A prayer is a spoken or silent message to a god or higher power, often asking for help, giving thanks, or expressing feelings. It can also mean the act or habit of praying.
“Prayer” comes from Old French *preiere*, from Latin *precaria*, from *precari*, “to ask, beg, entreat.” It originally meant an earnest request, not always religious.
Even outside religion, people say things like “You don’t have a prayer,” keeping the word’s older sense of a desperate hope. Prayer blends language and emotion in a way that many cultures see as a bridge between human and divine.
The word itself is not gendered, but many religious traditions historically restricted women’s formal roles in leading prayer or public worship. Language around prayer has often defaulted to male imagery and leadership, even where women’s devotional practices were central.
When discussing prayer, avoid assuming that religious authority or spiritual expertise is male; include examples that recognize women and gender-diverse people as participants and leaders where appropriate. Be sensitive to diverse practices across traditions rather than centering a single, male-led model.
Acknowledge the significant role of women in sustaining religious communities, organizing prayer groups, and contributing to theological reflection, even when they were excluded from formal titles or institutions.
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