"O You who hear prayer, To You all flesh will come"
(Psalm 65: 2 nkjv)
Prayer is an essential practice in religion. I don't know of any religion that does not promote prayer. We could probably add "fasting" to our original list of religion's essentials, even though fasting is not an essential in all religions, though it may be part of it. After all, fasting and prayer often are connected in scripture. So too is meditation, and we might should say something about that as well in conjunction with prayer. So, what is the Christian view of prayer and how does it differ from other religions?
Christian prayer distinguishes itself chiefly by being Trinitarian and focused on Christ. Christians pray to God the Father, through Christ and his mediation, and by the aid of the Holy Spirit. So wrote the apostle Paul, saying - "For through him (Christ) we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father." (Eph. 2: 18 kjv) Notice the three prepositions in the above Trinitarian prayer. That does not mean that we don't pray to the Lord Jesus Christ, but we pray to him as a mediator, intercessor, and high priest who presents our prayers and petitions to the Father. Jesus said "no man comes to the Father but by me" and says "I am the way." (John 14: 6)
Christians pray to God alone because they recognize that there is only one God, nor do they pray to any other deity or creature. Catholics, however, though Christian in profession, do pray to Mary, the mother of the man Christ Jesus, and pray to the apostles and saints who are in heaven. But, there is not a single example of this in the bible. No one is to pray to the dead or attempt to communicate with the dead. This is called necromancy and is condemned by God in the old testament. (See Deut. 18: 10-12; Lev. 20: 27) This divine prohibition not only forbids all seances, mediums, and channelers, but other similar things like being baptized for the dead, or proxy baptisms (as in the Mormon religion).
Many of the world's religions have accessories associated with prayer, and rituals of prayer. This would include prayer beads, prayer wheels, prayer bells, prayer cloths and veils, prayer rugs, prayer shawls, and prayer rituals. Some have designated times in the day for prayer and require bodily positions for prayer. They also have differences of belief regarding the purpose of prayer. In nearly all of these things the Christian lacks these things in his prayer life, they having no foundation in scripture.
Prayer Beads
"Prayer beads serve as a tool to aid in focusing during prayer and meditation, primarily by providing a physical way to count repetitions of prayers, mantras, or other sacred phrases. They are used across various religious and spiritual practices to help with concentration, mindfulness, and maintaining a meditative state...This can be particularly helpful for practices that involve repetition, such as the rosary in Catholicism or the japa mala in Hinduism." (AI)
"Prayer beads are used across a wide range of religious traditions, including Christianity (Catholicism and Protestantism), Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Islam, and others. The specific type and use of prayer beads can vary depending on the tradition, but the general purpose remains the same: to aid in prayer and meditation." (AI)
We will have some things to say about repetition in prayer shortly. No holy man in scripture prayed with prayer beads. This is not needed. What is needed is praying "in the Spirit." The Spirit of God is sufficient to keep a person focused in prayer. Notice these verses that speak of praying by the Spirit:
"Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints." (Eph. 6: 18 kjv)
"But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God." (Jude 1: 20 kjv)
"What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also." (I Cor. 14: 15 kjv)
When a believer is praying in the Spirit he does not need prayer beads, prayer bells, or any other such thing. When engaged in such praying there will be no wandering of the mind. Further, it is in such prayers that one hears the voice of God telepathically. That is because the mind of the believer is connected to the mind of God.
Prayer beads are also not needed by Christians because they understand that repetition of the same words over and over avails nothing. Said the Lord Jesus: "But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking." (Matt. 6: 7 kjv)
By "as the heathen do" is meant the religious Gentiles who were all polytheists. We see this kind of thinking in those religions. We see it reflected in Catholicism where "penance" may involve saying a "hail Mary" prayer or some other mantra so many times in order to obtain forgiveness. A way to keep count, as through beads, would be beneficial in such cases. To think that saying the same prayer over and over again so as to merit the divine favor is not in keeping with the tenor and spirit of the new testament. It is more akin to magic and superstition and to heathen religions.
Prayer Wheels
"Prayer wheels in Tibetan Buddhism are used as a tool for spiritual practice, specifically to accumulate merit, purify negative karma, and cultivate compassion. By spinning the wheel, devotees are said to achieve the same benefits as reciting the mantras or prayers inscribed within." (AI)
This reminds me of the days when I was in elementary school and was being punished by a teacher by having to write a sentence a hundred or more times! Many times instead of writing out the words "I will not talk when the teacher is speaking" (or something similar) on each line I would write the first letter in the sentence on each line on the paper and then do the same with the second letter until finished. I can see where having to pray the same lines over and over for a hundred times (in order to atone for my wrong) will force one to simply do something similar, such as saying the prayers as fast as an auctioneer. Said AI Overview:
"Prayer wheels allow the faithful Buddhist to multiply the number of prayers expressed by millions. This is because prayer wheels are filled with copies of mantras (sacred spells associated with particular deities)."
That is what I am talking about. Saying the same prayer over and over again would be monotonous and a way to cheat or find a short cut, as did the Buddhists, would be most desired. Just spin the prayer wheel and have a hundred "hail Mary's"!
