Changes

==PAPER 91: THE EVOLUTION OF PRAYER==

==PAPER 91: THE EVOLUTION OF PRAYER==

91:0.1 [[Prayer]], as an [[agency]] of [[religion]], evolved from previous nonreligious monologue and [[dialogue]] [[expressions]]. With the [[attainment]] of [[self-consciousness]] by [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive man] there occurred the [[inevitable]] corollary of [[other]]-[[consciousness]], the [[dual]] [[potential]] of [[social]] [[response]] and [[God]] [[recognition]].

91:0.1 [[Prayer]], as an [[agency]] of [[religion]], evolved from previous nonreligious monologue and [[dialogue]] [[expressions]]. With the [[attainment]] of [[self-consciousness]] by [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive man] there occurred the [[inevitable]] corollary of [[other]]-[[consciousness]], the [[dual]] [[potential]] of [[social]] [[response]] and [[God]] [[recognition]].

91:0.2 The earliest [[prayer]] forms were not addressed to [[Deity]]. These [[expressions]] were much like what you would say to a [[friend]] as you entered upon some important undertaking, "[[Wish]] me [[luck]]." [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Primitive man] was [[enslaved]] to [[magic]]; [[luck]], good and bad, entered into all the affairs of life. At first, these luck [[petitions]] were monologues—just a kind of [[thinking]] out loud by the [[magic]] server. Next, these believers in [[luck]] would enlist the support of their [[friends]] and [[families]], and presently some [[form]] of [[ceremony]] would be [[performed]] which included the whole [[clan]] or [[tribe]].

91:0.2 The earliest [[prayer]] forms were not addressed to [[Deity]]. These [[expressions]] were much like what you would say to a [[friend]] as you entered upon some important undertaking, "[[Wish]] me [[luck]]." [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Primitive man] was [[enslaved]] to [[magic]]; [[luck]], good and bad, entered into all the affairs of life. At first, these luck [[petitions]] were monologues—just a kind of [[thinking]] out loud by the [[magic]] server. Next, these believers in [[luck]] would enlist the support of their [[friends]] and [[families]], and presently some [[form]] of [[ceremony]] would be [[performed]] which included the whole [[clan]] or [[tribe]].

91:0.3 When the [[concepts]] of [[ghosts]] and spirits evolved, these [[petitions]] became [[superhuman]] in address, and with the [[consciousness]] of [[gods]], such [[expressions]] [[attained]] to the levels of genuine [[prayer]]. As an [[illustration]] of this, among certain Australian [[tribes]] primitive religious [[prayers]] antedated their [[belief]] in spirits and [[superhuman]] [[personalities]].

91:0.3 When the [[concepts]] of [[ghosts]] and spirits evolved, these [[petitions]] became [[superhuman]] in address, and with the [[consciousness]] of [[gods]], such [[expressions]] [[attained]] to the levels of genuine [[prayer]]. As an [[illustration]] of this, among certain Australian [[tribes]] primitive religious [[prayers]] antedated their [[belief]] in spirits and [[superhuman]] [[personalities]].

91:0.4 The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toda_Tribe Toda] [[tribe]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India India] now [[observes]] this [[practice]] of praying to no one in particular, just as did the early peoples before the times of religious [[consciousness]]. Only, among the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toda_Tribe Todas], this [[represents]] a regression of their [[degenerating]] [[religion]] to this [[primitive]] level. The present-day [[rituals]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toda_Tribe#Religion dairymen priests] of the Todas do not [[represent]] a [[religious]] [[ceremony]] since these [[impersonal]] [[prayers]] do not contribute anything to the [[conservation]] or enhancement of any [[social]], [[moral]], or [[spiritual]] [[values]].

91:0.4 The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toda_Tribe Toda] [[tribe]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India India] now [[observes]] this [[practice]] of praying to no one in particular, just as did the early peoples before the times of religious [[consciousness]]. Only, among the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toda_Tribe Todas], this [[represents]] a regression of their [[degenerating]] [[religion]] to this [[primitive]] level. The present-day [[rituals]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toda_Tribe#Religion dairymen priests] of the Todas do not [[represent]] a [[religious]] [[ceremony]] since these [[impersonal]] [[prayers]] do not contribute anything to the [[conservation]] or enhancement of any [[social]], [[moral]], or [[spiritual]] [[values]].

91:0.5 Prereligious praying was part of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C4%81ori_religion#Tapu_and_mana mana practices] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melanesia Melanesians], the [[oudah]] [[beliefs]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pygmy_peoples African Pygmies], and the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manitou manitou] [[superstitions]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indigenous_peoples_of_the_Americas North American Indians]. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baganda Baganda] [[tribes]] of Africa have only recently emerged from the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C4%81ori_religion#Tapu_and_mana mana] level of [[prayer]]. In this early [[evolutionary]] [[confusion]] men pray to gods—local and national—to [[fetishes]], amulets, [[ghosts]], rulers, and to ordinary people.

