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OrthodoxChristianity.net > Moderated Forums > Orthodox-Other Christian Discussion > Topic: Catholics and Western Christians: Why The Palms During Prayer?
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IssacTheSyrian
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« on: February 04, 2011, 09:04:37 PM »
This topic has bothered me on and off for a while and the question is this:
Why do the Catholics and Western Christians press their palms together when they pray?

Just like this:




When did they start doing this and why do they do it?



Did they learn it from the Hindu's?
« Last Edit: February 04, 2011, 09:07:33 PM by IssacTheSyrian » Logged
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« Reply #1 on: February 04, 2011, 09:09:08 PM »
Interesting question... I don't know for sure, but doesn't an open palm represent peace? Perhaps it means coming together in peace, or having peace in prayer?
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Ioannis Climacus
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« Reply #2 on: February 05, 2011, 08:33:09 AM »
From what I understand, it actually originates from the medieval commendation ceremony (in which a vassal takes an oath of fealty). In the same way that a vow of obedience is made to a lord, so likewise a similar promise is made to the Lord.
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KBN1
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« Reply #3 on: February 05, 2011, 09:42:57 AM »
Quote from: Ioannis Climacus on February 05, 2011, 08:33:09 AM
From what I understand, it actually originates from the medieval commendation ceremony (in which a vassal takes an oath of fealty). In the same way that a vow of obedience is made to a lord, so likewise a similar promise is made to the Lord.

I have heard this as well.  The vassal would press his palms together and kneel as an act of humility.  If the feudal lord accepted him, the lord would clasp his hands over the hands of the vassal.


source: http://faculty.law.pitt.edu/hibbitts/ctos_ii1.htm#fig2p
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