Communicating with the Divine through Meditation
Intro
Meditation serves as a bridge for many individuals seeking to connect with the divine. This connection may vary based on personal beliefs and experiences. For some, it represents an act of devotion, while for others, it can be an exploration of inner peace and clarity. Understanding how meditation contributes to this spiritual endeavor is vital for progress.
Research suggests that meditation has deep roots across various cultures and religions. From ancient traditions to modern practices, this technique continues to attract widespread attention for its potential benefits. This guide aims to outline critical aspects of meditation, focusing on its relationship with the divine and how individuals can incorporate it into their spiritual quest.
The forthcoming sections will present practical insights, various meditation techniques, and explore the mental frameworks supporting these practices. Each component is designed to equip the reader with the tools needed for personal exploration and understanding.
Benefits of Guided Meditation
Guided meditation offers a structured approach that can facilitate a deeper connection with the divine. It often involves listening to a facilitator who leads participants through a series of instructions. This technique can yield several benefits, including:
- Enhancing Mindfulness: Regular practice can cultivate mindfulness, enabling individuals to remain present. This awareness may lead to a more profound experience during meditation, making it easier to connect with the divine.
- Reducing Anxiety: Many practitioners find that guided meditation helps alleviate anxiety. The calming voice of the facilitator combined with breathing techniques helps ground practitioners, allowing for a peaceful state of mind.
Guided meditation often serves as an entry point for beginners, providing a clear pathway to explore one's spirituality. It may also be beneficial for seasoned practitioners looking to deepen their practice.
Techniques for Connecting with the Divine Through Meditation
Understanding various techniques can enhance the experience of connecting with the divine. These methods can range from traditional forms to more contemporary approaches. Key techniques include:
- Visualization: Imagining a serene place or the presence of a divine figure can create a conducive environment for connection. This technique encourages emotional engagement, allowing individuals to feel more in tune with their spiritual side.
- Mantra Meditation: Repeating sacred phrases or words can help focus the mind and strengthen the connection with the divine. Over time, the repetition can lead to a tranquil state, creating space for reflection and insight.
- Breathing Techniques: Focusing on the breath is crucial in many meditation practices. Engaging in specific breathing patterns can enhance relaxation and heighten awareness during the session.
Incorporating these techniques into a personalized practice creates an opportunity for deeper connections and spiritual growth.
"Meditation is not about stopping thoughts, but recognizing that they are just thoughts and letting them go."
Approaches Based on Diverse Belief Systems
Spirituality varies among individuals, with different belief systems influencing practices. It is essential to appreciate this diversity and how it impacts meditation.
- Christian Meditation: Often centers on scripture and prayer, focusing on listening for divine guidance. This approach encourages practitioners to reflect on their relationship with God.
- Buddhist Meditation: Focuses on mindfulness and loving-kindness, encouraging an understanding of impermanence and compassion. This practice guides individuals toward inner peace and awareness.
- Hindu Meditation: Often incorporates visualization, chanting, and yogic principles. This approach may emphasize connecting with deities or universal consciousness.
By understanding and respecting these unique approaches, practitioners can find a meditation style that resonates with their spiritual beliefs.
Finale
Exploring meditation as a means of communicating with the divine is an enriching journey. The benefits of guided meditation, combined with various techniques and approaches, offer a roadmap for individuals seeking deeper spiritual connections. As one engages with these practices, the potential for personal growth and understanding becomes profound. Dedicating time to this practice not only enhances spiritual awareness but also fosters a sense of community among practitioners.
Understanding the Concept of Divine Communication
The idea of communicating with the divine holds significant depth for many individuals. In the context of spiritual practices, understanding this concept becomes vital. Divine communication often reflects profound insights, emotional well-being, and personal enlightenment. This engagement fosters a sense of inner peace and connection to something larger than oneself.
The relationship between meditation and divine communication reveals how inner stillness can create a space for clarity. Practitioners can experience moments of insight or transcendence. Recognizing these moments can lead to transformative changes in life perspectives.
The importance of this understanding extends to how meditation can act as a bridge. It facilitates the dialogue between the practitioner and the divine. By cultivating this connection, individuals may overcome feelings of isolation. Instead, they can embrace a more fulfilling communal existence, regardless of their belief systems.