91:0.5 Prereligious praying was part of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C4%81ori_religion#Tapu_and_mana mana practices] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melanesia Melanesians], the [[oudah]] [[beliefs]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pygmy_peoples African Pygmies], and the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manitou manitou] [[superstitions]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indigenous_peoples_of_the_Americas North American Indians]. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baganda Baganda] [[tribes]] of Africa have only recently emerged from the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C4%81ori_religion#Tapu_and_mana mana] level of [[prayer]]. In this early [[evolutionary]] [[confusion]] men pray to gods—local and national—to [[fetishes]], amulets, [[ghosts]], rulers, and to ordinary people.

==91:1. PRIMITIVE PRAYER==

==91:1. PRIMITIVE PRAYER==

91:1.1 The [[function]] of early [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:3._THE_NATURE_OF_EVOLUTIONARY_RELIGION evolutionary religion] is to [[conserve]] and augment the [[essential]] [[social]], [[moral]], and [[spiritual]] [[values]] which are slowly taking [[form]]. This mission of [[religion]] is not [[consciously]] [[observed]] by [[mankind]], but it is chiefly [[effected]] by the [[function]] of [[prayer]]. The [[practice]] of prayer [[represents]] the unintended, but nonetheless [[personal]] and [[collective]], [[effort]] of any [[group]] to secure (to [[actualize]]) this conservation of higher [[values]]. But for the safeguarding of [[prayer]], all holy days would speedily revert to the [[status]] of mere holidays.

91:1.1 The [[function]] of early [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:3._THE_NATURE_OF_EVOLUTIONARY_RELIGION evolutionary religion] is to [[conserve]] and augment the [[essential]] [[social]], [[moral]], and [[spiritual]] [[values]] which are slowly taking [[form]]. This mission of [[religion]] is not [[consciously]] [[observed]] by [[mankind]], but it is chiefly [[effected]] by the [[function]] of [[prayer]]. The [[practice]] of prayer [[represents]] the unintended, but nonetheless [[personal]] and [[collective]], [[effort]] of any [[group]] to secure (to [[actualize]]) this conservation of higher [[values]]. But for the safeguarding of [[prayer]], all holy days would speedily revert to the [[status]] of mere holidays.

91:1.2 [[Religion]] and its [[agencies]], the chief of which is [[prayer]], are allied only with those [[values]] which have general [[social]] [[recognition]], group approval. Therefore, when [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive man] attempted to gratify his baser [[emotions]] or to achieve unmitigated [[selfish]] [[ambitions]], he was deprived of the consolation of [[religion]] and the [[assistance]] of [[prayer]]. If the [[individual]] sought to accomplish anything antisocial, he was obliged to seek the aid of nonreligious [[magic]], resort to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maleficium_%28sorcery%29 sorcerers], and thus be deprived of the [[assistance]] of [[prayer]]. Prayer, therefore, very early became a mighty promoter of [[social]] [[evolution]], [[moral]] [[progress]], and [[spiritual]] [[attainment]].

91:1.2 [[Religion]] and its [[agencies]], the chief of which is [[prayer]], are allied only with those [[values]] which have general [[social]] [[recognition]], group approval. Therefore, when [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive man] attempted to gratify his baser [[emotions]] or to achieve unmitigated [[selfish]] [[ambitions]], he was deprived of the consolation of [[religion]] and the [[assistance]] of [[prayer]]. If the [[individual]] sought to accomplish anything antisocial, he was obliged to seek the aid of nonreligious [[magic]], resort to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maleficium_%28sorcery%29 sorcerers], and thus be deprived of the [[assistance]] of [[prayer]]. Prayer, therefore, very early became a mighty promoter of [[social]] [[evolution]], [[moral]] [[progress]], and [[spiritual]] [[attainment]].

91:1.3 But the [[primitive]] [[mind]] was neither [[logical]] nor [[consistent]]. Early men did not [[perceive]] that [[material]] [[things]] were not the province of [[prayer]]. These [[simple]]-minded [[souls]] reasoned that [[food]], [[shelter]], rain, game, and other [[material]] goods enhanced the social welfare, and therefore they began to [[pray]] for these [[physical]] [[blessings]]. While this constituted a [[perversion]] of [[prayer]], it [[encouraged]] the [[effort]] to [[realize]] these material objectives by [[social]] and [[ethical]] [[actions]]. Such a [[prostitution]] of [[prayer]], while debasing the [[spiritual]] [[values]] of a people, nevertheless directly elevated their [[economic]], [[social]], and [[ethical]] [[mores]].

