Prayerful Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
prayerful
[หprษษrfษl ]
Definition
spiritual attitude
Prayerful is an adjective used to describe a person who is inclined to pray or has a respectful attitude towards prayer. Such individuals often engage in prayer regularly, reflecting on their spirituality or seeking a connection to a higher power. The term can also imply a sense of devotion or seriousness when it comes to spiritual practices. A prayerful demeanor can be seen in both personal and communal settings, and it often suggests a sincerity in one's beliefs.
Synonyms
devout, faithful, pious, reverent, worshipful.
Examples of usage
- She has always been a prayerful person.
- His prayerful attitude brought comfort to others.
- During the service, many attendees were prayerful.
- They gathered in a prayerful spirit for the occasion.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many religions, being prayerful is seen as a way to connect with the divine, reflecting oneโs faith and inner peace.
- In Buddhist tradition, being prayerful signifies mindfulness and promotes a peaceful mindset, even when dealing with everyday challenges.
Psychology
- Studies have shown that regular prayer can enhance emotional well-being, reduce stress, and promote feelings of gratitude.
- Being prayerful might also boost one's sense of community and belonging, as it encourages connecting with others through shared beliefs.
Literature
- Many writers throughout history have explored the theme of prayerfulness, often linking it to hope and resilience in difficult times.
- Writers like Khalil Gibran and Rainer Maria Rilke reflect on the importance of being prayerful as a means to seek understanding and clarity in life.
Pop Culture
- Songs and movies often depict characters who are prayerful during pivotal moments, illustrating the theme of seeking guidance or support during challenges.
- In modern discussions, being prayerful can also encompass mindfulness practices, combining both spiritual and scientific approaches to well-being.
Origin of 'prayerful'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'prayerful' comes from the root 'pray,' which comes from the Latin word 'precari,' meaning to ask earnestly or beg.
- The term has been used in the English language since the 15th century, indicating a long history of its use in spiritual contexts.
The word 'prayerful' dates back to the late 19th century. It is derived from the root word 'prayer', which originates from the Old French word 'preiere', meaning 'request' or 'entreaty'. This, in turn, comes from the Latin 'precari', meaning 'to pray', which is linked to the action of asking earnestly or humbly for something, particularly from a divine entity. The suffix '-ful' indicates that the word describes someone or something that is full of or characterized by a certain quality, in this case, prayer. The concept of being prayerful is often associated with various religious traditions, where prayer is an integral part of worship and spiritual reflection. Over time, this term has come to embody a broader understanding of sincerity and devotion in spiritual practices.