Contemplation comes from the latin root templum (from Greek temnein: to cut or divide), and means to separate something from its environment, and to enclose it in a sector. Contemplation is the Latin translation of Greek 'theory'. In a religious sense it is a type of prayer or meditation. Within Christianity it is related to mysticism, and portrayed by the works of authors such as Teresa of Avila, Margery Kempe, Augustine Baker and Thomas Merton. Many religions share the concept of contemplation. Naropa University, for example, offers a Master's program in contemplative education in the context of Buddhism.

Other usage

In a non-religious sense, contemplation can also mean:

• an act of considering with attention;
• the act of regarding steadily.

See also

• Meditation
• Prayer of Quiet

Contemplación | Contemplation | Contemplatie