Meditation and Expectant Listening

Meditation and Quaker expectant listening share similarities, but also have distinct differences.

Similarities:

1. Intentional silence: Both practices involve intentional silence, creating space for inner reflection and contemplation.

2. Inner stillness: Both aim to cultivate inner stillness, quieting the mind and emotions to access deeper states of consciousness.

3. Receptivity: Both practices involve receptivity, opening oneself to guidance, insight, or spiritual connection.

4. Non-judgmental awareness: Both encourage non-judgmental awareness, observing thoughts and emotions without attachment or criticism.

Differences:

1. Focus: Meditation often focuses on a specific object (e.g., breath, mantra), whereas Quaker expectant listening focuses on listening for divine guidance or insight.

2. Purpose: Meditation can aim to achieve various goals (e.g., relaxation, concentration, self-awareness), whereas Quaker expectant listening seeks to discern God’s will and guidance.

3. Duration and structure: Meditation can vary in duration and structure, whereas Quaker expectant listening typically occurs during designated worship times, often with a more fluid structure.

4. Community: Quaker expectant listening often occurs within a community setting, whereas meditation can be practiced individually or in groups.

5. Spiritual context: Quaker expectant listening is rooted in Christian spirituality, whereas meditation can be practiced within various spiritual or secular contexts.

Quaker Expectant Listening: Quaker expectant listening involves:

1. Waiting in silence: Quakers wait in silence, expecting to receive guidance or insight from God.

2. Listening for the Inner Light: Quakers listen for the Inner Light, a term used to describe the divine presence or guidance within.

3. Discerning God’s will: Quakers seek to discern God’s will and guidance, often for personal or collective decision-making.

Meditation: Meditation involves:

1. Focusing on an object: Meditators focus on a specific object, such as the breath, a mantra, or a visualization.

2. Cultivating mindfulness: Meditators cultivate mindfulness, observing thoughts and emotions without attachment or judgment.

3. Achieving relaxation or insight: Meditators may aim to achieve relaxation, reduce stress, or gain insight into their thoughts, emotions, or behaviors.

While both practices share similarities, Quaker expectant listening is distinct in its spiritual context, focus on discerning God’s will, and communal practice.

References:

• Quaker Faith and Practice (Britain Yearly Meeting)

• The Quaker Book of Wisdom edited by Philip Gulley

• Meditation for Beginners by Jack Kornfield

• Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn

Quaker tradition, discerning God’s will Biblical scriptures that guide Quaker faith, practice, and decision-making