Defining Spirituality
Spirituality is a complex and multifaceted term, often unique to the individual. It encompasses a person’s search for meaning, purpose, and understanding. While often linked to religion, spirituality can exist outside traditional boundaries. For some, it appears as a deep connection to nature or a commitment to personal growth. Others may find spirituality within specific religious contexts or rituals.
Understanding spirituality necessitates recognizing its subjective nature. For each person, the essence of spirituality may vary greatly, illustrating its personal significance. The core element often revolves around the search for connection—connection with the self, others, and something greater.
The Role of Meditation in Spiritual Practices
Meditation establishes itself as a keystone in various spiritual practices across cultures. It functions not just as a method to alleviate stress, but also as a profound tool for spiritual awakening. Meditation cultivates mindfulness, allowing individuals to observe their thoughts from a distance. This process creates space for deeper reflection.
Practitioners report that meditation can facilitate a more intimate relationship with their spiritual selves. In many traditions, meditation techniques are designed to enhance the sensitivity of awareness. This awareness can heighten receptivity to divine communication. Regular practice can lead to deeper states of clarity and insight.
"Through meditation, one may awaken to the voice of the divine that often goes unheard amid the chaos of daily life."
It is crucial to note that the approach to meditation can differ among spiritual beliefs. Yet, the overarching benefits remain strikingly similar—enhanced well-being, clarity of thought, and a profound connection within one's spiritual journey. Thus, the role of meditation is paramount in those endeavors aimed at communion with the divine.
The Intersection of Meditation and Spirituality
Understanding the intersection of meditation and spirituality is essential for those seeking a deeper connection with the divine. Meditation serves as a bridge for individuals to explore their inner selves, quiet the noise of everyday life, and engage in meaningful reflection. This intersection is not just theoretical; it offers tangible benefits. It can enhance mental clarity, reduce anxiety, and foster a sense of belonging to something greater than oneself. When one engages in meditation, it opens avenues for spiritual growth that are difficult to achieve through conventional means.
Historical Perspectives on Meditation
Meditation has a long and storied history. Its origins can be traced back thousands of years across various cultures. In ancient India, meditation was integral to Hinduism and Buddhism, aiming to achieve enlightenment and a profound understanding of life’s purpose. The earliest texts, like the Vedas, mention meditation as a crucial practice for spiritual seekers. Similarly, in ancient Egypt, directed thought and contemplation formed part of the spiritual exercise meant to connect with the divine.
In the West, ancient Greek philosophers practiced forms of contemplation that resemble meditation. Figures such as Plato and Plotinus emphasized introspection and the search for higher truths. Over the centuries, these practices evolved, merging with various religious doctrines while maintaining their core purpose — facilitating contact with the divine.
Different Traditions and Their Meditative Practices
Meditative practices vary significantly across cultures and traditions. Understanding these differences enriches one’s approach to meditation, allowing for a more personalized spiritual experience.
- Hinduism often employs mantra-based meditation, where the repeated sound acts as a medium to focus the mind and connect with the divine. This practice aligns with the belief that sound has spiritual power.
- Buddhism primarily emphasizes mindfulness and insight meditation. Techniques such as observing the mind's activities aim to cultivate awareness and ultimately lead to enlightenment.
- Christian traditions have also embraced contemplative prayer as a form of meditation. This practice involves stillness, silence, and active listening to experience a relationship with the divine.
- In Taoism, meditation aligns with the philosophy of living in harmony with the Tao. Breath techniques and visualization are used to unite the practitioner with nature’s rhythms.
Across these traditions, while techniques may differ, the core intention remains similar: a desire to cultivate spiritual insight and connect with a higher power. This diversity underscores the universal appeal of meditation.
"Meditation is a way to let the ordinary be extraordinary. It guides us to deeper self-awareness and provides insights that transcend the mundane."
By recognizing the rich tapestry of meditative practices, one can select approaches that resonate most clearly with their personal beliefs, allowing for a more profound spiritual journey.
Preparing for Meditative Practice
Preparing for meditation is essential to optimize one's experience and deepen the connection to spiritual practices. It establishes the groundwork for what follows, allowing practitioners to immerse themselves fully. Mindfully setting up this stage leads to clarity of thought and intention.
