Prayer refers to reverent words and thoughts directed toward God, gods, goddesses, or other objects of worship. People pray to ask for spiritual benefits for themselves or others. They also offer praise, thanksgiving, or adoration to the object of worship. Prayers may take the form of speech, song, dance, or silent reverence. Some people kneel while praying. Others stand, sit, or lie on the ground.
Prayer is an important form of worship in nearly all the religions in the world. Most religions have regular prayers for both community and private worship. Individuals may also offer private prayers that express personal thoughts. Contemplation is prayer in which a person concentrates only on the object of worship.
