On prayer and the contemplative life

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

22295

Title

On prayer and the contemplative life

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This classic text presents St. Thomas Aquinas's teachings on prayer, devotion, and the contemplative life, framed by a 1914 introduction that defends the saint's scientific method against modern mysticism. It offers a rational, accessible guide to spiritual union with God, distinguishing between ordinary devotion and extraordinary visions.

Summary up to 500 words

Compiled from the *Summa Theologica* and edited by Rev. Hugh Pope, Saint Thomas Aquinas's *On Prayer and the Contemplative Life* offers a profound synthesis of reason and mystery, addressing the virtue of religion, the nature of prayer, and the distinction between active and contemplative existence. The text clarifies that moral virtues, such as justice and prudence, belong to the active life, which involves external works and interaction with neighbors. Conversely, the contemplative life is directed toward the consideration of truth and the contemplation of Divine Light. However, Aquinas emphasizes that the moral virtues are essential prerequisites for contemplation; a purified heart, achieved through active virtue, allows the soul to gaze upon divine realities. Regarding prayer, Aquinas redefines it not as a command to God but as a humble conversation and an act of the virtue of religion. He argues that prayer is a gift from God and a real cause of union with Him, rather than a means to bend His will or change His decrees. The work explores various forms of prayer, including vocal, mental, and ejaculatory prayer, and addresses the proper attitude of the soul, noting that distractions are common but not fatal if met with persistence. The text also covers the intercession of saints, explaining that those in heaven, having their wills perfectly conformed to God's, can effectively pray for the living. A significant theme is the accessibility of the contemplative life. Contrary to the misconception that it is reserved for ecstatics or those experiencing supernatural visions, Aquinas presents it as the natural pursuit for anyone serving God. It requires a specific allocation of time for study and reflection but is attainable by all. The introduction by Rev. Pope contextualizes this thought within the history of faith, highlighting how Aquinas refused to cut himself off from the heritage of human genius, using the scientific method and Aristotelian logic to express theological mysteries. By stripping away the extraordinary manifestations of ecstasy, the work serves as a practical catechism on devotion, guiding readers toward a life of genuine union with God through disciplined prayer and contemplation.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Religion
• Philosophy