Contemplation
Deep spiritual contemplation and spiritual vision

Definition:
Contemplation (Latin: contemplatio – "contemplation, contemplation") refers to a form of silent, inwardly focused contemplation in which the mind calms and focuses on the essential, divine, or absolute. In contrast to active meditation, which often uses techniques or visualizations, contemplation is more receptive, listening, and non-objective – it strives for a direct inner experience beyond thought.

Characteristics:

Stillness and concentration: Thoughts are observed without judging or directing them.

Non-objectiveness: No specific focus such as a mantra or image – consciousness is opened.

Awareness of Being: The goal is not action, but pure being in the present moment.

Intuition instead of analysis: Knowledge comes through inner contemplation, not through logical thinking.

Traditions and Background:
Contemplation is a central path to insight in many spiritual traditions:

Christian mysticism: e.g., with Meister Eckhart, Teresa of Ávila, or in contemplative prayer

Buddhism: in Zen practice, comparable to zazen (sitting in silent presence)

Sufism: as a silent abiding in the divine presence

Advaita Vedanta: as a "pure vision" of the self without movement of thought

Effect and Goal:
Contemplation leads to inner clarity, peace, and spiritual depth. It can enable an experience of "oneness" with all being. Many report deep intuition, heart opening, and a state beyond self and world—often described as mystical unity or closeness to God.

Difference to meditation:
While "meditation" as an umbrella term encompasses many forms of active practice (breath observation, mantra, visualization), contemplation is usually more passive, receptive, and silent—a "path of the heart" and devotion.

Application in a modern context:
Contemplation is also regaining importance outside of religious practice, for example in:

Mindfulness training

Spiritual retreats

Psychosomatic therapy

Artistic and philosophical reflection

Related terms:
Meditation, mysticism, inner vision, mindfulness, being, silence, contemplation of God, nondual experience