Introduction

One of the most central and ancient practices of Christian prayer is Praying the Scriptures (lectio divina, or divine reading). Lectio Divina is a traditional practice of scriptural reading, meditation, and prayer intended to promote communion with God and to provide guidance in understanding the Bible. This ancient method of prayer and scriptural reading is practiced by Christians, particularly in the monastic tradition. The four steps of lectio divina are lectio (reading), meditatio (meditation), oratio (prayer), and contemplatio (contemplation).

Lectio Divina is a way of becoming immersed in Scripture in a very personal way. It draws on how the Jewish community read the Haggadah, a text read during Passover that retells the Exodus story. Haggadah means “telling,” along with being a physical text; the word captures the practice of telling and retelling a story.

The Christian form of Lectio Divina was first introduced by St. Gregory of Nyssa (c 330- 395) and encouraged by St. Benedict of Nursia (c 480-547), the founder of the Benedictine order. It is a way of developing a closer relationship with God by reflecting prayerfully on God’s words. In Lectio Divina, the chosen spiritual text is read four times in total, giving an opportunity to think deeply about it and respond thoughtfully. When we practice Lectio Divina, we can imagine we are involved in the events of Scripture — for example, hearing God’s words to the Israelites in the desert. It is an intensely personal experience.

Lectio Divina has been associated with increasing understanding of scripture, developing a deeper prayer life, and fostering personal transformation. It is recognized as a valuable tool for spiritual growth and continues to be embraced by various Christian denominations and spiritual communities.

In short, Lectio Divina is not an intellectual exercise but a contemplative practice that offers a rich and deeply spiritual approach to engaging with scripture. Its unique structure provides a framework for understanding the Bible, fostering a closer relationship with God, and seeking spiritual nourishment. As a result, it continues to be a meaningful and relevant spiritual practice for many believers today.

Four Steps of Lectio Divina

The four steps of lectio divina are lectio (reading), meditatio (meditation), oratio (prayer), and contemplatio (contemplation).

Reading (lectio)

During the first step, lectio, one reads a passage of scripture. This is not just a casual reading but a slow, deliberate, and reflective reading of the text. This step aims to internalize the passage’s words and phrases deeply; listen carefully for any words or phrases that seem to jump out. It is important not to force things but to wait patiently for God to give gentle guidance.

Meditation (meditatio)

Following lectio is meditatio, where the practitioner meditates on the words and phrases they have read. Try not to analyze the passage. It is easy to slip into “study mode” and think about interesting points rather than listen to God’s words. Some might need to ask God to calm our minds and open our ears and hearts to the movement of words. What is one word or phrase the Holy Spirit impresses on you?  In silence, meditate on that.

Prayer/Response (oratio)

The next step is oratio, or prayer/response. The third reading of the same passage invites us to enter the passage as an observer or a specific character. In this step, the reader enters a dialogue with God, reflecting on how the passage speaks to their personal life situation, experiences, and emotions. This step often involves asking for God’s guidance and being open to receiving spiritual insight.

For some, journaling may be a way of responding to what God is saying to them, especially for those prone to forgetting what they have become aware of or experienced, even by the next day! We can respond in prayer, too, which gives us the opportunity for a conversation with God. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life relates to today? Write down a prayer or pray quietly.

Contemplation (contemplatio)

The final step, contemplatio, involves silent contemplation and resting in the presence of God. This step allows the practitioner to be with God, letting go of thoughts and words and being open to receiving divine presence and guidance by sitting quietly and allowing God to work. When the mind starts to wander and dart here and there, bring it gently back to stillness.

It’s important to remember that Lectio Divina is not an end or another spiritual practice to tick off our to-do list. It helps us hear specifically and individually from God through Scripture, guided by the Holy Spirit and deepens our relationship with the Divine.  What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture? You can write down what the Lord may be saying to you or a prayer of thanks. Or rest quietly in the Spirit’s presence.

ALL may, SOME should, NONE must