The examen of consciousness in Ignation spirituality

Abstract

The Examen of Consciousness is studied within the context of its original setting, the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius. Reference is also made to the historical background that influenced Ignatius, together with divine inspiration, in the formulation of this examen. Formerly the examen had moralistic overtones but in the last decades, a reconsideration of the examen widened its purpose to develop into an awareness examen. Hence, it has become the prayer of the Christian who grows in the awareness of God's presence within his daily life. The exercise of the examen, as explained here, is the key to keep in touch with one's progress in the spiritual journey.