inspiring and refreshing work I have seen on the subject. My own background has included practical study of contemplation under various spiritual directors, ranging from the traditional Christian approach, to Egyptian Hermetism, Tibetan Dzogchen, Jnana yoga, influences from other Eastern practises and the Toltec Warrior path.

The most significant factor when reading something penned from such a great depth of experience culminating in real wisdom, is the absolute authority with which the author writes. His description of the actual states experienced, the practicalities of making real progress and the methods for handling difficulties, make it abundantly clear that he draws on a profound depth of real experience. It is as important a milestone in spiritual literature as the works of Meister Eckhart, the Cloud of Unknowing and The Ascent of Mount Carmel by Saint John of the Cross, but presented in a form that makes it both palatable to and immediately useful for the modern reader.

This is a wonderfully inspiring and significant work, of great value to anyone, from any background, who is seriously seeking direct experience of Self Realisation, be they a beginner or an old hand. It succeeds in crossing the apparent divides between different traditions, by focusing on the practicalities, in a delightful and humorous style. Reading this book is like sitting by the fire with an old friend.

For those of you who have read the original edition of this book over the last twenty years, I think you will be pleased, as I am, with the reorganization and clarifying language that is in the 20th Anniversary edition. Because this is a book that one reads every year or two, it is well worth the small investment to purchase this refined, fresh organization and clarity of statements. For those of you who were hoping for inclusive language - sorry, at age 84 I can appreciate that inclusive language for God is a stretch too far. However, in his recent talks, Fr. Keating is care-filled to accommodate those for whom masculine pronouns for God are an offense.

This is a marvelous introduction to centering prayer. It answers basic questions and pulls the reader into God's love in a very methodical and reassuring way--reminding the reader that all one needs to do is to say "Yes" to God's grace. Takes a lot of pressure off "making it happen" which is so ingrained in Western society. "Be still and know that I am God" is a central theme. Open Mind Open Heart: The Contemplative Dimension of the Gospel

This book has opened up a whole new path to prayer for me. It is what I was looking for. Centering Prayer,Contemplative Prayer, is explained well inThomas Keating's book.

I was introduced to centering prayer by a visit to a centering prayer support group. A parishioner told me the fundamentals of this method of prayer, a distillation of the contemplative prayer tradition, which dates from third or fourth century Egyptian monasticism, and then we had a twenty minute session. Afterwards I received a seven page appendix from this book specifically outlining the centering prayer method. In the appendix was a reference to the title of the book which I ordered and found to be helpful. Through centering prayer one learns to increase the reservoir of interior silence.

In this writing, Father Thomas Keating very carefully and completely offers a newly-edited version of what is considered a primary source for learning Centering Prayer. As the early proponent of this type of prayer that can lead greater joy in entering the presence of God, Keating has once again explained in great detail how the practice of engaging in Centering Prayer can be of benefit. His work is the definitive source of terminology and understanding for the contemplative who wants to engage seriously in this deep form of prayer.

Both the original edition and this edition are helpful for those engaged or considering engagement with Contemplative Prayer.I prefer this newer version.

This book is awesome....it is extremely helpful and anyone interested in Christian mysticism should buy it! I think this book will transform your prayer life and give you a true, clear understanding about what prayer is all about. This is a must-have for all people on the spiritual path, for anyone who seeks truth, and for anyone who seeks the Truth of God! This book will help you in your spiritual awareness....and Keating's message agrees with so many other teachers and realized masters that I've read. BUY THIS BOOK!

This is one of the best primers about moving into
Stillness I have read. It will be valuable to the beginner as well as for folks who have practiced meditation for many years.

An open mind and an open heart. This is the essence of mindfulness meditation and practice - to be fully present with what is, without reacting out of habit and ignorance. the transformational power of this kind of open awareness is immense; some say that the realization of this is the beginning of a new age for humankind. If mindfulness interests you, I also recommend 'The Path of Mindfulness Meditation' available through Amazon.