91:1.3 But the [[primitive]] [[mind]] was neither [[logical]] nor [[consistent]]. Early men did not [[perceive]] that [[material]] [[things]] were not the province of [[prayer]]. These [[simple]]-minded [[souls]] reasoned that [[food]], [[shelter]], rain, game, and other [[material]] goods enhanced the social welfare, and therefore they began to [[pray]] for these [[physical]] [[blessings]]. While this constituted a [[perversion]] of [[prayer]], it [[encouraged]] the [[effort]] to [[realize]] these material objectives by [[social]] and [[ethical]] [[actions]]. Such a [[prostitution]] of [[prayer]], while debasing the [[spiritual]] [[values]] of a people, nevertheless directly elevated their [[economic]], [[social]], and [[ethical]] [[mores]].

91:3.1 [[Children]], when first [[learning]] to make use of [[language]], are prone to [[think]] out loud, to [[express]] their [[thoughts]] in [[words]], even if no one is present to hear them. With the [[dawn]] of [[creative]] [[imagination]] they evince a [[tendency]] to converse with imaginary companions. In this way a budding [[ego]] seeks to hold [[communion]] with a fictitious [[alter ego]]. By this [[technique]] the child early learns to [[convert]] his monologue conversations into pseudo [[dialogues]] in which this [[alter ego]] makes replies to his verbal [[thinking]] and [[wish]] [[expression]]. Very much of an adult's [[thinking]] is mentally carried on in [[conversational]] [[form]].

91:3.1 [[Children]], when first [[learning]] to make use of [[language]], are prone to [[think]] out loud, to [[express]] their [[thoughts]] in [[words]], even if no one is present to hear them. With the [[dawn]] of [[creative]] [[imagination]] they evince a [[tendency]] to converse with imaginary companions. In this way a budding [[ego]] seeks to hold [[communion]] with a fictitious [[alter ego]]. By this [[technique]] the child early learns to [[convert]] his monologue conversations into pseudo [[dialogues]] in which this [[alter ego]] makes replies to his verbal [[thinking]] and [[wish]] [[expression]]. Very much of an adult's [[thinking]] is mentally carried on in [[conversational]] [[form]].

91:3.2 The early and [[primitive]] form of [[prayer]] was much like the semimagical [[recitations]] of the present-day [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toda_people Toda tribe], [[prayers]] that were not addressed to anyone in particular. But such [[techniques]] of praying tend to evolve into the [[dialogue]] type of [[communication]] by the [[emergence]] of the [[idea]] of an [[alter ego]]. In time the alter-ego [[concept]] is exalted to a superior [[status]] of [[divine]] [[dignity]], and [[prayer]] as an [[agency]] of [[religion]] has appeared. Through many [[phases]] and during long ages this [[primitive]] type of praying is destined to evolve before ''attaining'' the level of [[intelligent]] and truly ethical [[prayer]].

91:3.2 The early and [[primitive]] form of [[prayer]] was much like the semimagical [[recitations]] of the present-day [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toda_people Toda tribe], [[prayers]] that were not addressed to anyone in particular. But such [[techniques]] of praying tend to evolve into the [[dialogue]] type of [[communication]] by the [[emergence]] of the [[idea]] of an [[alter ego]]. In time the alter-ego [[concept]] is exalted to a superior [[status]] of [[divine]] [[dignity]], and [[prayer]] as an [[agency]] of [[religion]] has appeared. Through many [[phases]] and during long ages this [[primitive]] type of praying is destined to evolve before ''attaining'' the level of [[intelligent]] and truly ethical [[prayer]].

91:3.3 As it is conceived by [[successive]] [[generations]] of praying [[mortals]], the [[alter ego]] evolves up through [[ghosts]], [[fetishes]], and spirits to [[polytheistic]] gods, and [[eventually]] to the One [[God]], a [[divine]] [[being]] embodying the highest [[ideals]] and the loftiest [[aspirations]] of the praying [[ego]]. And thus does [[prayer]] [[function]] as the most [[potent]] [[agency]] of [[religion]] in the [[conservation]] of the highest [[values]] and [[ideals]] of those who pray. From the [[moment]] of the conceiving of an [[alter ego]] to the [[appearance]] of the [[concept]] of a [[divine]] and heavenly [[Father]], prayer is always a socializing, moralizing, and spiritualizing [[practice]].

91:3.3 As it is conceived by [[successive]] [[generations]] of praying [[mortals]], the [[alter ego]] evolves up through [[ghosts]], [[fetishes]], and spirits to [[polytheistic]] gods, and [[eventually]] to the One [[God]], a [[divine]] [[being]] embodying the highest [[ideals]] and the loftiest [[aspirations]] of the praying [[ego]]. And thus does [[prayer]] [[function]] as the most [[potent]] [[agency]] of [[religion]] in the [[conservation]] of the highest [[values]] and [[ideals]] of those who pray. From the [[moment]] of the conceiving of an [[alter ego]] to the [[appearance]] of the [[concept]] of a [[divine]] and heavenly [[Father]], prayer is always a socializing, moralizing, and spiritualizing [[practice]].

