by Edmund Calamy
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
This text has been initially updated from EEBO-TCP by Project Puritas (Logan West, with David Jonescue and Alex Sarrouf.) www.puritansearch.org. Further revision and editing done by Monergism. Copyright Monergism via universal text usage permission from the above.
Or, A Discourse of the Nature, Necessity, and Excellency thereof. With Motives to, and Rules for the better performance of that most Important Christian Duty. In Several Sermons on Genesis 24:63.
And Isaac went out to meditate in the fields at the even-tide.
Edmund Calamy’s The Art of Divine Meditation is a rich, practical, and deeply pastoral guide on the biblical discipline of meditation. Drawing from Genesis 24:63, where Isaac went out to meditate in the fields, Calamy presents a compelling case for why meditation is an essential duty for every believer. He divides meditation into two types—solemn and deliberate meditation, where the believer sets aside time to dwell deeply on divine truths, and occasional meditation, where one takes advantage of everyday experiences to reflect upon God’s wisdom and providence. Through a series of sermons, he outlines the necessity, excellence, and benefits of meditation, demonstrating how this discipline not only strengthens one’s knowledge of God but also kindles greater love, humility, and devotion. The book serves as both an encouragement and a challenge, urging Christians to move beyond shallow contemplation to a life-transforming engagement with the truths of Scripture.
What makes this work especially compelling is Calamy’s practical approach, providing clear rules and directions for implementing meditation effectively. He highlights six properties of divine meditation and warns against neglecting it, showing how a lack of meditation leads to spiritual barrenness, weak faith, and susceptibility to sin. The Puritan emphasis on experiential Christianity is evident throughout, as Calamy continually points the reader to the sweetness of meditating on Christ, the importance of self-examination, and the role of meditation in preparing for the Lord’s Supper. His writing is filled with pastoral warmth and practical wisdom, making this book an invaluable resource for those seeking a deeper communion with God. Whether one is new to the discipline or has long practiced it, The Art of Divine Meditation will undoubtedly stir the heart and sharpen the mind in the pursuit of godliness.
About the Author
Edmund Calamy (1600–1666) was a Puritan preacher and theologian, known for his firm Reformed convictions and unwavering commitment to biblical truth. He ministered at Aldermanbury, London, and played a significant role among the Nonconformists who opposed the compromises of the Church of England. Calamy was a powerful preacher and prolific writer, best known for works such as The Godly Man’s Ark, which provided spiritual comfort to believers amid persecution. His pastoral heart and theological depth continue to edify and challenge readers today, making his writings essential for those seeking a biblically rich, Christ-centered spirituality.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
To the Christian Readers
Introduction - GEN. XXIV. 63
Two Sorts of Divine Meditation
Solemn and Deliberate Meditation
The Duty of Meditation
The Benefits of Meditation
Application of Meditation
Exhorations to Ministers
Six Particulars about this Doctrine of Meditation
Twelve Meditations During Sacramental-time
Six Properties of Divine Meditation
The Companions of Meditation
Two Cautions
The Materials of Meditation
Rules and Directions For the Better Practicing of Divine Meditation
The Life and Soul of Meditation
Rules for the Conclusion of All