Thomas Keating Quotes

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The opposite of inner emptiness is not inner fullness; it is a false self."

The quote suggests that attempting to fill an empty, authentic self with artificial or superficial qualities (the "false self") does not address the core issue of inner emptiness. Instead, the genuine path to fulfillment involves embracing our true selves, which may at times feel empty or void, and allowing spiritual growth to occur within that space. The false self is a barrier that prevents us from experiencing genuine wholeness and connection.

"True prayer is neither speaking nor listening but the silent communion of love between two friends."

This quote by Thomas Keating suggests that authentic prayer transcends spoken words or audible responses. Instead, it represents a profound, intimate connection - akin to the bond between friends - where communication is rooted in mutual understanding, trust, and love, rather than mere verbal exchange. This silent communion signifies an unspoken yet deeply felt conversation with the divine, where the essence of prayer lies in the shared experience of love.

"Centering Prayer is the opening of mind and heart - our whole being - to Christ, the Word, in the power of the Spirit, to receive the love by which he is made known to us in the human form that we may come to love as he loved and thus be transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing clarity."

This quote by Thomas Keating emphasizes the spiritual practice of Centering Prayer as a means to deepen one's connection with Christ, the divine Word, through the power of the Holy Spirit. By opening our minds and hearts fully, we allow ourselves to receive love in its purest form—as manifested by Jesus in human form. This transformative encounter aims to instill within us the capacity to love as He loved, thus leading to a transformation into Christ's likeness over time. Essentially, Centering Prayer is about deepening our relationship with God and being transformed spiritually by His love.

"The primary task of Centering Prayer is to foster the conditions for the emergence of contemplative consciousness."

This quote by Thomas Keating indicates that the main goal of Centering Prayer is to facilitate the development of a state of mind known as "contemplative consciousness." In this state, one's awareness is focused inwardly without engaging in mental activity or distraction. The aim is not to achieve emptiness or nothingness, but rather to create an environment where God can be experienced in silence and stillness. This process encourages a deeper connection with oneself, others, and the divine.

"The ultimate goal of all our efforts is to allow God's love to saturate every cell of our being and transform us into loving persons, open and responsive to God's presence in all creation."

This quote by Thomas Keating emphasizes that the primary objective of spiritual practice is not just personal enlightenment or salvation, but rather a profound transformation of one's self. The aim is to become so deeply infused with divine love that it permeates every aspect of our being, influencing not only our thoughts and feelings but also our physical existence. In this transformed state, we become sensitive to the presence of God in all creation, fostering a heightened sense of empathy, compassion, and connection with the world around us. This quote encourages us to seek spiritual growth as a means of fostering love and understanding within ourselves and others, aligning our lives more closely with the divine essence.