91:3.4 The [[simple]] [[prayer]] of [[faith]] [[evidences]] a mighty [[evolution]] in human [[experience]] whereby the [[ancient]] conversations with the fictitious [[symbol]] of the [[alter ego]] of [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_86#86:7._THE_FUNCTION_OF_PRIMITIVE_RELIGION primitive religion] have become exalted to the level of [[communion]] with the [[spirit]] of the [[Infinite]] and to that of a [[bona fide]] [[consciousness]] of the [[reality]] of the [[eternal]] [[God]] and [[Paradise]] [[Father]] of all [[intelligent]] [[creation]].

91:3.4 The [[simple]] [[prayer]] of [[faith]] [[evidences]] a mighty [[evolution]] in human [[experience]] whereby the [[ancient]] conversations with the fictitious [[symbol]] of the [[alter ego]] of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_86#86:7._THE_FUNCTION_OF_PRIMITIVE_RELIGION primitive religion] have become exalted to the level of [[communion]] with the [[spirit]] of the [[Infinite]] and to that of a [[bona fide]] [[consciousness]] of the [[reality]] of the [[eternal]] [[God]] and [[Paradise]] [[Father]] of all [[intelligent]] [[creation]].

91:3.5 Aside from all that is superself in the [[experience]] of [[praying]], it should be [[remembered]] that [[ethical]] [[prayer]] is a splendid way to elevate one's [[ego]] and reinforce the [[self]] for better living and higher [[attainment]]. [[Prayer]] induces the [[human]] [[ego]] to look both ways for help: for [[material]] aid to the [[subconscious]] reservoir of [[mortal]] [[experience]], for [[inspiration]] and [[guidance]] to the [[superconscious]] borders of the contact of the [[material]] with the [[spiritual]], with the [[Mystery Monitor]].

91:3.5 Aside from all that is superself in the [[experience]] of [[praying]], it should be [[remembered]] that [[ethical]] [[prayer]] is a splendid way to elevate one's [[ego]] and reinforce the [[self]] for better living and higher [[attainment]]. [[Prayer]] induces the [[human]] [[ego]] to look both ways for help: for [[material]] aid to the [[subconscious]] reservoir of [[mortal]] [[experience]], for [[inspiration]] and [[guidance]] to the [[superconscious]] borders of the contact of the [[material]] with the [[spiritual]], with the [[Mystery Monitor]].

91:4.2 [[Prayer]] must never be so [[prostituted]] as to become a substitute for [[action]]. All ethical [[prayer]] is a [[stimulus]] to [[action]] and a guide to the [[progressive]] striving for idealistic goals of superself-[[attainment]].

91:4.2 [[Prayer]] must never be so [[prostituted]] as to become a substitute for [[action]]. All ethical [[prayer]] is a [[stimulus]] to [[action]] and a guide to the [[progressive]] striving for idealistic goals of superself-[[attainment]].

91:4.3 In all your praying be [[fair]]; do not expect [[God]] to show partiality, to [[love]] you more than his other [[children]], your [[friends]], [[neighbors]], even enemies. But the [[prayer]] of the [[natural]] or [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:3._THE_NATURE_OF_EVOLUTIONARY_RELIGION evolved religions] is not at first [[ethical]], as it is in the later [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:4._THE_GIFT_OF_REVELATION revealed religions]. All praying, whether [[individual]] or [[communal]], may be either [[egoistic]] or [[altruistic]]. That is, the [[prayer]] may be [[centered]] upon the [[self]] or upon [[others]]. When the [[prayer]] seeks nothing for the one who prays nor anything for his fellows, then such [[attitudes]] of the [[soul]] tend to the levels of true [[worship]]. [[Egoistic]] prayers involve [[confessions]] and [[petitions]] and often consist in requests for [[material]] [[favors]]. [[Prayer]] is somewhat more [[ethical]] when it deals with [[forgiveness]] and seeks [[wisdom]] for enhanced [[self-control]].

91:4.3 In all your praying be [[fair]]; do not expect [[God]] to show partiality, to [[love]] you more than his other [[children]], your [[friends]], [[neighbors]], even enemies. But the [[prayer]] of the [[natural]] or [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:3._THE_NATURE_OF_EVOLUTIONARY_RELIGION evolved religions] is not at first [[ethical]], as it is in the later [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:4._THE_GIFT_OF_REVELATION revealed religions]. All praying, whether [[individual]] or [[communal]], may be either [[egoistic]] or [[altruistic]]. That is, the [[prayer]] may be [[centered]] upon the [[self]] or upon [[others]]. When the [[prayer]] seeks nothing for the one who prays nor anything for his fellows, then such [[attitudes]] of the [[soul]] tend to the levels of true [[worship]]. [[Egoistic]] prayers involve [[confessions]] and [[petitions]] and often consist in requests for [[material]] [[favors]]. [[Prayer]] is somewhat more [[ethical]] when it deals with [[forgiveness]] and seeks [[wisdom]] for enhanced [[self-control]].

