Dictionary

Here you find a collection of technical terms and concepts from zen, contemplation, mindfulnes as well as psychology and religious studies that stem from the traditions that are practiced at the Benediktushof.

We have compiled this collection to the best of our knowledge and belief. Every dictionary is a living web of concepts and therefore nevere complete. Therefore we welcome any suggestions for additions and improvements by e-mail.

 

Practice/Exercise

The word “practice” originally means “to cultivate, to nurture” and, in the context of spiritual “practice” paths, it does not mean the acquisition of certain skills, but rather the repeated putting oneself in motion, the “nurturing” of a habit that continually gives the practitioner new perspectives, new insights and more awareness. Understood in this way, the exercise has no goal and no end, but is life itself.

Prayer gestures

Prayer as an encounter with the divine is not limited to verbal prayer. Religions have known prayer with the body since ancient times. When praying with the body, the whole body with its expressive possibilities (prayer gestures) is included in the prayer, and the prayer is thereby grounded and can be experienced concretely.