Daily Frameworks for 21 October 2023

Jalál, 06 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

When we feel moved to pray we wait quietly for a moment in order to cleanse our minds of the things of this world. While Praying, we keep our thoughts centered on God. After we have recited prayers, we remain silent for some time and do not move abruptly into another activity, The same is true when we listen to prayers offered by others in a gathering. On such occasions, we maintain a prayerful attitude and follow the words closely, as though we were the one reciting them. ¹

Question for Consideration:

Write a few words about the respectful attitude we should show when praying, whether alone or in a gathering.

Google Bard Response:

When praying, we should show a respectful attitude to God and to each other. This means:

• Cleansing our minds of the things of this world. Before we pray, we should take a few moments to quiet our minds and focus on God. This can be done by taking a few deep breaths, or by reciting a short prayer.
• Keeping our thoughts centered on God. While we are praying, we should try to avoid distractions. If our minds wander, we should gently bring them back to God.
• Remaining silent for some time after praying. After we have finished praying, we should take a few moments to reflect on the meaning of our prayer and to allow God’s words to sink into our hearts.
• Maintaining a prayerful attitude when listening to others pray. When we are in a gathering and someone else is praying, we should listen attentively and respectfully. We should also try to maintain a prayerful attitude, even if we are not the one praying.
  

In addition to these general principles, there are a few other things we can do to show respect when praying. For example, we can:

• Choose a quiet and peaceful place to pray.
• Face the direction of the Qiblih (the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh in Acre, Israel) when praying.
• Dress modestly when praying.
• Avoid speaking unnecessarily before or after praying.
  

By following these guidelines, we can show our respect for God and for the act of prayer. This will help us to have a more meaningful and fulfilling prayer experience.

It is also important to note that the most important thing is to pray with sincerity and devotion. God does not look at our outward appearance or our adherence to any particular rituals. He looks at the heart. If we pray with sincerity and devotion, He will hear our prayers.

1. Ruhi Institute. Reflections on the Life of the Spirit. 4.1.2.PE May 2020. Vol. Book 1. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Institute, 2020, 23-24. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