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Evelyn Underhill on Prayer: A Tapestry of Divine Communion

Herbert Cox

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Evelyn Underhill, A Renowned Spiritual Writer And Mystic, In Contemplation Evelyn Underhill S Prayer James Mallory

Evelyn Underhill's Prayer Book

by James Mallory

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	140 pages

In a world often characterized by noise and distraction, the teachings of Evelyn Underhill offer a sanctuary of stillness and profound insight into the nature of prayer and the spiritual life. As a mystic and one of the most influential spiritual writers of the 20th century, Underhill delved into the depths of human experience to explore the transformative power of communion with the divine. Through her writings, she invites us on a journey of self-discovery and guides us towards a deeper understanding of the mysteries that lie within and beyond ourselves.

The Essence of Prayer

According to Underhill, prayer is not merely a matter of words or rituals, but a profound encounter between the human soul and the divine presence. It is an act of communion, an exchange of love, and a means of aligning ourselves with the cosmic forces that shape our existence. Underhill believed that prayer should not be confined to specific times or places, but should permeate every aspect of our lives, becoming a constant dialogue with the divine.

The Seven Stages of Prayer

In her seminal work, "The Life of Prayer," Underhill outlined seven stages of prayer, each representing a deepening level of communion with the divine. These stages include:

Vocal Prayer: The most basic form of prayer, involving the use of words or mantras to express devotion and petition.
Mental Prayer: A more inward form of prayer, where the mind focuses on specific thoughts, images, or concepts related to the divine.
Affective Prayer: Characterized by the presence of strong emotions and a sense of love or awe in relation to the divine.
Contemplative Prayer: A state of deep absorption in the divine, transcending the use of words or thoughts.
Mystical Prayer: The highest stage of prayer, characterized by a profound union with the divine, often accompanied by visions or other extraordinary experiences.

The Importance of Devotion

Underhill emphasized the importance of devotion as a foundation for prayer. According to her, devotion is not mere sentimentality, but a conscious surrender of the self to the divine. It is a practice of love, gratitude, and service that prepares the soul for deeper levels of communion. Underhill believed that through devotion, we open ourselves to the transformative power of grace, which can lead us to a state of spiritual maturity.

Practical Guidance for Prayer

While Underhill's teachings offer profound insights into the nature of prayer, she also provided practical guidance for those seeking to deepen their prayer life. She encouraged the use of simple and repetitive prayers, as well as the practice of setting aside specific times for prayer and meditation. Underhill also emphasized the importance of finding a spiritual guide or mentor to support and guide individuals on their journey of prayer.

The Legacy of Evelyn Underhill

Evelyn Underhill's teachings continue to inspire and guide spiritual seekers around the world. Her writings have been translated into numerous languages and have had a profound impact on the development of Christian spirituality in the 20th and 21st centuries. Underhill's insights into the nature of prayer and the spiritual life remain as relevant today as they were during her lifetime.

Through her profound teachings, Evelyn Underhill invites us to embark on a transformative journey of prayer and self-discovery. By delving into the essence of communion with the divine, we can cultivate a deeper sense of purpose, meaning, and connection. Underhill's legacy serves as a testament to the enduring power of prayer and its ability to uplift, inspire, and guide us towards a life of spiritual fulfillment.

Evelyn Underhill's Prayer Book

by James Mallory

4.8 out of 5