Abstract
This contribution probes the question how the biblical instruction to pray continuously was understood in the history of Christian spirituality. It investigates two main traditions of interpretation. The first tradition interprets the instruction from a material-temporal perspective. Prayer should be, in the literal sense of the word, everlasting, never ending and perpetual. The second tradition focuses more on the relationship with God, its permanent character, and its lasting and enduring quality. It has to do with the question how a sustainable growth can be improved. It is a spiritual challenge, requiring an in-depth understanding and conversation, to consider and reflect on the difficult and complex interaction between these two approaches.
Highlights
‘Prayer without ceasing’ is a central theme in the history of Christian spirituality.1 The New Testament contains the commandment to pray uninterruptedly in 36 places
The Greek adverb ἀδιαλείπτως can be translated in four ways as continuously, uninterruptedly, constantly and without ceasing. These nuances are important in the reception of the commandment of prayer ‘without ceasing’ in the history of Christian spirituality
This contribution probes the question how this biblical instruction to pray continuously was understood in the history of Christian spirituality
Summary
‘Prayer without ceasing’ is a central theme in the history of Christian spirituality.1 The New Testament contains the commandment to pray uninterruptedly in 36 places. People pray the rosary several times a day to feel certain permanence in their prayer. A rather modern form of continuous prayer is the idea of a world-wide church praying the liturgy of the hours.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
