Written by John Immel, Prayer with hands and heart open is a common posture in many yoga classes. This position communicates open-mindedness and a willingness to receive all that is in reality. At first glance, prayer with open hands appears good because open-mindedness recognizes the goodness in all things, as everything created by God is good. It is holy to acknowledge this goodness. However, it is important to note that while God created everything, God is not responsible for every act. For example, God does not will voluntary harmful acts (sins), which are committed by people and spiritual entities. While people and spiritual entities were made good, choices can corrupt this goodness. The error of open-mindedness is that it remains open to harmful acts and corruption within beings. While it may be good and necessary for a person to be more open-minded in some circumstances, absolute open-mindedness makes one receptive to penetration by both evil (harmful) and good (beneficial) things. Instead of a prayer posture that communicates open-mindedness or close-mindedness, one needs to be discerning. Discernment strikes a balance between receptivity and boundaries. It expresses a healthy amount of uncertainty and a willingness to consider and contemplate the goodness of a thing. But also maintains clear boundaries to prevent the penetration of harm of evil. Ultimately, discernment is open to what is good and beneficial only. In some traditions, the prayer position with hands open in a circular mudra symbolizes one's belief that reality goes around and around in a wheel - that reality is a never-changing circle. This circular knot in the hands suggests that reality is ultimately static, unmoving, and directionless. This posture establishes boundaries against the passions and matter. It is receptive to transcendent awareness, only. This posture is somewhat opposite to the posture of the open hands because it denies the goodness of physical reality. It expresses the goodness of detachment from physical reality. As with open-mindedness, some individuals need to be more detached in particular circumstances. But absolute transcendence denies the meaning of existence. A third posture, prayer with hands at the heart, with the tips of the fingers pointing towards heaven, signifies receiving holiness into the heart and all that is good from heaven. This position connects the heart with heaven. It pulls heaven down to earth, and lifts the heart to heaven. It is not open to everything, but only to what is good. The hands pointed like an arrow towards heaven establishes a clear direction and focus towards the good. In conclusion, prayer positions are an important aspect of spiritual expression, and they reflect our attitude towards God, the world, and ourselves. By choosing the right prayer position, we can connect with the divine and receive His blessings, guidance, and comfort. READ MORE ON THIS TOPIC
BROWSE SIMILAR ARTICLES BY TOPICMy Saved Articles | Most Popular About the Author John Immel, the founder of Joyful Belly, teaches people how to have a healthy diet and lifestyle with Ayurveda biocharacteristics. His approach to Ayurveda is clinical, yet exudes an ease which many find enjoyable and insightful. John also directs Joyful Belly's School of Ayurveda, offering professional clinical training in Ayurveda for over 15 years.John's interest in Ayurveda and specialization in digestive tract pathology was inspired by a complex digestive disorder acquired from years of international travel, as well as public service work in South Asia. John's commitment to the detailed study of digestive disorders reflects his zeal to get down to the roots of the problem. His hope and belief in the capacity of each & every client to improve their quality of life is nothing short of a personal passion. John's creativity in the kitchen and delight in cooking for others comes from his family oriented upbringing. In addition to his certification in Ayurveda, John holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Harvard University. John enjoys sharing Ayurveda within the context of his Catholic roots, and finds Ayurveda gives him an opportunity to participate in the healing mission of the Church. Jesus expressed God's love by feeding and healing the sick. That kindness is the fundamental ministry of Ayurveda as well. Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife and 6 kids, and pursuing his love of theology, philosophy, and language. STUDY AYURVEDA
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