… Contemplation allows inferences and general principles to formulate spontaneously because it facilitates discernment of essence rather than the specifics of linear logic. A benefit of contemplative comprehension is revelation of meaning and significance.
Whereas meditation generally involves removal from the world and its activities, contemplation is a simple style of relating to both inner and outer experiences of life, which permits participation but in a detached manner. Intentional doingness is focused on result, whereas contemplation is related to effortless unfolding. One could say purposeful thinking is quite ‘yang’ in character, whereas contemplation is very ‘yin’. It facilitates the surrender and letting go of attractions, aversions, and all forms of wantingness or neediness.
… Whereas the goal of the ego/mind is primarily to do, act, acquire, or perform, the intention of contemplation is to ‘become’. … Devotional contemplation is a way or style of being in the world whereby one’s life becomes a prayer.
… replacing instinct-based emotionality with spiritually based comprehension.
From Reality, Spirituality and Modern Man, p. 291-293