Lectio Divina, which means “divine reading” in Latin, is a practice of meditation and prayer originating in the Christian tradition. Its goal is to foster a deeper encounter with God through the Word. It is a contemplative way of reading and reflecting on Scripture, allowing practitioners to connect spiritually and grow in their life of faith.
The practice generally follows four steps:
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Lectio (Reading) : In this phase, the person reads a passage from the Bible carefully, seeking to understand the text and its messages. It is important to read slowly, allowing the words to resonate in the mind and heart.
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Meditatio (Meditation) : After reading, the practitioner reflects on what he or she has read. One may consider how the text applies to one's personal life, what feelings it evokes, and what God may be communicating through it.
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Oratio (Prayer) : This step involves prayer, where the practitioner speaks to God about his or her reflections and feelings. It may include requests, thanksgiving, or simply an open dialogue with the Lord.
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Contemplatio (Contemplation) : Finally, contemplation is a moment of silence and presence before God, allowing the soul to experience divine love. It is an invitation to stop and listen to what God has to say, without rushing.
