Prayer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
prayer
[หpreษชษr ]
Definitions
religious
A solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to a deity or other object of worship.
Synonyms
invocation, petition, supplication.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| prayer |
Used when talking about speaking to a deity, often as part of a religious practice.
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| supplication |
Often used in religious or earnest contexts where one is humbly or desperately asking for help or favor, implying a degree of urgency or neediness.
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| invocation |
Typically used in formal or ceremonial contexts to call upon a deity or spirit for assistance.
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| petition |
Used when requesting something formally or officially, often in a legal, governmental, or public context. Can also refer to a formal request to a deity.
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Examples of usage
- Let us offer a prayer for peace.
- She whispered a prayer before going to bed.
informal
A religious service, especially a regular one, at which people gather in order to pray together.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| prayer |
Used when an individual or group is communicating with a deity or higher power through spoken or silent words.
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| service |
Refers to organized acts of worship, such as religious ceremonies or church services, but can also mean an act of helping others.
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| devotion |
Emphasizes a deep commitment or dedication, often to a deity, spiritual practice, or religious duty. Can also be used in a secular context to show deep affection or loyalty.
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| worship |
Denotes acts of reverence and adoration towards a deity, which can include rituals, prayers, and singing. It is more formal and collective than prayer.
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Examples of usage
- The Sunday morning prayer at the church is always well attended.
- We are having a prayer for the community at the mosque tonight.
figurative
A solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to a person in authority.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| prayer |
Used in religious or spiritual settings, often when someone is talking to a higher power or deity.
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| request |
Used in everyday situations when someone is asking for something in a polite or formal way.
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| appeal |
Commonly used in legal or formal contexts when someone is asking for a change in a decision or seeking help from those in power.
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| plea |
Often used when someone is desperately asking for something, usually in a serious or emotional situation. Can also have a legal connotation where someone states their innocence or guilt.
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Examples of usage
- She wrote a prayer to the CEO asking for a raise.
- We submitted our prayers to the government for assistance.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Latin 'precarius,' meaning 'obtained by begging,' highlighting the humble approach many cultures take when praying.
- Throughout history, people from various cultures have used prayer in rituals, marking important life events like births, marriages, and deaths.
Cultural Practices
- In many cultures, prayer is often accompanied by specific gestures, such as folding hands, bowing heads, or kneeling, which symbolize respect and sincerity.
- Different religions have their own unique forms of prayerโsuch as the 'Salah' in Islam, which includes specific physical movements and recitations throughout the day.
Psychology
- Studies have shown that engaging in regular prayer can have positive psychological effects, providing comfort, reducing stress, and enhancing overall well-being.
- Prayer can also foster a sense of community and belonging, as many people pray in groups or congregations, reinforcing social bonds.
Literature
- Prayer has been a central theme in many literary works, often used to explore characters' deepest fears, hopes, and struggles.
- Famous poets, such as John Donne and Emily Dickinson, frequently incorporated prayer imagery to convey their personal reflections on faith and the human condition.
Science
- Research into the effects of prayer on healing has been conducted, with some findings suggesting that individuals who prayed or were prayed for showed improved health outcomes.
- Neuroscientists have studied brain activity during prayer, revealing it can activate areas associated with emotional regulation and feelings of connection.
Origin of 'prayer'
The word 'prayer' originated from the Old French 'preiere' and the Latin 'precari', meaning 'to ask earnestly, beg, entreat'. Throughout history, prayer has been an integral part of various religious and spiritual practices around the world. It is a form of communication with a higher power, expressing gratitude, seeking guidance, or asking for help.