Closing our eyes when we pray

[Guest]

Just curious, does anyone happen to know how the tradition of closing our eyes when we pray originated and how it became so commonplace?

[Guest]

Hmmmmm....interesting question. Wonder if it's google-able.....

[Guest]

I don't know the origin of the practice, but I understand that the purpose of the practice is to shut out images around us which may distract us from concerntrating on God.

However, if one is not distracted by such images, I see no reason for closing one's eyes. Indeed, sometimes, by looking at another person who is praying, we observe his body language, which may tell us much about his prayer beyond his mere words and oral emphasis.

[Guest]

i agree, paidion. fervency is definitely noted in body language.

perhaps, though, one of the reasons eyes are closed during group prayer is so people wont think you are talking to them when praying. indeed, it would be somewhat disconcerting for someone to be making eye contact with me while they are actually praying.

TK

[Guest]

I think in Luke 9 and John 20 Jesus looked up to the heavens when he prayed.
I've never seen anyone do that.

[Guest]

Yes, Rick, it is google-able! Google took me to Wikipedia - Prayer in Christianity. Although closing of the eyes during prayer is mentioned, it was brief with no historical information. Good question, though. I hope someone will provide some information. Furthermore, when did we begin folding our hands in prayer? In 1 Kings 8:22 and again in 2 Chronicles 6:12 the Bible speaks of how Solomon stood in front of the alter of the Lord and spread out his hands towards the heavens in prayer. Same as with Moses in Exodus 9:29. Pretty interesting stuff!!
~Stephanie

[Guest]

for some reason it seems that the physical behaviors associated with prayer (closing eyes, folding hands, etc) seem designed to 1) prevent distractions and 2) signal others that we are indeed praying. i dont believe there is anything biblical about this; rather the bible talks about lifting hands (as stephanie noted- welcome stephanie!) or looking toward heaven (stephen, jesus) or jerusalem (didnt daniel do this), or prostrate on the ground (the publican, jesus in gethsemane).

at my prayer group on saturday morning, some pace the floor, some are on the floor; some are sitting in a chair, some kneel, etc etc etc. most have their eyes closed, however. i must not have them closed every second, because i see all this

TK

[Guest]

Ha! TK You peeked!

I often pray while I'm walking, and it's a good idea for me to keep my eyes open so I don't walk into a tree or step off into traffic. It seems as if those are the most vivid prayer times for me; I don't get distracted at all. I guess in a group it might be better for me to close my eyes because maybe it's other people who distract me. Also, sometimes I look up at the sky, so Steve7150, now you know of one person who does that.