Pray Meaning
Pray Definition & Usage
To communicate with a deity, spirit, or higher power, often as an expression of reverence, thanks, or petition.
Examples
- "Every night before bed, she prays for her family's safety."
- "He went to the church to pray for guidance during his difficult time."
- "They prayed for the well-being of the sick friend."
- "The community gathered in the church to pray together for peace."
- "She closed her eyes, bowed her head, and began to pray silently."
To express a strong desire or hope for something to happen, often with emotional intensity.
Examples
- "I pray that you have a successful trip and return safely."
- "She prayed that the exam results would be better than expected."
- "They prayed for a miracle, hoping their missing cat would return home."
- "We all pray for good weather during the wedding day."
- "He prays every day for the success of his business venture."
To make a sincere or earnest request for something.
Examples
- "I pray you will consider my request for a few more days off."
- "She prayed that the teacher would forgive her for the late homework."
- "They prayed for a second chance to make things right."
- "The soldier prayed that his comrades would return safely."
- "He prayed to be excused from the difficult task."
Cultural Context
Prayer is a significant practice in many world religions, with each having its own traditions and beliefs surrounding it. In Christianity, prayer often involves a direct conversation with God, while in Islam, it is a ritual performed at specific times of the day. In Judaism, prayers are often written and recited in a communal setting. The word 'pray' has also transcended religious contexts, becoming a way to express deep hope or desire.
A Prayer for the Lost
Story
A Prayer for the Lost
As dusk fell over the small village, Anna sat on the edge of the river, her hands clasped together. The trees swayed gently in the evening breeze, their rustling leaves the only sound besides the distant hum of village life. She closed her eyes and whispered, 'Please, let him come back. I pray with all my heart.' Her brother, Thomas, had been missing for days, and every moment without news felt like an eternity. Earlier that afternoon, Anna had gone to the church to pray for a miracle. The priest, an elderly man with kind eyes, had gently placed his hand on her shoulder and told her to keep faith. 'Pray, Anna. God listens to all who seek His guidance.' Though she wasn’t sure what to believe, she had prayed earnestly for her brother's safe return. As night began to settle in, Anna returned to the river. She gazed at the stars above, feeling the cool night air against her skin. Her prayer for her brother had become a constant companion. 'Please, God, I pray you watch over him. I pray for his safe return.' It was a plea from the deepest part of her soul. She knew that there was little hope left, but the act of praying gave her some comfort, a feeling that she wasn’t alone. The next morning, as the sun rose over the horizon, Anna received a knock on her door. Her heart skipped a beat as she opened it. There, standing before her, was Thomas, disheveled but alive. He smiled weakly, 'I came back.' The tears in Anna's eyes were not just tears of joy but of relief. She had prayed for this moment, and it had come to pass. Later that day, as the family gathered to celebrate, Anna spoke softly to her parents, 'I prayed for him, and God answered.' Her mother nodded, wiping away tears. 'Sometimes, prayer is the only thing we have left.' As they ate together, Anna couldn't help but smile. She had prayed for her brother's return, and in the end, her fervent hope had come true. Perhaps, she thought, the act of prayer was less about the outcome and more about the comfort it brought in the midst of uncertainty.
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