Teresa of Avila's 7 Stages of Prayer

 SEVEN STAGES OF PRAYER 

ACCORDING TO ST. TERESA OF AVILA

The Walking Catholic Facebook Group 

Teresa of Avila, a prominent Spanish Carmelite mystic and Doctor of the Church, described various types or stages of prayer in her work "The Interior Castle." She outlined seven stages or mansions of the soul, each representing a different level of prayer and union with God. 

These stages are:

1. MENTAL PRAYER :

This initial stage involves using our thoughts and imagination to engage in conversation with God. It includes meditation on Scripture, reflection on the life of Christ, and the use of devotional prayers. Mental prayer helps to cultivate a deeper awareness of God's presence and a personal relationship with Him.

2. PRAYER OF QUIET :

In this stage, the soul experiences a deeper sense of peace and stillness in the presence of God. It is characterized by a quieting of the senses and a greater receptivity to God's presence. The soul is drawn inward and begins to experience a more profound union with God.

3. PRAYER OF UNION :

At this stage, the soul experiences a more intimate and profound union with God. The individual becomes more passive, allowing God to work within them. The soul is completely absorbed in God's presence and experiences a sense of ecstasy and divine union.

4. PRAYER OF ECSTASY :

In this stage, the soul experiences moments of intense union with God, often accompanied by mystical phenomena. The individual may be temporarily transported outside of themselves and immersed in the divine presence. These experiences are transient and leave a lasting impact on the soul.

5. PRAYER OF QUIETUDE :

This stage involves a deeper level of stillness and surrender to God's presence. The soul experiences a profound peace and rest in God, detached from external distractions and desires. It is a state of deep contemplation and union with God's will.

6. PRAYER OF UNION :

In this stage, the soul experiences a complete absorption and transformation in God's love. The individual is united with God's will and desires nothing apart from Him. It is a state of profound intimacy and conformity to God's divine plan.

7. PRAYER OF TRANSFORMING UNION :

This final stage represents the highest level of prayer and union with God. The soul is completely transformed and united with God's love. The individual's will is fully aligned with God's will, and they become an instrument of His divine love in the world.

It is important to note that these stages are not necessarily linear or sequential, and individuals may experience different levels of prayer at different times. Teresa of Avila's teachings on prayer provide insights into the progressive journey of the soul towards deeper union with God. Her descriptions of the various stages of prayer offer guidance and understanding for individuals seeking to deepen their prayer life and cultivate a closer relationship with God. Teresa's teachings emphasize the importance of surrender, stillness, and receptivity to God's presence, as well as the transformative power of divine union.

By outlining the different stages of prayer, Teresa of Avila invites individuals to recognize and embrace the diverse ways in which God communicates and draws souls closer to Himself. Her teachings highlight the dynamic nature of prayer, acknowledging that it is a journey that unfolds over time and requires openness to the workings of the Holy Spirit.

Furthermore, Teresa's teachings emphasize the transformative power of prayer, as the soul progresses from more active forms of prayer to deeper levels of contemplation and union with God. She encourages individuals to surrender their own desires and allow God to work within them, leading to a profound transformation of the soul and conformity to God's will.

Overall, Teresa of Avila's teachings on prayer provide insights into the progressive nature of the spiritual journey, the importance of surrender and receptivity, and the transformative power of divine union. 

Her writings continue to inspire and guide individuals in their pursuit of a deeper prayer life and union with God.