One song often sung by Christians is the song "Just A Little Talk With Jesus" has these lines:
"have a little talk with Jesus
(Let us) tell Him all about our troubles
(He will) hear our faintest cry
(And He will) answer by and by
(And now when you) feel a little prayer wheel turnin'
(Lord, you know) know a little fire is burnin'
(You will) find a little talk with Jesus makes it right"
This is a mixture of Buddhist practice with Christian.
Prayer Bells
Churches, like the Mosques of Islam, often use bells to call the faithful to prayer. But, some religions use them as an aid to prayer itself.
"In Buddhist practice, prayer bells, especially Tibetan hand bells, are used to enhance meditation, prayer, and rituals. They are believed to purify negative energy, cleanse the aura, and induce a calming atmosphere for meditation. The sound of the bell is often considered to be similar to the "ohm" vibration, which is also associated with meditation and spiritual practices." (AI)
Christians do not need bells to help them pray. They would in fact often be a distraction. Prayers are not more effectual because of bells, candles, or any other such thing.
Prayer Cloths. Veils & Shawls
"Prayer cloths are pieces of fabric, often handkerchiefs or shawls, used by some Christians as a tangible object to focus on during prayer and as a symbol of faith in God's healing and sustaining power...They may have Bible verses or prayers printed on them or be plain like a handkerchief. Various Protestant churches (usually Pentecostals) use prayer clothes either as a token to show the giver is praying for the sick recipient or as a direct means to pass on healing." (AI)
Again, though some Christians have prayer cloths they are not scriptural. To pray in the Spirit and in the ears of the Father and his Son the mediator requires no prayer beads, prayer wheels, nor prayer cloths. It really is superstitious and what one would expect to find in heathen pagan religions. Having such adds nothing to the efficacy of prayer. What is most important is praying in the Spirit, praying according to the word and will of God, praying fervently and sincerely, praying with a thankful heart, praying with reverence and godly fear and trembling, and praying in humility.
"Prayer cloths first became popular in America thanks to Joseph Smith, founder of the Church of Latter-Day Saints (also known as Mormonism)...most Mormons dropped the practice, concerned that it became a folk magic ritual. Around the time that Mormons stopped promoting prayer cloths, Pentecostals and holiness evangelists began using them." (Christianity.com - See here)
Again, prayer cloths are not biblical and certainly add nothing to prayer.
Christian women are commanded to pray with their heads covered and Christian men are to pray with their heads uncovered. (I Cor. 11: 2-16) But, this is not restricted to prayer. It is also applicable to the entire worship service. It is also not applicable to private prayer however. A Christian woman may go into her closet to pray to God without a head covering. She may pray with her family without it. Likewise Christian men should pray and worship in the assembly without a hat, turban, hood, etc. Again, that does not mean that he cannot pray in private with his hat on. If he is riding in his car with his hat on, he may pray to God with it on. A woman's veil is not an accessory to prayer, but serves another purpose. By wearing the veil in public worship the woman expresses her faith in the divine order respecting men and women.
What about prayer clothes, like the prayer shawl? Crosswalk says (See here):
"A prayer shawl, also called a tallit, is a special garment worn by Jewish men. The garment signifies the nobility that comes from being God’s chosen people. The tallit is a sign of obedience to God’s law. Jewish women are not required to wear them, but some do during prayer time. Jewish children are often given the tallit at their bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah. Some Christians today use a prayer shawl during their prayer time."
In response we say the same thing that Paul said to those who thought one's relationship with God was dependent on what food he ate. Said the apostle: "But food does not commend us to God; for neither if we eat are we the better, nor if we do not eat are we the worse." (I Cor. 8: 8 nkjv) Likewise we say that prayer does not become more effectual or holy or pleasing to God because of a prayer shawl, beads, wheels, etc.
Prayer Rugs
In many religions, such as in Islam, prayer rugs are an essential item in prayer.
"Prayer rugs, also known as prayer mats, are used in Islam and some Jewish traditions for various reasons, including maintaining cleanliness, providing a designated space for prayer, and enhancing spiritual connection. They help ensure a clean surface for prayer, symbolizing a sacred space and fostering humility during worship. Additionally, prayer rugs often incorporate symbolic elements like the mihrab (a niche indicating the direction of Mecca) and other religious motifs." (AI Overview)
"Here's a more detailed look at the reasons for using prayer rugs (AI):
1. Cleanliness and Purity:
In Islam, maintaining cleanliness is crucial during prayer, as Muslims are required to perform ablution (wudu) before worship. Prayer rugs provide a clean surface, protecting clothing and the worshiper from dirt or impurities on the ground.
This aligns with the Islamic principle of ensuring purity in all aspects of worship.
2. Designated Sacred Space:
Prayer rugs help define a specific area for prayer, setting it apart from everyday activities.
They create a sense of sacredness and focus, enhancing the spiritual experience of prayer.