91:4.4 While the nonselfish type of [[prayer]] is strengthening and comforting, [[materialistic]] praying is destined to bring disappointment and [[disillusionment]] as advancing [[scientific]] [[discoveries]] [[demonstrate]] that man lives in a [[physical]] [[universe]] of [[law]] and order. The [[childhood]] of an [[individual]] or a [[race]] is characterized by [[primitive]], selfish, and [[materialistic]] praying. And, to a certain extent, all such petitions are efficacious in that they unvaryingly lead to those efforts and exertions which are contributory to achieving the answers to such prayers. The real [[prayer]] of [[faith]] always contributes to the augmentation of the [[technique]] of living, even if such [[petitions]] are not [[worthy]] of [[spiritual]] [[recognition]]. But the spiritually advanced [[person]] should [[exercise]] great caution in attempting to discourage the [[primitive]] or immature [[mind]] regarding such prayers.

91:4.4 While the nonselfish type of [[prayer]] is strengthening and comforting, [[materialistic]] praying is destined to bring disappointment and [[disillusionment]] as advancing [[scientific]] [[discoveries]] [[demonstrate]] that man lives in a [[physical]] [[universe]] of [[law]] and order. The [[childhood]] of an [[individual]] or a [[race]] is characterized by [[primitive]], selfish, and [[materialistic]] praying. And, to a certain extent, all such petitions are efficacious in that they unvaryingly lead to those efforts and exertions which are contributory to achieving the answers to such prayers. The real [[prayer]] of [[faith]] always contributes to the augmentation of the [[technique]] of living, even if such [[petitions]] are not [[worthy]] of [[spiritual]] [[recognition]]. But the spiritually advanced [[person]] should [[exercise]] great caution in attempting to discourage the [[primitive]] or immature [[mind]] regarding such prayers.

91:5.6 [[Prayer]] is the [[technique]] whereby, sooner or later, every [[religion]] becomes [[institutionalized]]. And in time [[prayer]] becomes associated with numerous secondary [[agencies]], some helpful, others decidedly deleterious, such as [[priests]], [[holy]] [[books]], [[worship]] [[rituals]], and ceremonials.

91:5.6 [[Prayer]] is the [[technique]] whereby, sooner or later, every [[religion]] becomes [[institutionalized]]. And in time [[prayer]] becomes associated with numerous secondary [[agencies]], some helpful, others decidedly deleterious, such as [[priests]], [[holy]] [[books]], [[worship]] [[rituals]], and ceremonials.

91:5.7 But the [[minds]] of greater spiritual [[illumination]] should be [[patient]] with, and [[tolerant]] of, those less endowed [[intellects]] that crave [[symbolism]] for the mobilization of their feeble [[spiritual]] [[insight]]. The strong must not look with disdain upon the weak. Those who are [[God]]-[[conscious]] without [[symbolism]] must not deny the [[grace]]-ministry of the [[symbol]] to those who find it [[difficult]] to [[worship]] [[Deity]] and to [[revere]] [[truth]], [[beauty]], and [[goodness]][http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_56#56:10._TRUTH.2C_BEAUTY.2C_AND_GOODNESS] without [[form]] and [[ritual]]. In prayerful worship, most [[mortals]] envision some [[symbol]] of the object-goal of their [[devotions]].

91:5.7 But the [[minds]] of greater spiritual [[illumination]] should be [[patient]] with, and [[tolerant]] of, those less endowed [[intellects]] that crave [[symbolism]] for the mobilization of their feeble [[spiritual]] [[insight]]. The strong must not look with disdain upon the weak. Those who are [[God]]-[[conscious]] without [[symbolism]] must not deny the [[grace]]-ministry of the [[symbol]] to those who find it [[difficult]] to [[worship]] [[Deity]] and to [[revere]] [[truth]], [[beauty]], and [[goodness]][https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_56#56:10._TRUTH.2C_BEAUTY.2C_AND_GOODNESS] without [[form]] and [[ritual]]. In prayerful worship, most [[mortals]] envision some [[symbol]] of the object-goal of their [[devotions]].