Creating a Sacred Space
Creating a sacred space is a fundamental step in preparing for meditation. Such a space provides the right ambience conducive to contemplation and connection. This area can be anywhere quiet, such as a corner of a room or a garden. The important part is that it feels special and personal to the practitioner.
In this space, it’s common to include elements that enhance the atmosphere. These may include candles, incense, crystals, or images that hold personal significance. Each of these items serves not only as an aesthetic component but also as a reminder of a spiritual intention.
Moreover, ensuring that the space remains free from distractions is critical. This includes silencing electronic devices and tidying up the surroundings. The more peaceful and inviting the space, the more focused the meditation becomes.
Setting Intentions for Meditation
Setting intentions is an essential aspect of preparing for a meditative practice. It helps clarify what one seeks to achieve during the session, guiding thoughts and actions appropriately.
Clarifying Purpose
Clarifying purpose involves defining the specific motivation for engaging in meditation. This can be healing, inquiry, or a desire for inner peace. Understanding the 'why' behind the practice gives direction and focus. It is a beneficial strategy because it emphasizes personal goals, enabling the practitioner to concentrate on their unique needs.
The unique feature of clarifying purpose is that it anchors the meditation session in intention. This gives the experience weight, making it more meaningful and effective. However, on the downside, overly rigid purposes can lead to disappointment if the expected result is not achieved, emphasizing the need for flexibility in approach.
Establishing Goals
Establishing goals is another important practice in preparing for meditation. Goals can range from committing to a daily practice to attaining specific emotional states during meditation. Well-defined goals create a sense of accountability and contribute to personal growth.
The key characteristic of establishing goals is that it motivates continued practice. Goals can also be adjusted as one's meditation journey evolves. This adaptability is advantageous, allowing the practice to stay relevant and beneficial. On the other hand, focusing excessively on outcomes may hinder the enjoyment of the process itself, which is an important balance to maintain.
Techniques for Effective Meditation
Effective meditation techniques form the cornerstone of any spiritual practice aimed at communicating with the divine. They help practitioners gain clarity, enhance focus, and foster a deeper understanding of their inner selves. The right techniques can also deepen one's connection with their spirituality, making meditation not just a routine, but a meaningful practice. By choosing appropriate methods, individuals can tailor their experiences to fit their specific needs and ensure long-lasting benefits.
Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is a widely practiced technique that emphasizes being present in the moment without judgment. It encourages awareness of thoughts, feelings, and sensations as they arise, fostering a deeper understanding of oneself. The significance of mindfulness lies in its effectiveness in reducing anxiety and stress while allowing one to connect more profoundly with their spiritual essence.
Focus on Breath
Focusing on breath is a fundamental aspect of mindfulness meditation. This technique guides practitioners to bring their attention to their breathing patterns, serving as an anchor in the present moment. The simplicity of this method makes it a popular choice for many. It provides immediate access to calmness and centering, which can facilitate communication with the divine.
The central feature of focusing on breath is its ability to ground the mind. When one concentrates on inhaling and exhaling, it minimizes distractions, allowing for a clearer channel to spiritual insights. However, it may require practice, as wandering thoughts can disrupt the experience. Nonetheless, its advantages outweigh the challenges, making it an essential meditation technique.
Body Scan Method
The body scan method involves systematically focusing on different parts of the body. This technique encourages relaxation and body awareness, allowing the individual to release tension and be in the moment. Its significance in the context of connecting with the divine stems from the deep relaxation it offers, paving the way for heightened spiritual experiences.
A key characteristic of the body scan method is its holistic approach. It acknowledges the interconnectedness of body and mind, fostering an environment conducive to spiritual exploration. While some may find it challenging to maintain focus throughout the scan, it is a beneficial technique that enhances self-awareness and leads to a deeper connection with oneself and the divine.
Mantra Meditation
Mantra meditation involves the repeated recitation of specific phrases or sounds. It serves as a powerful tool for concentration, enabling practitioners to enter deeper states of meditation. The adoption of mantra meditation is favored for its ability to transcend ordinary thoughts and facilitate profound spiritual engagement.
Choosing a Mantra
Selecting an appropriate mantra is crucial in mantra meditation. The mantra can be a phrase or sound that resonates personally with the practitioner. This specific aspect encourages engagement and lends itself to effective communication with the divine.
