How to Sign "Pray"
To sign "pray," bring both of your hands together in front of your chest with your palms touching and fingers pointing upward. Your hands should form flat "B" handshapes. Hold them still or pull them slightly toward your chest.
Examples Using "Pray" in a Sentence
1
I will pray for you.
Point to yourself, sign "pray" by pressing your palms together in front of your chest, and then point to the person you are talking to.
2
We pray before dinner.
Sign "we," then sign "pray" with your hands together, followed by the signs for "before" and "dinner" (or "eat").
3
She went to the church to pray.
Establish the subject by pointing, sign "church," and finish with the sign for "pray" by bringing your flat hands together at your chest.
How to Sign "Pray"
To sign "pray," bring both of your hands together in front of your chest with your palms touching and fingers pointing upward. Your hands should form flat "B" handshapes. Hold them still or pull them slightly toward your chest.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and universally recognized. It directly mimics the traditional physical action of folding one's hands together in prayer or reverence, a gesture common in many cultures and religions around the world.
Signing Tips
Keep your hands relaxed but flat, with your fingers pointing straight up toward your chin rather than tilted forward. Make sure your hands are centered right in front of your chest to clearly convey the meaning.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is interlocking the fingers. While some people interlock their fingers when they pray in real life, the standard ASL sign uses flat hands with palms pressed flat against each other. Also, avoid placing your hands too high where they block your face.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Pray" in a Sentence
1I will pray for you.
Point to yourself, sign "pray" by pressing your palms together in front of your chest, and then point to the person you are talking to.
2We pray before dinner.
Sign "we," then sign "pray" with your hands together, followed by the signs for "before" and "dinner" (or "eat").
3She went to the church to pray.
Establish the subject by pointing, sign "church," and finish with the sign for "pray" by bringing your flat hands together at your chest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bow my head when signing "pray"?
You don't have to bow your head for the basic vocabulary word. However, adding a slight head bow or closing your eyes can add emotional depth or context if you are describing a solemn or deeply religious moment.
Can I interlock my fingers for this sign?
It is best to keep your palms flat against each other. While interlocking fingers is a common physical way to pray, the standard ASL sign relies on the flat "B" handshapes pressed together.
Is this sign used for all religions?
Yes, this is the general ASL sign for "pray" or "prayer." It is a universal sign that can be used regardless of the specific religion, denomination, or belief system being discussed.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!