Date of Award

1-15-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Mindfulness Studies

First Advisor

Melissa Jean

Second Advisor

Andrew Olendzki

Abstract

Through the exploration of meditation practices within Islam, Judaism, and Christianity, this paper emphasizes the shared intention among practitioners of these Abrahamic traditions to connect with the Divine Presence of God in daily life. In modern America, where religious diversity and secularism coexist, meditation practices have gained traction in spiritual settings, secular spaces, religious communities, and other environments. This paper reviews three key meditation practices: the dhikr practice in Islam, the “Just Being” Shabbat practice in Judaism, and the “Silence as a Door to God” practice in Christianity. Through this review, significant phenomenological parallels emerge: the practices of cultivating stillness of mind, letting go of distractions, and familiarizing oneself with the felt Presence of God. These shared elements highlight a unifying pursuit that each religion shares—an intention to cultivate a personal connection with God. This paper concludes with a novel meditation exercise, featuring a written script and an audio recording of a practice that incorporates shared language from each tradition. It enables observant individuals of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity to recognize their common humanity through a meditation practice that supports the shared sacred pursuit of connecting deeply with God.

Language

English

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