The key characteristic of choosing a mantra is its personal nature. A well-chosen mantra can evoke feelings of calmness and connection, acting as a bridge to spiritual awareness. However, it may take time to find the right one, as it must resonate with the individual. Despite this potential challenge, its advantages in fostering focus and deepening meditation practice are substantial.
Implementing Repetition Techniques
The implementation of repetition techniques in mantra meditation enhances its effectiveness. By consistently repeating the mantra, practitioners can immerse themselves in the meditative state more easily. This method expedites the progression toward spiritual enlightenment, contributing to an overall sense of tranquility.
A defining feature of implementing repetition techniques is their capacity to quiet the mind. This can lead to deep introspection and facilitate communication with divine forces. Although monotony can sometimes set in, incorporating varying rhythms and speeds in repetition can renew interest and maintain focus during the practice.
Guided Visualizations
Guided visualizations are another effective technique in meditation that involves imagining specific scenarios or places, often led by an instructor or recorded session. This method can foster deep relaxation and enhance connection with the divine.
The inclusion of guided visualizations can allow practitioners to explore their spiritual landscapes more vividly. This technique helps to create a safe and inviting environment for spiritual exploration and discovery. While some may find this approach may require guidance at first, individuals can benefit significantly from the structured experience it provides.
The Role of Silence and Solitude in Meditation
Silence and solitude are pivotal components in the practice of meditation. They create an environment conducive to introspection and allow individuals to engage with their inner selves on a deeper level. In a world filled with noise and distractions, embracing silence enables one to quiet the mind. This quietness is essential for establishing a connection with the divine. Without the clutter of daily life, one can more easily perceive subtle insights that arise during meditation.
Beyond the surface benefits of tranquility, silence invites a clarity of thought and a sense of receptiveness. Many traditions emphasize the importance of silence as a space for spiritual awakening. In fact, this stillness can foster profound realizations and stir a sense of peace that resonates throughout life's challenges.
Embracing Solitude for Spiritual Growth
Solitude plays a vital role in fostering spiritual growth. Being alone allows you to reflect without external influences. When you engage in solitude, you provide yourself a unique opportunity to connect with your thoughts and feelings without interruptions. This unfiltered connection can lead to deeper self-awareness and personal transformation.
Many spiritual practices advise regular periods of solitude. Here are some notable benefits:
- Clarity in Thought: Solitude offers a chance to reflect on your beliefs, enabling you to sort through complex emotions and achieve clarity.
- Self-Discovery: By spending time alone, you can uncover aspects of yourself that may be overshadowed by societal expectations.
- Increased Creativity: Solitude can ignite creativity. When you are alone, ideas can flow freely, unrestrained by the judgments of others.
In meditative practices, solitude becomes even more significant. It may involve seeking out quiet spaces in nature or creating a peaceful environment at home. By embracing this solitude, you enrich your spiritual journey, allowing for genuine connection with the divine.
The Power of Silence in Communication with the Divine
Silence has an extraordinary power when it comes to communication with the divine. In many spiritual traditions, it is believed that divine communication often transcends words. The heart speaks in whispers, requiring silence for these soft messages to be heard. During meditation, this pause from noise allows individuals to attune themselves to a higher frequency of understanding.
In silence, one learns to listen actively—not just to thoughts but to the subtler dimensions of existence. Consider the following aspects of silence in spiritual communication:
- Deep Listening: Silence enables the practice of deep listening, essential for receiving insights or messages from the divine.
- Intuitive Guidance: In a silent space, intuition becomes more pronounced, guiding one toward decisions and insights that feel aligned with their spiritual path.
- Inner Peace: Silence cultivates an inner peace that can anchor one's spiritual life, making it easier to discern true desires from distractions.
"In the silence, we find our deepest truths."
Ultimately, silence serves as a bridge to the divine. It allows for meaningful exchanges and profound realizations on the spiritual journey. Incorporating periods of silence and solitude into your meditation practice can deepen your experience and enhance your ability to connect with the divine.
Interpreting Spiritual Experiences During Meditation
Understanding spiritual experiences is vital for anyone embarking on a meditation journey. These experiences can often be profound and may leave practitioners questioning their significance and authenticity. Interpreting these moments can deepen one's spiritual practice and enhance the connection with the divine. It's essential to approach these experiences with an analytical lens to derive meaning and integrate insights into daily life.
