| Titel: | Similarity in Diversity: Four Shared Functions of Integrative Contemplative Practice Systems |
|---|---|
| Autor: | Oman, Doug |
| Mediengruppe: | chapter |
| Herausgeber: | --- |
| Zeitschrift: | --- |
| Jahr: | 2010 |
| Band: | --- |
| Heft: | --- |
| Seiten: | 7-16 |
| Sprache: | English |
| Abstract: | (from the chapter) The reader of this volume, impressed by the rich descriptions of many diverse systems of spiritual practice, may start to wonder, "What are the shared themes? What patterns emerge amidst this inspiring profusion of perspectives?" In this chapter, I sketch one possible answer—one way of characterizing shared themes and functions that appear in many different systems of practice. Along the way, I propose using the term integrated contemplative practice to describe systems of practice that meet a certain functional threshold. Four common elements or themes can be found, I suggest, in most of the practice systems described in the next eight chapters. These commonalities exist even though some chapters describe comprehensive and clearly defined systems, whereas others present instructively selected highlights from venerable traditions. More specifically, the next four chapters in Part One examine well-defined systems of interrelated practices that are challenging, but can be undertaken by individuals in their entirety. Three systems partly or wholly transcend individual faith traditions (e.g., Mindfulness, Passage Meditation, Mantram), whereas the fourth (Christian-derived Centering Prayer) arose within a particular faith tradition. In contrast, all four chapters in Part Two explore venerable schools (yoga, Zen) or major traditions (Judaism, Islam) that constitute storehouses of wisdom 8 Contemplative practices accumulated over many centuries. Each of these schools or traditions, viewed in its entirety, has accumulated a richer repertoire of techniques than any one individual can fully implement. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved) (chapter) |