==91:6. THE PROVINCE OF PRAYER==

==91:6. THE PROVINCE OF PRAYER==

91:7.2 The great [[religious]] [[teachers]] and the [[prophets]] of [[past]] ages were not extreme [[mystics]]. They were [[God]]-knowing men and women who best served their [[God]] by unselfish [[ministry]] to their fellow [[mortals]]. [[Jesus]] often took his [[apostles]] away by themselves for short periods to [[engage]] in [[meditation]] and [[prayer]], but for the most part he kept them in [[service]]-[[contact]] with the multitudes. The [[soul]] of man requires [[spiritual]] [[exercise]] as well as spiritual nourishment.

91:7.2 The great [[religious]] [[teachers]] and the [[prophets]] of [[past]] ages were not extreme [[mystics]]. They were [[God]]-knowing men and women who best served their [[God]] by unselfish [[ministry]] to their fellow [[mortals]]. [[Jesus]] often took his [[apostles]] away by themselves for short periods to [[engage]] in [[meditation]] and [[prayer]], but for the most part he kept them in [[service]]-[[contact]] with the multitudes. The [[soul]] of man requires [[spiritual]] [[exercise]] as well as spiritual nourishment.

91:7.3 [[Religious]] [[ecstasy]] is permissible when resulting from [[sane]] antecedents, but such [[experiences]] are more often the outgrowth of [[purely]] [[emotional]] [[influences]] than a [[manifestation]] of deep [[spiritual]] [[character]]. Religious [[persons]] must not regard every vivid [[psychologic]] presentiment and every [[intense]] [[emotional]] [[experience]] as a [[divine]] [[revelation]] or a [[spiritual]] [[communication]]. Genuine [[spiritual]] [[ecstasy]] is usually [[associated]] with great outward [[calmness]] and almost [[perfect]] [[emotional]] [[control]]. But true [[prophetic]] [[vision]] is a superpsychologic presentiment. Such [[visitations]] are not pseudo [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hallucination hallucinations], neither are they [[Trance|trancelike]] ecstasies.

91:7.3 [[Religious]] [[ecstasy]] is permissible when resulting from [[sane]] antecedents, but such [[experiences]] are more often the outgrowth of [[purely]] [[emotional]] [[influences]] than a [[manifestation]] of deep [[spiritual]] [[character]]. Religious [[persons]] must not regard every vivid [[psychologic]] presentiment and every [[intense]] [[emotional]] [[experience]] as a [[divine]] [[revelation]] or a [[spiritual]] [[communication]]. Genuine [[spiritual]] [[ecstasy]] is usually [[associated]] with great outward [[calmness]] and almost [[perfect]] [[emotional]] [[control]]. But true [[prophetic]] [[vision]] is a superpsychologic presentiment. Such [[visitations]] are not pseudo [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hallucination hallucinations], neither are they [[Trance|trancelike]] ecstasies.

91:7.4 The [[human]] [[mind]] may [[perform]] in [[response]] to so-called [[inspiration]] when it is [[sensitive]] either to the uprisings of the [[subconscious]] or to the [[stimulus]] of the [[superconscious]]. In either case it [[appears]] to the [[individual]] that such augmentations of the [[content]] of [[consciousness]] are more or less foreign. Unrestrained mystical [[enthusiasm]] and rampant religious [[ecstasy]] are not the credentials of [[inspiration]], supposedly [[divine]] credentials.

91:7.4 The [[human]] [[mind]] may [[perform]] in [[response]] to so-called [[inspiration]] when it is [[sensitive]] either to the uprisings of the [[subconscious]] or to the [[stimulus]] of the [[superconscious]]. In either case it [[appears]] to the [[individual]] that such augmentations of the [[content]] of [[consciousness]] are more or less foreign. Unrestrained mystical [[enthusiasm]] and rampant religious [[ecstasy]] are not the credentials of [[inspiration]], supposedly [[divine]] credentials.

*3. More fully and [[joyfully]] to socialize his religious [[experience]].

*3. More fully and [[joyfully]] to socialize his religious [[experience]].

*4. More completely to spiritualize his day-by-day living while faithfully discharging the commonplace [[duties]] of routine [[mortal]] [[existence]].

*4. More completely to spiritualize his day-by-day living while faithfully discharging the commonplace [[duties]] of routine [[mortal]] [[existence]].

*5. To enhance his [[love]] for, and [[appreciation]] of, [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_56#56:10._TRUTH.2C_BEAUTY.2C_AND_GOODNESS truth, beauty, and goodness].

*5. To enhance his [[love]] for, and [[appreciation]] of, [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_56#56:10._TRUTH.2C_BEAUTY.2C_AND_GOODNESS truth, beauty, and goodness].

*6. To [[conserve]] currently recognized [[social]], [[moral]], [[ethical]], and [[spiritual]] [[values]].

*6. To [[conserve]] currently recognized [[social]], [[moral]], [[ethical]], and [[spiritual]] [[values]].

*7. To increase his [[spiritual]] [[insight]]—[[God-consciousness]].