Spiritual experiences vary widely among practitioners. They can range from a feeling of deep peace to moments of clarity or awareness of a higher presence. Some report vibrant visions, while others might experience heightened intuition or emotional releases. These phenomena often serve as a reflection of individual beliefs, backgrounds, and intentions during meditation.
Common Experiences Encountered
Meditators may encounter a variety of spiritual experiences. Recognizing these can assist in navigating the meditative journey. Some of the most common experiences include:
- Deep Sense of Peace: Many practitioners report feeling profound calm and tranquility during meditation. This state can foster a sense of connection to something greater than oneself.
- Vivid Imagery or Visions: Occasionally, meditators may see images or scenes that hold personal significance. This can be seen as a form of communication from a higher power or the unconscious mind.
- Emotional Releases: Some may find that meditation brings forth buried emotions, resulting in tears or laughter. This release can be cathartic and healing.
- Heightened Awareness: A common sensation during meditation is increased awareness of thoughts and sensations. This often cultivates a more profound understanding of the self.
Each experience offers unique insights into one's personal spirituality and can guide further exploration.
Differentiating Between Illusion and True Experience
Discerning illusion from genuine spiritual experiences is crucial. Illusions may arise from the mind's tendency to create narratives or stimulate fear and anxiety. True experiences, however, often resonate with a sense of clarity and align with a deeper understanding of self. Here are some considerations for distinguishing between the two:
- Authenticity Check: Genuine experiences tend to feel authentic. They resonate at a profound level and often create lasting changes in perception.
- Emotional Impact: True spiritual moments may evoke lasting emotional shifts, while illusions often fade quickly.
- Relevance: Reflect on whether the experience offers valuable insights or guidance. True experiences tend to inform one's spiritual path in meaningful ways.
- Physical Responses: Pay attention to the body's reactions. Physical sensations such as warmth or expansion may indicate a deeper, genuine experience.
By understanding the distinction between illusion and true spiritual experiences, practitioners can filter and interpret their meditation in a more meaningful way. This distinction fosters trust in one's intuition and helps cultivate a fulfilling spiritual life.
Integrating Meditation into Daily Life
Integrating meditation into daily life holds significant importance for anyone looking to cultivate a deeper spiritual connection. It is not merely an occasional practice; rather, it should be woven seamlessly into the fabric of one's everyday routine. Doing so allows individuals to remain grounded and maintain a consistent dialogue with the divine. The benefits of regular meditation can manifest in enhanced emotional resilience, better mental clarity, and a profound sense of inner peace. When meditation is made a regular part of life, it transforms from a standalone activity into a vital component of one's spiritual armor.
Developing a Consistent Routine
Creating a consistent meditation routine is critical for efficacy. It sets the stage for the mind and body to engage with the practice meaningfully. Individuals should consider their current lifestyle and identify the best times for meditation. Morning may work well for some, while others might find they are more inclined to connect in the evening.
A few suggestions for developing a routine include:
- Start Small: Commit to just five to ten minutes each day. Gradually increase the duration as comfort grows.
- Same Time Daily: Try to meditate at the same time each day. This helps form a habit, making it feel as natural as brushing your teeth.
- Utilize Reminders: Set alarms or use apps to remind yourself to meditate. Visualization cues like sticky notes in visible places can also serve as gentle prompts.
- Adapt as Needed: Life is dynamic, and so is meditation. If a set time does not work, be flexible. Find what fits your life best.
This consistent approach encourages not just regular practice but helps deepen spiritual understanding over time.
Overcoming Barriers to Regular Practice
Obstacles to maintaining a meditation practice can arise. These may include time constraints, distractions, or even self-doubt. However, recognizing and addressing these barriers is essential for progress.
Here are strategies to overcome common roadblocks:
- Time Management: Schedule meditation as you would any important appointment. If your day is too packed, meditate during a lunch break or before bed.
- Create a Calm Environment: Establish a designated meditation space that is free from distractions. A serene atmosphere can enhance focus and relaxation.
- Stay Committed: Acknowledge that days might be missed. It's normal. Instead of being discouraged, remind yourself why you began this journey and refocus your intent.
- Community Support: Engage with meditation groups online or offline. Sharing experiences can provide motivation and reduce feelings of isolation.
Maintaining a regular meditation practice is a journey. Small steps can lead to profound changes in spiritual awareness and overall well-being.
