Ignatian contemplation is a form of imaginative prayer that uses the senses and imagination to "place" oneself within a Gospel scene, allowing the believer to see, hear, and feel the events as if they were happening in the present. Unlike other forms of prayer that rely on abstract thought or vocal formulas, this method engages the mind and heart to stir up emotions and foster a deep, personal conversation with Jesus "as one friend speaks to another."

The practice typically follows a structured approach where the prayerer first "composes the place" by visualizing the setting with vivid sensory details—such as the sights, sounds, smells, and temperatures of the scene. The prayerer then observes the characters, such as Mary or Jesus, and may insert themselves into the story to interact with them or witness the events from a specific perspective. This technique is most often applied to narratives from the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus found in the Gospels, though it can also be used for other mysteries like the Incarnation or the Trinity.

Key aspects of the method include:

• Sensory Engagement: Actively using all five senses to make the biblical text "present" and relevant, transforming historical events into a living experience.

• Spiritual Conversation: Moving beyond mere reflection to a heartfelt dialogue with God or biblical figures, asking questions and listening for insights.

• Emotional Response: Allowing the imagination to stir emotions, desires, and insights that reveal how God is speaking directly to the individual.

• Scriptural Basis: While Ignatius primarily focused on Gospel episodes, he also created imaginative prayers for non-scriptural mysteries like the Incarnation and the Love of God.