*7. To increase his [[spiritual]] [[insight]]—[[God-consciousness]].

==91:8. PRAYING AS A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE==

==91:8. PRAYING AS A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE==

91:8.1 There is a truly [[spontaneous]] aspect to [[prayer]], for [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive man] found himself praying long before he had any clear [[concept]] of a [[God]]. Early man was wont to [[pray]] in two [[diverse]] situations: When in dire need, he experienced the impulse to reach out for [[help]]; and when jubilant, he indulged the impulsive [[expression]] of [[joy]].

91:8.1 There is a truly [[spontaneous]] aspect to [[prayer]], for [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive man] found himself praying long before he had any clear [[concept]] of a [[God]]. Early man was wont to [[pray]] in two [[diverse]] situations: When in dire need, he experienced the impulse to reach out for [[help]]; and when jubilant, he indulged the impulsive [[expression]] of [[joy]].

91:8.2 [[Prayer]] is not an [[evolution]] of [[magic]]; they each arose [[independently]]. [[Magic]] was an attempt to [[adjust]] [[Deity]] to conditions; [[prayer]] is the [[effort]] to adjust the [[personality]] to the will of [[Deity]]. True [[prayer]] is both [[moral]] and [[religious]]; [[magic]] is neither.

91:8.2 [[Prayer]] is not an [[evolution]] of [[magic]]; they each arose [[independently]]. [[Magic]] was an attempt to [[adjust]] [[Deity]] to conditions; [[prayer]] is the [[effort]] to adjust the [[personality]] to the will of [[Deity]]. True [[prayer]] is both [[moral]] and [[religious]]; [[magic]] is neither.

91:8.4 To some [[individuals]] [[prayer]] is the calm [[expression]] of [[gratitude]]; to others, a [[group]] [[expression]] of [[praise]], [[social]] devotions; sometimes it is the imitation of another's [[religion]], while in true praying it is the [[sincere]] and trusting [[communication]] of the [[spiritual]] [[nature]] of the [[creature]] with the anywhere [[presence]] of [[Thought Adjuster|the spirit of the Creator]].

91:8.4 To some [[individuals]] [[prayer]] is the calm [[expression]] of [[gratitude]]; to others, a [[group]] [[expression]] of [[praise]], [[social]] devotions; sometimes it is the imitation of another's [[religion]], while in true praying it is the [[sincere]] and trusting [[communication]] of the [[spiritual]] [[nature]] of the [[creature]] with the anywhere [[presence]] of [[Thought Adjuster|the spirit of the Creator]].

91:8.5 [[Prayer]] may be a [[spontaneous]] [[expression]] of [[God-consciousness]] or a meaningless [[recitation]] of [[theologic]] [[formulas]]. It may be the [[ecstatic]] [[praise]] of a God-knowing [[soul]] or the slavish [[obeisance]] of a [[fear]]-ridden [[mortal]]. It is sometimes the pathetic [[expression]] of spiritual craving and sometimes the blatant shouting of pious [[phrases]]. [[Prayer]] may be [[joyous]] [[praise]] or a [[humble]] plea for [[forgiveness]].

91:8.5 [[Prayer]] may be a [[spontaneous]] [[expression]] of [[God-consciousness]] or a meaningless [[recitation]] of [[theologic]] [[formulas]]. It may be the [[ecstatic]] [[praise]] of a God-knowing [[soul]] or the slavish obeisance of a [[fear]]-ridden [[mortal]]. It is sometimes the pathetic [[expression]] of spiritual craving and sometimes the blatant shouting of pious [[phrases]]. [[Prayer]] may be [[joyous]] [[praise]] or a [[humble]] plea for [[forgiveness]].

91:8.6 [[Prayer]] may be the childlike plea for the impossible or the [[mature]] entreaty for [[moral]] [[growth]] and [[spiritual]] [[power]]. A [[petition]] may be for daily bread or may embody a wholehearted yearning to find [[God]] and to [[do his will]]. It may be a wholly [[selfish]] request or a true and [[magnificent]] [[gesture]] toward the [[realization]] of [[unselfish]] brotherhood.

91:8.6 [[Prayer]] may be the childlike plea for the impossible or the [[mature]] entreaty for [[moral]] [[growth]] and [[spiritual]] [[power]]. A [[petition]] may be for daily bread or may embody a wholehearted yearning to find [[God]] and to [[do his will]]. It may be a wholly [[selfish]] request or a true and [[magnificent]] [[gesture]] toward the [[realization]] of [[unselfish]] brotherhood.

