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With Open Hands
For over thirty-four years With Open Hands, Henri J.M. Nouwen's first book on prayer, has gently encouraged readers to an open, trusting stance toward God and offered insight to the components of prayer: silence, acceptance, hope, compassion, and prophetic criticism. Updated with a moving foreword by Sue Monk Kidd.
Paperback, 125 pages
Published
April 1st 2006
by Ave Maria Press
(first published November 1980)
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This is a remarkably unpretentious view of prayer that (for me) transforms my thinking about prayer from an accepted tradition based in spiritual hocus pocus to a thoughtful and natural aspect of life. The last chapter on "Prayer and critique" is worth a whole book on its own.
Here's a quotation from that chapter:
In the end the life of prayer is a life with open hands -- a life where we are not ashamed of our weaknesses but realize that it is more prefer us to be led by the Other than to try to...more
Here's a quotation from that chapter:
In the end the life of prayer is a life with open hands -- a life where we are not ashamed of our weaknesses but realize that it is more prefer us to be led by the Other than to try to...more
May 15, 2012
Victoria Wheeler
rated it
5 of 5 stars
·
review of another edition
Shelves:
christianity
I immediately read this book twice in a row while I was on retreat. I loved it. It has many very helpful, accessible ideas on what prayer is and how it functions. It certainly was one of those magical books that appeared and explained things at the exact moment I needed them to be explained. Also, it is pretty short, so one could easily quickly read it, although I believe it very much urges reflection.
I have just recently discovered author Henry J. M. Nouwen when reading Return of the Prodigal Son. I am mesmerized by the depth of his understanding and his ability to connect with such simplicity on such a challenging topic. There were parts of the book that really reached out to me and made me say a resounding "YES". I plan on rereading it again.
This contains some really helpful reflections on prayer. I had a bit of trouble with his view on dreams (page 41) as well as a few other minor points. But, as usual, I always appreciate reading Nouwen and I am very thankful for the loving contributions that he left for Christians to read and be nourished by.
My life would be significantly diminished without the continued influence of Henri Nouwen. While this is not my favorite of his books (that would be In The Name of Jesus), it's definitely shaped my understanding and practice of prayer.
Henri Nouwen writes of the power of prayer and opening one's heart and hands to the possibilities God has in store for us. I read it with a red pencil in hand, marking many passages to refer to again and again.
I found this book difficult to read. I usually fall in love with Nouwen's books. I don't know if it is the format or what. I will keep it on my shelf and see if a second reading is worth it.
one of my iconic books on living prayer. Praying and living with open hands is my meditative hope and desire. It is a short, approachable book with life changing meat. Much loved.
I read this in the 80's and until 2 years ago I had the copy of the book. It is one of my favorite books on prayer.
Of course I give it five stars: it's Henri Nouwen. It's a quick read, but a deep read, and therefore a must re-read.
This is a meditative work that is not comfortably read in few sittings. A rhythm of reading and meditation is most effective, giving one a chance to think about the principles presented.
Readers should be prepared for the layout, text and presentation to pull one into a quiet, contemplative state. I found this book challenging and insightful, but after having read it years ago, I confess I cannot recall what the challenges and insights were. While my initial impression of the experience was to g...more
Readers should be prepared for the layout, text and presentation to pull one into a quiet, contemplative state. I found this book challenging and insightful, but after having read it years ago, I confess I cannot recall what the challenges and insights were. While my initial impression of the experience was to g...more
My first introduction to Nouwen. Probably 1978. Bought the book at the "Potter's House" in DC.
One of my alltime favorite spiritual authors, and my favorite book of his.
a true classic on prayer. Not a how to, but a can do...
thought provoking. more in depth look at prayer
I love Henri Nouwen's writing. It's poetic yet simple to read. This is a great little book about opening yourself up to prayer.
Profound thoughts on prayer
Truly an inspiring message concerning prayer, even beyond the boundaries of Christian theology. Nouwen's writing transcends even the most basic doctrinal teachings without negating any of them. In other words, believers will find little to disagree with and non-believers will most likely feel the same. Highly encouraging and highly recommended.
a simple book about prayer. easy to read.
What can I say about this marvelous book, now older but never dated. I'm a fan of Nouwen and will read this book at least three times before I put in on the shelf. It is a prayer for frequent consultation.
Wow - a Nouwen book I hadn't read? Beautiful... it's about prayer. Starts with an image of clenched fist and what we hold on to, and moves into prayers of acceptance, silence, hope, compassion.
Beautiful.
Beautiful.
Nouwen poetically presents the difficulties people have with trust and vulnerability in this sweet, sweet, understanding essay. Highly recommended for anybody going through emotional pain.
Try to find the early edition of this wonderful book by a beautiful soul, Henri Nouwen. The black and white photographs are an integral part of this work. My spirit was deeply moved....
I really enjoy these little easy reads that are packed with wisdom. This one really speaks to us about being open to God's will in our lives.
The older addition with the 60s bw photos is really tripped out.
The text of any addition is great.
I have the older addition.
The text of any addition is great.
I have the older addition.
This is a beautiful short book all about prayer. The thoughts shared about praying are inspiring.
The hospitality section was good...don't understand the rest.
Brings new perspective of looking at the meaning on prayer.
It's about prayer and surrender
Henri is awesome
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Henri Jozef Machiel Nouwen (Nouen), (1932–1996) was a Dutch-born Catholic priest and writer who authored 40 books on the spiritual life.
Nouwen's books are widely read today by Protestants and Catholics alike. The Wounded Healer, In the Name of Jesus, Clowning in Rome, The Life of the Beloved, and The Way of the Heart are just a few of the more widely recognized titles. After nearly two decades of...more
More about Henri J.M. Nouwen...
Nouwen's books are widely read today by Protestants and Catholics alike. The Wounded Healer, In the Name of Jesus, Clowning in Rome, The Life of the Beloved, and The Way of the Heart are just a few of the more widely recognized titles. After nearly two decades of...more
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May 15, 2012 06:18pm