Where Does Putting Your Hands Together to Pray Come From?

It’s a Near Universal Sign of Submission and Pleading, Common Among Asian Cultures

It is a near universal sign of submission and pleading, one that seems to resonate deeply with many cultures, including those within Asian societies. Whether kneeling, feet together, or even praying from the comfort of a bed, the act of placing your hands together to pray is a practice shared by billions across the globe. This act, whether done solo or in a circle of fellowship, demonstrates one's free agency to worship God in any manner they choose.

Praying Position Evolution

From Early Christianity to the Modern Day

The act of praying with folded hands or in any specific position can be traced back through the ages, even though its origins in early Christianity or before Christ are not clear. What is significant is that the manner in which we pray, including the position of our hands, serves to express our feelings and to humble ourselves before God. Whether kneeling, bowing, lifting hands, or holding them together, each prayer position tells a different story and has its own Biblical roots.

An Introduction to Prayer Positions: From Standing to Lying Prostrate

The Importance of Body Language in Prayer

Praying is a form of communication with God, and body language can greatly enhance this dialogue. In private or community prayers, various body postures and hand gestures can add expressiveness to our prayers. Let’s explore some of the most common prayer positions, including standing, kneeling, sitting, and lying prostrate.

Lying Prostrate

The Humility of Lying Prostrate

Lying Prostrate: Not commonly used in the weekly Mass rubrics, this position is often reserved for special rites such as the Rite of Ordination. It symbolizes human unworthiness and appeals to God’s mercy.

Kneeling

Kneeling: Reverence and Repentance

Kneeling: Used several times in the Mass, as well as in penitential contexts, this position serves as a principal gesture of reverence. It reflects humility and a willingness to submit to God's will.

Standing

Standing: Confidence in God's Love

Standing: This posture demonstrates confidence and is a reminder of God's love and the place we hold within His family. It is a powerful expression of faith.

Sitting

Sitting: Attentiveness or Contemplation

Sitting: This position is more passive but can be used to signify attentiveness or contemplation. It is a posture of quiet reflection and prayer.

Folding Your Hands

The Symbolism of Folded Hands

Two Common Positions: When we “fold” our hands, we are using one or both of two common positions with different symbolic meanings.

Interlaced Fingers: This position suggests introspection and a fervent frame of mind. Palm Together: When palms are together and fingers straight, it suggests purity and invokes an act of homage. Historically, this gesture was used in acts of homage from a vassal to his lord.

These gestures can be used in various positions: kneeling, sitting, or standing. Each has a rich history and meaning, as seen in medieval art. During the Mass or other community prayers, the priest often uses this gesture when praying on behalf of the assembly or during the Our Father. The lay community's adoption of this gesture has roots in the charismatic movement.

Conclusion

God's Presence Above Prayer Positions

In the end, remember that God hears our prayers regardless of the position of our hands or body. Posture can add to the conversation, but the heart of the prayer lies in the humble and reverent spirit with which we approach God. In community prayers such as the Mass, we in the laity have our own assigned parts to perform, each adding to the collective expression of faith.