In the Eastern Orthodox Church there’s her tradition called hesychasm. This can be roughly translated as stillness. It is usually related to the practice of the Jesus prayer.
Contemplation is used in the Western tradition of Roman Catholicism and Anglican tradition. Contemplation can be roughly translated as inward gazing or beholding of the Divine.
The Same Experience
Hesychasm and contemplation are two aspects of the same experience. Is the wordless awareness of the Divine presence. It is both a beholding and a stillness. It is mindful awareness of Reality as it is.
A Way of Practice
One way of practice is to use the Jesus prayer to quiet the mind and focus it within. Say in your mind, “Lord Jesus Christ,” as you breathe in. And say in your mind, “Have mercy on me,” as you breathe out.
When the mind is still, drop into the stillness and silence of the moment, just being attentive to the presence of God. This is true contemplation. “Be still, and know” (Ps. 46:10).
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