The term “contemplation” derives from the Ancient Greek words “theorein” ( to see/observe) and “theoria”(contemplation/theory). Originally referring to the public act of visiting a sanctuary or festival, the concept gradually expanded to encompass philosophical and religious meanings.
For Plato (428/7–348/7 BCE), contemplation is the event in which the human soul transitions from darkness to light and “sees” the true reality of the Forms, and this intuition serves as the basis for “recollection”.
In contrast, Aristotle (384–322 BCE) defined contemplation as a theoretical activity through which humans recognize causes and principles to attain “wisdom,” viewing it as an activity of perfected actuality that constitutes human ultimate happiness. According to him, the “contemplative life” is the highest form of life, standing in contrast to the practical life.
Philosophical counseling, which seeks wisdom beyond mere knowledge, centers on “Contemplative Philosophy”. Contemplative Philosophy is the “science of wisdom” that pursues true and eternal truth through the intuitive insight of the intellect, going beyond rational and deductive reason. This does not remain confined to mere theoretical or speculative philosophy but aligns with “philosophical practice”, inspiring and revitalizing life.
As a form of philosophical practice, philosophical counseling strives ceaselessly to advance toward the realm of truth and a greater reality by creating a “clearing” of thought in our lives through contemplative philosophy. This clearing of thought (contemplation) is a practical process that alleviates life's suffering and restores the vitality of existence by breaking free from the inertia of everyday thought and approaching reality.
Creating a clearing of thought is on a different level from simply “breaking down boundaries” to transcend limitations. Heidegger (1889–1976) defines a clearing as an open space where Being reveals itself. This is a fundamental mode of thinking that leaves space open for being to reveal its true nature. Contemplative thinking that opens a void within us does not mean reflection on reality, but rather reflection from reality and in communion with reality. If the characteristic of object-oriented thinking lies in establishing boundaries, then contemplative thinking that opens a void signifies boundaryless thinking—that is, thinking that breaks down boundaries. To put it another way, this can be described as a kind of “opening” of existence.
In fact, healing through philosophy is not possible when it remains merely at the level of speculative or theoretical thought; it becomes possible only when one enters the opening of the clearing where existence reveals itself. The experience of this clearing of thought, this opening up, is by no means easily attained; it is granted as an epiphany that arrives like a flash of lightning amidst ceaseless training in thought. This is also the very event in which the soul is healed. This opening—like a clearing that suddenly appears in a dense forest—is experienced only through a contemplative attitude that steps away from the bustle of daily life to dwell in thought. Heidegger understands this kind of thinking as a “reverent dwelling” that allows being to reveal itself.
Our thinking loses its sense of ease as it constantly compartmentalizes and defines objects. This kind of thinking, which draws boundaries, is an act of grasping and identifying with the object; it carries an element of exclusivity and ultimately leads to fatigue. In contrast, contemplation is a form of thinking that goes beyond definition to allow the object to reveal itself, dwelling in letting go and acceptance, and possesses the power to heal the soul.
