Is the use of a "Prayer Shawl" by "Chrsitians" inappropriate?

Question

Show what you know! Give us a defense of your position... Best answer is posted on our website.

Answer 1

The modern Christian is under no commandment requiring the use of prayer shawls. However, many find the use of a prayer shawl helpful or comforting for some of the same reasons it is used in other traditions. Prayer shawls create an altered experience of the physical space and sensation of prayer. By changing the common, everyday sensations with which we are surrounded, the prayer shawl assists the person praying to focus on God. Additionally, some find that wearing the prayer shawl encourages the turning inward that is one of the necessary components of prayer, by providing the symbolic “cover” of prayer so often mentioned in the Psalms.

There is no right way or wrong way to use a prayer shawl within the Christian tradition. Some people will choose to wear them around their shoulders. Some will choose to wear them draped over their head. Some may simply lay the shawl across their lap while praying. In short, whatever you find comfortable and meaningful should guide you in using the shawl. Keep in mind, the prayer shawl is only a tool, designed to facilitate turning toward God in earnest and heartfelt prayer. If the prayer shawl helps you achieve that goal, then it is a useful tool. There is nothing magical or superstitious about its use. Using a prayer shawl doesn’t mean God will hear you “better” during prayer or be more inclined to answer prayers in a manner that you may wish to see. Conversely, not using a prayer shawl certainly does not prevent your prayers from being heard or from being any less effective than any other form of prayer.

Answer 2

My heavens, I never have been flashed, but I did unintentionally flash a few folks once. I was in the hospital some time back and decided to take a stoll to the vending area. Well, I wasn't thinking about what I was wearing and, let's just say that those hospital gowns don't leave a lot to the imagination on the backside. The nurse came up from behind me and put a blanket over my shoulders . . . I was wondering why it was a little drafty back there!

Answer 3

The use of a prayer shawl is appropriate when the cultural conditions require it. There is nothing intrinsically spiritual about a woman covering her head. At the time the following passage was written a head covering worn by a married woman was a symbol that she was under the authority of her husband.

1 Corinthians 11:4 Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head, 5 but every wife who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head--it is the same as if her head were shaven. 6 For if a wife will not cover her head, then she should cut her hair short. But since it is disgraceful for a wife to cut off her hair or shave her head, let her cover her head. 7 For a man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God, but woman is the glory of man. 8 For man was not made from woman, but woman from man. 9 Neither was man created for woman, but woman for man. 10 That is why a wife ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels.

Answer 4

It is very much so.

A talit, or prayer shawl, should be worn by Jewish men. Obviously, being a Christian, you are not a Jewish man, therefore doing something you shouldn't be doing. A talit is a sign of a Jewish man, and in ashkenazi communities, a sign of marriage. You'll be disgracing the actual religion itself, falsely representing a Jewish guy who has the right and the commandment to wear one.

Answer 5

If you want to look like a Quaker or something ,go ahead .There's no law for it or against it.It isn't bad but you know it would be one of those ..."Look at me ,I'm holier than thou" things.The same as the lady who can't just sing,she has to raise her hands when she sings,of course,blocking my view.So another Chick has to "one up "her.So not only does she raise her hands,she has to stand! Now I really am blocked from seeing the lyrics on the big screen!

Answer 6

If it's somehow attached to the observance of outdated old testament practices, yes.

If not, no.

Answer 7

It really depends on how you use it. If you wear it no if you pray to it than yes..................................................................................................