Symeon The New Theologian

In this passage from Symeon the New Theologian it had some similar points from when we where studying Buddhism.  On of the teachings was always to have a clear mind in order to reach enlightenment.  "Our mind is pure and simple.  When it is emptied of thought, it enters the pure and simple light of God,  and finds nothing but the light."  In the class presentations today someone was talking about the mandalas which we discussed was, in some form,  incorporated  in most every religion.  These are intended if i remember correctly to help clear your mind.  So this passage relates to many religions in that case.  Emptying or clearing your mind is something to strive to achieve.  A pure mind is able to reach God.