Jesus’ prayer is by far the most important prayer in Orthodox tradition. It is the prayer that must be known by every person who considers himself/herself an Orthodox Christian. Jesus’ prayer is a short contemplating prayer and it is in the form of a formula. This prayer is especially cherished in the Orthodox Church, to the extent that it is treated as “the core of Orthodoxy. According to numerous Church Fathers, Jesus’ Prayer is “essential” to our spiritual growth:
“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner”
These powerful words were taught by numerous generations and they were discussed throughout the history of the Church. The secret of its power lies in repetition. Therefore, it is used as the personal ascetic practice of monks and Christian adherents throughout the Orthodox Christian world.
It is the basic method by which ,those who are praying, open their heart to God. Thus is why it is also called Prayer of the Heart. It is precisely this prayer that the Apostle Paul advocates in the New Testament as a “constant prayer”. Although, science finds it that the prayer originates from the Egyptian deserts around the 5th century and that it has gradually gained its importance in the world today.
Its use is especially often in Hesychasm, the Orthodox Monastic tradition. This tradition is especially present on the Mount Athos as a way of life.
In the continuous repetition of this short prayer, the prayer rope is used. So, the prayer rope is considered to be a tool of prayer. However, the prayer rope is not obligatory and it more serves as a help to those who have just begun entering this mystical world. It is also used by those who are weak and easily lose concentration. In addition, during the repetition of Jesus’ prayer, believers can do prostrations and cross themselves.
beautiful