Which term refers to the ancient practice of reading Scripture slowly as a form of prayer?

• A. Divine Reading
• B. Scriptural Meditation
• C. Prayerful Reading
• D. Lectio Divina

Answer: (D)

Lectio Divina is the term for the ancient practice of reading Scripture slowly as a form of prayer. It invites you to encounter God through the text by taking time with a passage, listening for its voice in the moment, and letting what you read lead into prayer and contemplation. Traditionally it unfolds through four movements: reading the passage (lectio), reflecting on its meaning and what God might be saying to you (meditatio), praying about what you’ve heard (oratio), and resting in God’s presence as the text sinks into your heart (contemplatio). Some guides add a practical follow-up action to live out what’s been discerned (operatio). While phrases like Divine Reading, Scriptural Meditation, or Prayerful Reading describe aspects of the practice, Lectio Divina is the established name for this deliberate, prayer-centered way of engaging Scripture.