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In centering prayer, the sacred word is not the object of the attention but rather the expression of the intention of the will.
Thomas Keating
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the importance of intention in prayer rather than focusing solely on the words used.

Thomas Keating's quote highlights that in the practice of centering prayer, the sacred word serves not as the focal point but as a representation of one's deeper intention and will. The essence of prayer lies in the sincerity and conscious desire to connect with the divine, rather than merely repeating a prescribed word or phrase without understanding or purpose.

Themes

PrayerIntentionSacredSpiritualityWill

In practice

Example use cases

During a meditation retreat, I shared this quote to emphasize the significance of intention in spiritual practices.

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