Swanson Kenosis and Prayer

December 6, 2018


[Phenomenology of Prayer]

In the Phenomenology of Prayer, Benson and Wirzba express that the correct posture of prayer is kenosis, which is the intense decentering of self. Kenosis is important for prayer because it empties the mind of everything that is distracting to the consciousness and focuses full attention on God. When your mind is gravitating towards your schedules or other thoughts of the day and not directly in the moment, you further yourself from God and limit the possibility for clear communication.

I tried to pray today using this method. In the beginning it was difficult to pray because I was limiting myself by believing it was foolish and childish, letting my ego get in the way. I realized this and then tried to clear my mind and not say anything instead. Once my mind was clear I felt a little more comfortable and tried again but was still distracted by some of my thoughts. Although I did not feel like I was having a genuine connection, my self concept was a little changed by the end.

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