Is it alright for Christians to meditate?

Question

Is it unchristian or against christianity to meditate? I am a christian and have started to use meditation as a means to clear my mind for the day ahead. Although with the history behind it I am begining to have doubts about it. So back to the question . Do you think it is okay for a christian to meditate?

Answer 1

I know lots of devout christians who meditate. Many hear the voice of God more clearly when they can quiet their mind. It is all in the way you practice.

Peace!

Answer 2

There is nothing "Unchristian" about meditating. As long as you don't pray or worship any other Gods while meditating it is fine. It's a great way to clear your head and relax. I am a Christian and I like to turn on peaceful music and do Yoga. Rick Warren, in The Purpose Driven Life (Zondervan), describes meditation this way: "Meditation is focused thinking. It takes serious effort. You select a verse and reflect on it over and over in your mind...if you know how to worry, you already know how to meditate"

What should we focus on in Christian meditation? "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things" (Philippians 4:8, NASB).

Answer 3

There is nothing wrong or "unchristian" about meditating. Having said that, I will also tell you that *some* Christians (those who do not understand the practice) will say that meditating is opening the door to Satan. No kidding. I have had Christians tell me that in the past. (oh well)

Answer 4

Yes, in fact, the bible instructs us to meditate on God's word. Calming the mind of all the distractions of the world might allow us to hear that still small voice. The bible has many instances where meditation was used.

Original Word Word Origin
xwX a primitive root
Transliterated Word TDNT Entry
Suwach TWOT - 2255
Phonetic Spelling Parts of Speech
soo'-akh Verb

Definition
(Qal) to meditate, muse, commune, speak, complain

Answer 5

It is Biblical to meditate, but meditate upon the word of God. Do not meditate to clear your mind, as that will open you up to an attack by the devil. to keep Satan out of your head think upon those things that are holy and righteous. This is the best way to prepare for your day's work. Forget the Eastern techniques, as they will open you to demonic attack. If you find yourself think and pondering on unholy thoughts, then your meditation is taking a wrong turn. Get the devil out with Jesus.

Answer 6

You do realize monks in the monestaries are taught to meditate. There is Christian meditation - though not taught to lay-people.

Christian mysticism focuses on this. Teresa of Avalon and others meditated.

It is a worthwhile practice - go for it.

~ Eric Putkonen

Answer 7

I believe it's in Psalms that the bible tells you to meditate on His word.

So given that, I'd say it fine to meditate, depending on What you meditate on.

Answer 8

I would think it's ok as long as one meditates on things of a Christian nature. King David in the Psalms was quoted as saying, "I meditate upon thy precepts...." meaning that he spent time in meditation concerning the things God was trying to say to him and etc. It seems to me that in that regard, meditation would be a great way to retain one's focus on God and what it takes to be more like Him.

Answer 9

I'm in favor of head clearing. Meditate.

Answer 10

Meditate for god's sake all these ppl go strictly by the bible