By actively addressing barriers and establishing a routine, meditation can flow seamlessly into daily life. This integration not only enriches one’s mental state but also acts as a bridge to deeper communication with the divine.
Evaluating the Impact of Meditation on Spirituality
Meditation plays a crucial role in the exploration of spirituality. It allows individuals to reflect on their thoughts and emotions, creating a gateway to deeper understanding. Evaluating the impact of meditation on one's spiritual journey involves recognizing its potential benefits and the changes it fosters. Through consistent practice, individuals often report profound insights and transformations that ripple through various aspects of their lives. This section will address specific elements that contribute to this evaluation and the overarching significance meditation holds in connecting with the divine.
Assessing Personal Growth
When assessing personal growth, consider how meditation cultivates resilience and emotional balance. Regular meditation often leads to increased self-awareness, as practitioners gain insight into their habitual thought patterns. This awareness is essential for growth, facilitating a clearer perspective on life's challenges.
Here are some key benefits associated with personal growth through meditation:
- Enhanced emotional intelligence: A deeper understanding of one's emotions enables better interactions with others.
- Stress reduction: Regular practice reduces feelings of anxiety and promotes calmness.
- Greater clarity in decision-making: With enhanced focus, individuals can make choices aligned with their spiritual goals.
Measuring personal growth can also involve keeping a journal to document changes and insights that arise. This method not only tracks progress but also reinforces commitment to the practice.
Recognizing Changes in Perspective
Meditation often shifts one's perspective dramatically. As individuals delve into their spiritual practices, they may notice a gradual transformation in how they view themselves and the world around them. A change in perspective can manifest in several ways:
- Increased compassion towards others, fostering a sense of interconnectedness.
- Greater appreciation for the present moment, which helps mitigate feelings of regret about the past or anxiety about the future.
- Challenging previously held beliefs about oneself or spirituality, allowing for more authentic expression of one’s true self.
"Meditation is not about getting rid of thoughts or emotions. It is about observing them without judgment."
These shifts often arise subtly but are integral to one’s spiritual evolution. Acknowledging these changes can reinforce a commitment to meditation and enhance one’s spiritual journey, ultimately leading to a richer, more fulfilling life.
Resources for Continued Exploration of Meditation
Engaging with meditation requires ongoing exploration and learning. Resources allow individuals to delve into the practice more deeply. They can offer new techniques, perspectives, and insights that are crucial in this journey. These resources serve multiple purposes: they provide knowledge, support, and a sense of community. Exploring these means can enhance an individual’s practice, leading to more profound spiritual experiences with the divine.
Books and Literature
Reading books on meditation is an excellent way to inform oneself. There are many titles available that cater to various interests and experiences. Authors like Jon Kabat-Zinn and Thich Nhat Hanh offer valuable insights into mindfulness and meditation. Their work not only explains techniques but also explores philosophical aspects underpinning meditation practices. Readers can find historical context, guided practices, and personal anecdote within these texts.
Some notable books to consider include:
- "Wherever You Go, There You Are" by Jon Kabat-Zinn
- "The Miracle of Mindfulness" by Thich Nhat Hanh
- "The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching" by Thich Nhat Hanh
- "Meditation for Beginners" by Jack Kornfield
Reading these sources can help in solidifying the understanding of meditation as a spiritual practice. They also offer valuable tips for incorporating techniques into daily life, making meditation more accessible.
Online Courses and Platforms
In today's digital age, the availability of online courses on meditation is vast. Websites like Udemy and Coursera offer structured courses that range from beginner to advanced levels. Many platforms feature instructors who are experienced practitioners. They provide guidance that is both practical and theoretical. This diversity allows individuals to select courses that fit their specific needs and schedules.
Some recommended platforms are:
- Insight Timer for free guided meditations.
- Headspace, focusing on mindfulness and emotional well-being.
- Coursera, partnering with universities for comprehensive courses on meditation.
- Udemy, offering a wide range of meditation courses tailored to different interests.
Engaging with online courses not only deepens one's practice but also connects practitioners with a larger community. These resources can facilitate interactions, creating opportunities for discussions and sharing experiences with fellow meditators.
Overall, utilizing varied resources can expand knowledge and enhance the practice of meditation. This, in turn, nurtures a more profound and meaningful connection with the divine.
