Prayer vs Meditation

“Prayer is a way offered by the Holy Spirit to reach God.” (ACIM, S-1.I.1:1)

“Nor is a lifetime of contemplation and long periods of meditation aimed at detachment from the body necessary.” (ACIM, T-18.VII.4:9)

Traditionally, prayer has been understood as a way of asking God for what we want and need. A Course in Miracles (ACIM) would not disagree, as long as students understand that there is really only one thing we need, meaning there is only one problem and one answer.

“Prayer is a stepping aside; a letting go, a quiet time of listening and loving. It should not be confused with supplication of any kind, because it is a way of remembering your holiness.” (ACIM, S-1.I.5:1-2)

Reviewing The Song of Prayer section, I. True Prayer (ACIM, S-1.I), will further elucidate what the Course teaches about prayer and its purpose; reiterating why forgiveness is really the only meaningful prayer. 

Other than what is included in the Workbook lessons, the practice of formal meditation is not a requirement of ACIM. The Course does, however, point us frequently in the direction of quieting our minds, so that we can better listen to the Holy Spirit. 

Without the sponsorship of any teacher or technique, the ACIM Audio App offers a “Meditate” feature, whose section contains audio narration of curated passages from the Course. This curation has been sourced by Course students throughout the world. ACIM Audio’s ”Meditate” feature is an avenue toward inner peace offering additional listening opportunities.