The Experiment with Light meditation was first formulated by theologian Rex Ambler and is based on his scholarly gleaning of early Quaker writings. What he discovered is that, though not explicitly stated in their writing, the Quakers of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries had a systematic way of ‘waiting in the Light’ for spiritual communion. During this ‘waiting worship’ they had transformative experiences that first showed them the truth of their personal lives and how to improve them. Some individuals may then receive guidance on what their ministry to the world may be. What we know from both historical and contemporary practice is that each individual’s experience is unique, though there may be common themes within the community or even worldwide.
This mediation has four stages plus prompts to begin and end the meditation. MOWS is the acronym that is used, and the four stages are:
- Mind the Light-be still and wait for things in your life to rise to awareness.
- Open to the Light—when things arise remain aware of them. The main one will become evident.
- Wait in the Light—let the Light show you the truth of the situation without judgement.
- Submit—accept what has been revealed to you.
A wonderful thing about this meditation is that each person interprets for themselves just what ‘the Light’ is for them. The Experiment has proven effective across a wide spectrum of religious and spiritual beliefs.
Each step has its purpose, and we will look at these one-by-one in subsequent posts. Daniel+
Definitions
Quaker(s)-A member of the Religious Society of Friends, also referred to as Friend(s).
Light-A term used to refer to the Divine, Self, or Mystery.
Waiting worship-A form of religious service where the gathered group sit in prayerful silence waiting for the Spirit to offer a message to them. This message may be either for the individual’s benefit or it may be a message to be shared with those in attendance.
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