91:8.7 [[Prayer]] may be an [[angry]] cry for [[vengeance]] or a [[merciful]] [[intercession]] for one's enemies. It may be the [[expression]] of a [[hope]] of changing [[God]] or the powerful [[technique]] of changing one's [[self]]. It may be the cringing [[plea]] of a lost sinner before a supposedly stern [[Judge]] or the [[joyful]] [[expression]] of a [[liberated]] son of the living and [[merciful]] heavenly [[Father]].

91:8.7 [[Prayer]] may be an [[angry]] cry for [https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vengeance?show=0&t=1284134077 vengeance] or a [[merciful]] [[intercession]] for one's enemies. It may be the [[expression]] of a [[hope]] of changing [[God]] or the powerful [[technique]] of changing one's [[self]]. It may be the cringing [[plea]] of a lost sinner before a supposedly stern [[Judge]] or the [[joyful]] [[expression]] of a [[liberated]] son of the living and [[merciful]] heavenly [[Father]].

91:8.8 [[Modern]] man is [[perplexed]] by the [[thought]] of talking [[things]] over with [[God]] in a [[purely]] [[personal]] way. Many have abandoned regular praying; they only pray when under unusual [[pressure]]—in [[emergencies]]. Man should be unafraid to talk to [[God]], but only a spiritual child would undertake to [[persuade]], or presume to [[change]], [[God]].

91:8.8 [[Modern]] man is [[perplexed]] by the [[thought]] of talking [[things]] over with [[God]] in a [[purely]] [[personal]] way. Many have abandoned regular praying; they only pray when under unusual [[pressure]]—in [[emergencies]]. Man should be unafraid to talk to [[God]], but only a spiritual child would undertake to [[persuade]], or presume to [[change]], [[God]].

==91:9. CONDITIONS OF EFFECTIVE PRAYER==

==91:9. CONDITIONS OF EFFECTIVE PRAYER==

91:9.1 If you would engage in effective praying, you should bear in mind the laws of prevailing petitions:

91:9.1 If you would [[engage]] in [[effective]] praying, you should bear in [[mind]] the [[laws]] of prevailing [[petitions]]:

*1. 91:9.2 You must qualify as a potent prayer by sincerely and courageously facing the problems of universe reality. You must possess cosmic stamina.

*1. 91:9.2 You must qualify as a [[potent]] prayer by [[sincerely]] and [[courageously]] facing the [[problems]] of [[universe]] [[reality]]. You must possess [[cosmic]] [[stamina]].

*2. 91:9.3 You must have honestly exhausted the human capacity for human adjustment. You must have been industrious.

*2. 91:9.3 You must have [[honestly]] exhausted the human [[capacity]] for human [[adjustment]]. You must have been industrious.

*3. 91:9.4 You must surrender every wish of mind and every craving of soul to the transforming embrace of spiritual growth. You must have experienced an enhancement of meanings and an elevation of values.

*3. 91:9.4 You must [[surrender]] every [[wish]] of [[mind]] and every craving of [[soul]] to the transforming [[embrace]] of [[spiritual]] [[growth]]. You must have [[experienced]] an enhancement of [[meanings]] and an elevation of [[values]].

*4. 91:9.5 You must make a wholehearted choice of the divine will. You must obliterate the dead center of indecision.

*4. 91:9.5 You must make a wholehearted [[choice]] of the [[divine]] [[Free will|will]]. You must obliterate the dead [[center]] of indecision.

*5. 91:9.6 You not only recognize the Father's will and choose to do it, but you have effected an unqualified consecration, and a dynamic dedication, to the actual doing of the Father's will.

*5. 91:9.6 You not only [[recognize]] [[the Father]]'s will and [[choose]] to do it, but you have [[effected]] an unqualified [[consecration]], and a [[dynamic]] [[dedication]], to the [[actual]] [[doing of the Father's will]].

*6. 91:9.7 Your prayer will be directed exclusively for divine wisdom to solve the specific human problems encountered in the Paradise ascension—the attainment of divine perfection.

*6. 91:9.7 Your [[prayer]] will be directed exclusively for [[divine]] [[wisdom]] to solve the specific human [[problems]] encountered in the [[Paradise ascension]]—the [[attainment]] of divine [[perfection]].

*7. 91:9.8 And you must have faith—living faith.

*7. 91:9.8 And you must have faith—living [[faith]].

91:9.9 Presented by the Chief of the Urantia [[Midwayers]].

91:9.9 [Presented by the Chief of the [[Urantia]] [[Midwayers]]].

<center>[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92 Go to Next Paper]</center><center>[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_90 Go to Previous Paper]</center>

<center>[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92 Go to Next Paper]</center><center>[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_90 Go to Previous Paper]</center>

<center>[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Urantia_Text_-_Contents Go to Table of Contents]</center>

<center>[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=The_Urantia_Text_-_Contents Go to Table of Contents]</center>

[[Category: PART III: The History of Urantia]]

[[Category: PART III: The History of Urantia]]