I watch a popular cable movie TV channel that sometimes plays a 2-minute segment of sounds—bubbles, birds, the ocean, etc.—in place of a commercial, with the words “enjoy the zen” across the screen. Every time I hear it, I find myself halting whatever I am doing, closing my eyes, and ending the 2-minute commercial with a deep sigh, releasing all of my stress and feeling a total relaxation of my body. This action is not something I plan or intend to do; it just happens naturally.  This got me thinking about the concept of Zen and how it compares to Christian meditation. 

What is Zen? 

Zen is a school of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasizes meditation, mindfulness, and the simplicity of life. It originated in China during the Tang dynasty as Chan Buddhism and later developed into various schools in Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. The word “Zen” comes from the Japanese pronunciation of the Chinese word “Chan,” which in turn is derived from the Sanskrit word “Dhyana,” meaning “meditation.” 

Zen meditation, or Zazen, involves sitting in a specific posture, focusing on breathing, and observing thoughts without attachment. The goal is to achieve a state of inner peace and enlightenment by transcending the ego and the physical world. 

Christian meditation, on the other hand, involves focusing on God’s Word, reflecting on His attributes, and seeking a deeper relationship with Him. The purpose is not to empty the mind but to fill it with God’s truth and presence. Psalm 1:2 says, “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.” 

Meditation is important for Christians because it helps us focus on God’s Word, understand His will, and draw closer to Him. Joshua 1:8 states, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” 
 

There are many examples of Biblical Meditation.  Here are just a few examples:

1. David: King David often meditated on God’s laws and His works. Psalm 119:15-16 says, “I will meditate on Your precepts, and contemplate Your ways. I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word.” 
2. Isaac: In Genesis 24:63, it says, “And Isaac went out to meditate in the field in the evening; and he lifted his eyes and looked, and there, the camels were coming.” Isaac found a quiet place and time to meditate, reflecting on God’s goodness and promises. 

We often think if we have a quiet place to sit and read the word of God that it counts as meditating on God’s word but there is a process we can follow for Christian Meditation. 

1. Find a Quiet Place: Choose a spot where you can be alone and undisturbed. This could be a room in your house, a garden, or any peaceful place. Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God.” 
2. Set a Regular Time: Establish a daily routine. Early mornings or late evenings often work well because they are typically quieter times. 
3. Have Your Bible and a Scripture: Choose a verse or passage to meditate on. Psalm 119:97 says, “Oh, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day.” 
4. Pray and Ask God to Speak: Start with a prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and reveal His truth to you. Psalm 119:18, “Open my eyes, that I may see Wondrous things from Your law.”, Psalm 25:4-5,”Show me Your ways, O Lord; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day.”
5. Reflect and Write: Read the scripture slowly, reflect on its meaning, and write down any insights or thoughts that come to mind. Joshua 1:8, “This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; you shall meditate on it day and night.” 
6. End with a Sigh of Relief: Take a deep breath, sigh, and thank God for His presence and guidance. Let His peace fill your heart. Philippians 4:7, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Meditating on God’s Word daily can transform your Christian life. Philippians 4:8 encourages us, “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” This practice will deepen your relationship with God, increase your knowledge of His Word, and bring peace and clarity to your life. 

Just as a moment of “Zen” can bring physical relaxation and stress relief, meditating on God’s Word brings spiritual peace and strength. Unlike the emptying practices of Zen meditation, Christian meditation fills our minds and hearts with God’s truth, helping us grow in faith and understanding. As you incorporate daily meditation into your routine, you will find that Jesus truly keeps you going, providing the strength and guidance needed for each day.