bloodshed of seventeenth century Lancashire. Regardless of these varied and diverse
situations Ambrose experienced the transforming presence of God and those initial
tastes of “delicious intimacies of spiritual communion” motivated him to turn his
mind and heart frequently toward heaven.
This prepares the way for the fourth chapter that will examine more fully the
devotional practices of meditation and contemplation that Isaac Ambrose engaged in
during his annual retreats. The historical context of both meditation and
contemplation will be studied, being particular sensitive to the influence of Bernard
upon Ambrose’s understanding of contemplation. This will be followed by a detailed
Writings of Isaac Ambrose Historical Roots of Contemplation in the
of contemplation upon the soul.