For Cats only (maybe orthos):
Has anyone read the Cloud of Unknowing, and applies it? Anyone who regularly practices contemplative prayer?
I've skimmed through most of the book, and it seems to be basically explaining why having nothing in your head is a good way to approach God, but not too much about the practice. My practice is simply just to focus on my breathing, and discard any thoughts that come to mind.
This is pretty similar to many other meditative techniques, especially in eastern religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism. We also have other similarities such as using prayer beads to recite prayers, which can also help people to get into a meditative state (although probably not as strong as without using vocal prayer, which the Cloud of Unknowing does mention as well).
My question is - since there are many who also pursue "meditation" (contemplation for us, as meditation for us is active thoughts on sacred mysteries or scripture), without faith in the true God Christ, and they do achieve some benefits such as better concentration, relaxation, etc, and some also who pursue it more, get lead on a path of false conclusions - their practice seems to reaffirm their Dharmic/Karmic worldviews that they somewhat set out with before they start to practice it.
My question is, what is really the difference between the Christian practice and the Eastern Dharmic practice as such, other than going in with different ideas of what we are looking for. Also, if the Christian takes this practice and is reaffirmed that Christ is truth, but the Hindu or Buddhist does the same and it reaffirms their previous held beliefs, it seems a bit suspicious.
I would expect that the Dharmic paths would not lead to anywhere as much as people seeking for God "through the front gate" with Christ. But again it seems like the practice itself is similar, just the subtle mindset that you have before going into the practice.
The cloud of unknowing doesn't seem to talk about watching your breath, which is something I have heard from Dharmic practices, although it is not a super unique thing - but it does seem like one of the more simpler ways to keep the "Cloud of Unknowing", by focusing your mind on something and not allowing yourself to have conscious thoughts about other matters.