supplication

Everyday

1. Supplication is asking for something humbly and seriously, especially from God or a powerful person (formal). tree →
2. (church) A supplication is a humble prayer asking God for help. tree →

In the lessons

You meet «supplication» in church prayers, the Bible, history and older stories. It tells the reader that someone is pleading, often kneeling or with hands raised. Christians speak of prayer and supplication. Phrases: in supplication, prayers and supplications.

Examples

• She raised her hands in supplication. tree →
• Christians believe God hears prayers and supplications. tree →
• The poor man knelt before the king in supplication. tree →
• The prayer book has a supplication for the sick. tree →
• The villagers made a supplication for rain. tree →
• His voice was full of supplication. tree →
• The prince read and bared his head and lifted his hands in supplication to Him who has no needs, and prayed, “O Friend of the traveller! tree →

Note

Formal word. Verb: supplicate; adjective: suppliant. Plain words: plea, prayer, begging. Do not confuse with «supplement» (something added) or «supply».

In Jewish tradition

In the Tanakh it is a humble prayer asking God for mercy or help, often alongside "prayer".

Interpretation. Tradition sees supplication as a way to ask God for mercy rather than demand it. Solomon's prayer at the Temple is a model, and the prayers of Tachanun are also called supplications.

Examples

• The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD receiveth my prayer. (Writings PSA.6.10, JPS 1917) tree →
• I love that the LORD should hear my voice and my supplications. (Writings PSA.116.1, JPS 1917) tree →
• Let my supplication come before Thee; deliver me according to Thy word. (Writings PSA.119.170, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Formal word. Verb: supplicate; adjective: suppliant. Plain words: plea, prayer, begging. Do not confuse with «supplement» (something added) or «supply».