In Your Light

Topic: Belief & Faith

In you is the source of life, and in your light, we see light.

Inspiring Journey of a Great Soul: Early Life, Teachings, and Death

Early Life

Niels Bohr was born on October 7, 1885, in Copenhagen, Denmark, into a family that fostered a strong academic environment. His father, Christian Bohr, was a respected physiology professor, while his mother, Ellen Adler Bohr, came from a well-educated Jewish family. This nurturing atmosphere ignited young Niels’s passion for learning, particularly in the fields of physics and mathematics. He excelled in his studies, earning his doctorate in 1911 from the University of Copenhagen, where he began to lay the groundwork for his groundbreaking contributions to quantum theory. Bohr’s early experiences and the intellectual climate of his upbringing would profoundly influence his revolutionary ideas about atomic structure and the behavior of electrons.

Teachings

Niels Bohr is best remembered for his pioneering work in quantum mechanics, particularly the Bohr model of the atom, which introduced the revolutionary concept that electrons orbit the nucleus at specific distances, or energy levels. His teaching extended beyond formal education; he was a mentor to many young physicists and championed the idea of open dialogue in scientific inquiry, famously coining the phrase “A physicist is just as good as his ability to ask the right questions.” Bohr’s philosophical insights into the interplay between classical and quantum physics have inspired countless scholars to explore the mysteries of the universe. His belief in the importance of cooperation among scientists, particularly evident in the establishment of the Niels Bohr Institute, fostered a collaborative spirit that continues to resonate in scientific communities worldwide.

Death

Niels Bohr passed away on November 18, 1962, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire generations of scientists. His contributions to the understanding of atomic theory and quantum mechanics not only transformed the field of physics but also had profound implications across various disciplines, including chemistry and philosophy. Bohr’s commitment to peace and democracy during turbulent times, particularly in the wake of World War II, underscored his belief that science should serve humanity. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded of the power of curiosity and collaboration in the pursuit of knowledge and the profound impact that one dedicated individual can have on the world. Niels Bohr’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration, inviting us all to explore the depths of our own intellectual potential.

Judaism and Christianity
The Book of Psalms

“Centering Prayer.” Centering Prayer App, Contemplative Outreach Ltd. | Silence Solitude Solidarity Service, www.contemplativeoutreach.org/category/category/centering-prayer, [David Psalm 36:9].

Theme: Belief and Faith

Centering Prayer, David, Psalm 36:9 [Short Commentary]

Centering Prayer is a Christian contemplative practice that involves sitting quietly and focusing on the breath, while gently returning attention to the breath whenever the mind wanders. It is a way of cultivating inner stillness and presence, and of opening oneself to the experience of God’s presence.

The practice of Centering Prayer is rooted in the biblical tradition, and in particular in the Psalms. Psalm 36:9, for example, speaks of the “stillness of God” and of the “peace that passes all understanding.” These verses suggest that God is present in the depths of our being, and that we can experience this presence through stillness and silence.

The quoted version of Psalm 36:9 is from the Centering Prayer app by Contemplative Outreach, an ecumenical global community of individuals and small faith communities founded by Fr. Thomas Keating [See link in Resources].

—Thomas Keating [“Centering Prayer,” Contemplative Outreach].

Centering Prayer, Psalm 36:9, Thomas Keating [Longer Commentary]

The practice of Centering Prayer was popularized by Thomas Keating, a Trappist monk and spiritual director. Keating argued that Centering Prayer is a way of “entering into the cloud of unknowing,” which is a metaphor for the mystery of God. He believed that Centering Prayer could help people to experience God’s presence in a real and personal way.

Centering Prayer is a simple practice, but it can be challenging to learn. It takes time and patience to develop the ability to focus the mind and to return to the breath when the mind wanders. However, for those who are willing to persevere, Centering Prayer can be a transformative experience.

Centering Prayer, Psalm 36:9, Richard Rohr

In the style of Richard Rohr, we might say that Centering Prayer is a way of “entering into the spaciousness of our own being.” It is a way of letting go of our attachments to thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and of opening ourselves to the experience of the divine.

Rohr often speaks of the importance of “centering down” into our own being. He believes that we are all connected to the divine, but that we often become disconnected from our true selves through our attachments to the world. Centering Prayer is a way of reconnecting with our true selves and with the divine.

Rohr also speaks of the importance of “presence.” He believes that we are all called to be present to the world, to each other, and to God. Centering Prayer can help us to develop the capacity for presence, by teaching us how to focus our attention and to be fully present in the moment.

Psalm 36:6-8

6 How precious is your steadfast love, O God!
The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.

7 They feast on the abundance of your house,
and you give them drink from the river of your delights.

8 For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light we see light.

The verses in this passage speak of God’s steadfast love, the abundance of God’s house, the fountain of life, and the light of God. These verses suggest that God is present in the depths of our being, and that we can experience this presence through stillness and silence.

The phrase “stillness of God” in Psalm 36:9 is translated from the Hebrew word שׁקט (sheket), which means “quiet,” “stillness,” or “peace.” The phrase “peace that passes all understanding” is translated from the Hebrew word שׁלום (shalom), which also means “peace,” but it has a broader meaning that includes wholeness, completeness, and well-being.

These verses suggest that God is present in the depths of our being as a stillness and peace that is beyond our understanding. This stillness and peace is not something that we can achieve through our own efforts. It is a gift from God that we can experience when we open ourselves to the divine presence.

In Your Light

Inspiring Journey of a Great Soul: Early Life, Teachings, and Death

Early Life

Teachings

Death

Resources

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