The Essence of Being: A Contemplation on Prayer

Thomas Merton's assertion that "Prayer is not just doing something. Prayer is being something" invites us to reconsider our understanding of prayer. In a world often dominated by action and productivity, Merton's words remind us that the essence of prayer transcends mere activity; it is a state of being that connects us to the divine and to ourselves. This distinction is crucial, as it challenges the prevalent notion that prayer is merely a ritual or a task to be completed, urging us instead to embrace a deeper, more contemplative approach to our spiritual lives.

To grasp the full weight of Merton's insight, we must explore the implications of being versus doing. In our fast-paced lives, we often equate worth with action, measuring our spiritual lives by the frequency of our prayers or the rituals we perform. Yet, Merton invites us to shift our focus from the external acts of prayer to the internal transformation it can foster. This shift not only enriches our spiritual practice but also cultivates a profound sense of presence and awareness that can permeate every aspect of our lives.

The image / the metaphor

Merton's quote employs a striking contrast between the verbs "doing" and "being," each evoking a distinct image. "Doing" conjures up a sense of busyness, of tasks to be checked off a list, while "being" suggests a state of existence, a grounding in the present moment. The imagery here is powerful; it invites us to envision prayer not as a series of actions performed in isolation but as a holistic experience that encompasses our entire being. This perspective encourages us to approach prayer with a sense of openness and receptivity, rather than obligation.

Diving deeper into the metaphor, we can see that "being" implies a relationship—a connection to something greater than ourselves. It suggests that prayer is not merely about the words we speak or the thoughts we articulate, but about the quality of our presence in the moment. This understanding aligns with contemplative practices that emphasize stillness and silence, where the essence of prayer is found not in the noise of our thoughts but in the quietude of our hearts. In this way, Merton's insight becomes a call to cultivate an inner landscape that is rich with awareness and connection.

In the speaker's tradition

Thomas Merton, a Trappist monk, was deeply influenced by the contemplative traditions of both Christianity and Eastern philosophies. His understanding of prayer as a state of being resonates with concepts such as kenosis, the self-emptying of one's will to make space for divine presence. This idea parallels the Buddhist notion of sunyata, or emptiness, which invites practitioners to let go of attachments and ego-driven desires to experience a deeper reality. Both traditions emphasize the importance of inner transformation over external actions, highlighting the profound connection between being and prayer.

In Merton's own writings, particularly in "Thoughts in Solitude," he reflects on the nature of solitude and silence as essential components of prayer. He writes about the necessity of withdrawing from the distractions of the world to cultivate a deeper relationship with God. This aligns with the Christian tradition of contemplative prayer, where the focus is on being present to God rather than on the act of praying itself. Merton's insights encourage us to embrace solitude as a means of deepening our understanding of prayer as a state of being.

Living the teaching

Consider a modern scenario where this teaching might resonate: a busy professional who feels overwhelmed by the demands of work and life. In such a context, the individual may approach prayer as another task on their to-do list, perhaps reciting a few lines before bed or during a brief moment of quiet. However, if they were to embrace Merton's perspective, they might instead find a few moments throughout the day to simply be present—taking a deep breath, feeling the ground beneath their feet, and allowing themselves to connect with the stillness within. This shift transforms prayer from a chore into a nourishing practice that infuses their daily life with peace and awareness.

Another application of this teaching can be found in relationships, particularly during moments of conflict or misunderstanding. Instead of reacting with words or actions driven by frustration, one might pause to embody the essence of prayer—being present, listening deeply, and allowing space for vulnerability. In this way, prayer becomes a practice of being with another person, fostering connection and understanding rather than division. By embodying the principles of Merton's teaching, we can transform our interactions into sacred moments of presence and love.

A reflection

As we contemplate Merton's profound insight, we are invited to reflect on our own relationship with prayer. Are we approaching prayer as a series of tasks to be completed, or are we allowing it to shape our very being? In what ways can we cultivate a deeper sense of presence in our daily lives, transforming our understanding of prayer from doing to being? Let this contemplation guide you as you explore the essence of your spiritual practice.