3. Enhanced Spiritual Connection:
The act of laying out the rug and positioning oneself towards Mecca (the direction of the Kaaba) can be a powerful reminder of the divine presence.
The rug can serve as a symbolic gateway to the holy city, fostering a deeper connection with God.
4. Cultural and Artistic Significance:
Prayer rugs often reflect the artistic styles and design elements of specific regions, contributing to the rich cultural heritage of Islam.
They can also be seen as beautiful works of art, expressing faith and creativity.
5. Symbolic Elements:
The mihrab, a prominent feature in many prayer rugs, is a visual representation of the prayer niche in mosques and indicates the direction of Mecca.
Other symbols, like lamps, trees, and flowers, can also be incorporated, carrying symbolic meaning related to God's presence and paradise.
6. Jewish Tradition:
In Jewish traditions, prayer rugs are used to provide a clean and sacred space for prayer, particularly during prostration or when synagogues lack benches.
They can also help to enhance the sense of humility and connection with tradition during prayer."
The reasons for the prayer rug are not valid for the Christian. We never read where Christ and his apostles used or promoted using a prayer mat. A Christian can pray even when he is dirty! Job prayed while in sackcloth and ashes. Jesus prayed while in the Garden of Gethsemane and on the cross and he certainly was not physically clean at those times. As we have seen, a believer's heart is a sanctuary and can pray in that sanctuary any time. He may be in war, in a filthy trench, but he can still pray effectually in such a state. This is what makes the Christian religion superior in regard to prayer.
Prayer Rituals & Body Positions
"Body position in prayer varies across religions but often involves kneeling, prostration, sitting, or standing, with hand positions also playing a role. While some religions prescribe specific postures, others, like Christianity, offer a range of acceptable positions." (AI)
Body position in prayer is often seen as a way to express humility, reverence, and focus, according to some religious scholars.
According to Islamic tradition, prostration, where the forehead touches the ground, is a crucial part of Islamic prayer (Salat) and is considered the closest position to God.
According to Jewish tradition, standing is the traditional posture for prayer, especially during the Eighteen Blessings (Amidah), which involves movement and bowing. Videos of Jewish men praying at the wailing wall in Jerusalem show men with their prayer caps and rocking forwards and backwards. We also see them writing their prayer requests on pieces of paper and putting them into the seams between the stones (similar to Buddhists putting such pieces of paper in their prayer wheels).
Sitting with crossed legs (lotus position) is common during prayer and meditation in Hinduism and Buddhism.
Christians pray in all sorts of bodily positions, not thinking that any one position makes prayer more holy or effectual. If he "prays without ceasing" (I Thess. 5: 17), then he will pray sometimes standing, sometimes sitting, sometimes on knees, sometimes while lying in bed, etc. Though Christians often pray with their eyes closed, yet even this is viewed as optional. Jesus prayed with his eyes open towards heaven. (John 11: 41; 17: 1; Luke 9: 16) Many Christians like the Jews of old sometimes pray with uplifted hands, but again this is optional. (Psa. 28: 2; I Tim. 2:8) It is a way to mix praise with prayer.
Fasting & Meditation
Prayer in many religions is often mixed with fasting. (Matt. 6: 16-18; 17: 21; Acts 13: 2-3; 14: 23; I Cor. 7: 5) Though there were fasts commanded in the old testament, there are none in the new. Fasting was practiced in the new testament but it was not obligatory. Christians should keep in mind the words of the Lord to Isaiah which are as follows:
“3 'Why have we fasted,' they say, 'and You have not seen? Why have we afflicted our souls, and You take no notice?' "In fact, in the day of your fast you find pleasure, And exploit all your laborers. 4 Indeed you fast for strife and debate, And to strike with the fist of wickedness. You will not fast as you do this day, To make your voice heard on high. 5 Is it a fast that I have chosen, A day for a man to afflict his soul? Is it to bow down his head like a bulrush, And to spread out sackcloth and ashes? Would you call this a fast, And an acceptable day to the Lord? 6 "Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke? 7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh?" (Isa. 58: 6 kjv)
All religions have some form of meditation. In the psalms of the bible we see where meditation and prayer were often joined together. Oftentimes it is while musing upon scripture, and the providence of God, a Christian will be moved to pray. This often occurs in a circular manner. Meditate awhile, then pray, then meditate, then pray, etc.
"Combining prayer and meditation can offer a richer spiritual experience. Prayer, a form of communication with God, can be enhanced by meditation, which helps quiet the mind and cultivate a deeper sense of presence and connection. By first engaging in meditation to still the mind and then turning to prayer, individuals can experience a more focused and profound connection with the divine." (AI)
Not only is meditation often joined with prayer, but so too is praise and thanksgiving. We also see this in the psalms. Utterances of praise are often intermingled with supplications, intercessions, and making requests of the Lord.
In summation we say that Christian prayer is superior because prayer is made to the one true and living God, to the Father of all, and is made through the mediation of Christ as High Priest, and is made by the power and assistance of the Spirit of God. It is also able to be made at any time and any place because the believer in Jesus is a living temple.