Oriental meditation in general is an attempt to empty the mind, while Christian meditation fills the mind. The first looks within (to gain access to the "higher self") or seeks "mindfulness" of the around ("mother earth" or the "cosmos") while God's way is to look up in worship and submission (to know and obey God). Eastern contemplation is trance-like detachment, while Christian contemplation is attachment—to God.

The blanking of the mind to achieve "enlightenment" includes "transcendental meditation" (TM), the fad started in 1956 by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Many followers believe in the power of "collective thought"—often called the "Maharishi effect"—whereby many people merely thinking the same thing make something happen! It's essentially saying, "Who needs God or prayer when we can rely on our minds?"

Satan continues to deceive the world with promises "to make one wise"—"your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil" (Genesis 3:5-6). He claims to be "an angel of light," but in reality only blinds people so they are in spiritual darkness (2 Corinthians 11:14; 4:4).

Secular meditation is commonly recommended for therapeutic relaxation for the mind and body. This can be helpful and harmless, but usually the practitioners are naively tempted to "advance" into the more spiritual philosophies and practices. Before long they may be chanting a mantra and studying Zen mysticism. There are plenty of good ways to relax that have no connection with such Eastern religions as Buddhism, Hinduism or Taoism.

Oriental-type meditation is dangerous. First, it is involvement with false religion, which alienates us from God (see Deuteronomy 12:29-32; 18:9-14). Secondly, any attempt to empty the mind in hopes of some telepathic enlightenment is unwittingly inviting demonic influence (compare Luke 11:24-26).

The current widespread fascination with oriental religion is "nothing new under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 1:9). Speaking through Isaiah to His people who should have known better, God said, "They are full of superstitions from the East; they practice divination like the Philistines and clasp hands with pagans" (Isaiah 2:6, NIV). GN