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What is Lectio Divina? - Tommy - 07-11-2026
Lectio divina is Latin for "divine reading". It is a traditional Christian monastic practice of prayerfully reading and meditating on Scripture to promote communion with God. Rather than studying the text for information, the goal is to listen to the "Living Word" and allow God to speak directly to your heart.
The practice, formalized by monks like Guigo the Carthusian in the 12th century, generally follows four or five stages:
1. Lectio (Reading): Read a short Scripture passage slowly and attentively, listening for a word or phrase that catches your attention.
2. Meditatio (Meditation): Reflect on the chosen word or phrase. Let it sink into your heart and apply it to your personal life.
3. Oratio (Prayer): Respond to God through an open and honest conversation, expressing your thoughts, feelings, and petitions inspired by the reading.
4. Contemplatio (Contemplation): Rest quietly in God's presence, letting go of words and concepts to simply experience union with Him.
5. Actio (Action): Often added as an alternative fifth step, this involves discerning how the Scripture calls you to live, serve, or act differently in your daily life.
The Carmelites of Australia offer a wonderful description of Lectio Divina:
Quote:The Bible is the Word of God which is always alive and active, always new. Lectio Divina is a traditional way of praying the Scriptures so that the Word of God may penetrate our hearts and that we may grow in an intimate relationship with the Lord. It is a very natural way of prayer and was developed and practised by the early monks and thus came to the first Carmelite hermits.
The Carmelites also have an open invitation to join their Online Group, registration found near the bottom of their website page.