In this meditation, I invite you to explore how the repetition of a simple word or phrase can lead us towards deeper silence and stillness.
Within our contemplative tradition, we sometimes use a small word or phrase, known as a versiculum, to give the mind a gentle point of focus during meditation.
Beginning with the breath, we introduce the sacred word Maranatha, although you may prefer to use another word such as peace or love.
Rather than forcing the word and breath into a particular rhythm, we allow them to find their own natural balance, gradually drawing our attention away from distraction and towards a deeper experience of presence.
As the meditation progresses, we allow even the word itself to fade, resting in silence and stillness, knowing that we can return to it whenever we need an anchor.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction: From word into silence
00:40 – Entering the present moment
01:23 – Settling the body into stillness
02:04 – Becoming aware of the breath
02:47 – Breathing with the whole body
03:32 – Introducing the sacred word
04:03 – Maranatha, peace or love
04:45 – Beginning the repetition
05:24 – Allowing word and breath to find their rhythm
06:10 – Returning when the mind becomes distracted
07:00 – The gentle rhythm of word and breath
07:54 – Let there be only the breath and the word
08:21 – Allowing the word to fade
09:09 – Resting in complete silence
09:38 – Returning to the word when needed
10:28 – Silence as a doorway into peace
10:48 – Returning awareness to the body
11:30 – Closing bell
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