L'énergie de la prière

by Thich Nhat Hanh

Pourquoi prier ? et à qui nous adressons-nous dans la prière ? Pourquoi certaines de nos prières sont-elles suivies d'effet et d'autres pas ? Dans ce petit manuel d'une limpide profondeur spirituelle, le maître zen Thich Nhat Hanh nous révèle, à travers sa longue expérience méditative, tous les aspects de cette mystérieuse énergie qui nous porte à prier. Dans une vision universelle et oecuménique, Thich Nhat Hanh envisage la prière comme un besoin humain fondamental, ne relevant d'aucune religion particulière, mais aussi naturel à l'homme que respirer. Et pour donner force à l'acte de prier, le maître Zen nous engage à développer nos capacités d'attention, de concentration et de pleine présence à la vie. L'énergie de la prière nous introduit à une variété de techniques spirituelles bouddhiques, mais nous offre aussi une magnifique méditation sur le Notre Père et démontre que la prière représente une pratique de gratitude accessible à tous, susceptible de nous ouvrir à l'amour et de nourrir nos vies de sérénité, de joie et de bonheur. Dans notre époque en mal de spiritualité, ce petit guide est un ami précieux.

Genres: Buddhism, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Religion, Philosophy, Meditation, Audiobook

116 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2015

About the author

Thích Nhất Hạnh was a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, teacher, author, poet and peace activist who then lived in southwest France where he was in exile for many years. Born Nguyễn Xuân Bảo, Thích Nhất Hạnh joined a Zen (Vietnamese: Thiền) monastery at the age of 16, and studied Buddhism as a novitiate. Upon his ordination as a monk in 1949, he assumed the Dharma name Thích Nhất Hạnh. Thích is an honorary family name used by all Vietnamese monks and nuns, meaning that they are part of the Shakya (Shakyamuni Buddha) clan. He was often considered the most influential living figure in the lineage of Lâm Tế (Vietnamese Rinzai) Thiền, and perhaps also in Zen Buddhism as a whole.

Reviews

[Kasey Jueds · Rating 5 out of 5]

This little book is surprisingly rich--it's the first of Thich Nhat Hanh's I've read, and offers such an expansive view of prayer. It's one of those books I wanted to begin again from page 1 as soon as I finished reading it. Among the heartful and provocative topics I remember (off the top of my head and in no particular order) are: The Lord's Prayer explained from a Buddhist perspective; the idea of praying to one's ancestors and/or to living family members/loved ones; questions and thoughts about praying to something "outside" oneself vs. praying to/drawing on oneself (I'm way oversimplifying that one, but it's worth reading the book just for that section!). Lots to ponder after reading--I love that.

[Nimue Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful little book exploring the idea of prayer from a Buddhist perspective. It includes considerations of why we pray and who we pray to, as well as offering some simple prayers from this tradition. With its emphasis on responsibility for self, Buddhism is in some ways less akin to the Judeo-Christian tradition and more in tune with Pagan thinking. In many traditions the idea of prayer involves putting things into God’s hands. A Buddhist remains responsible for themselves, and so understands the process and meaning of prayer in entirely different ways. I found this very helpful in my own developing understanding of what prayer is and how we might use it.
The tone of the book is lovely – it’s lightly written, accessible, but in no way patronising. As a non-Buddhist, I found it easy to follow but I think someone from that tradition looking to deepen their practice would also find ideas to work with. I will definitely be looking for more titles by the same author. It very much confirms my feeling that a person can learn about spirituality by exploring traditions other than their own, and that there is always some point of commonality to consider. It’s a very enabling book and I entirely recommend it.

[Frightful_elk · Rating 1 out of 5]

Really disappointing. I was really disillusioned that Thich Nhat Hanh bought into so much mysticism that prayer can magically transmit healing or somehow or another send magical beams to change things.

I was expecting a really insightful exploration of how prayer changes your own inner life and how that change can transmit a ripple outward. I was expecting an exploration of techniques across traditions on methods of accomplishing this. But this was worthless superstition and exploration of superstition.

As enlightening as he is in other works, this one is a real let down. I do not recommend this book.

[liv ❁ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Introduction:
“Prayer, it seems is in our blood. … a constant global hum, … prayer reminds of us our origins.”

“Prayer is not just what we do, it is also who we are.”

Book
“If in your heart you want to change, then whatever spiritual being you believe in will also be happy for you to change.”

“What we call the will of God is linked to our own will. That is why the retribution of our own actions can be changed.”

“If you think that the Buddha is a reality wholly separate from yourself, with absolutely no relationship to you whatsoever, and that you are standing down here and Buddha is sitting up there, then your prayer or prostration is not real because it is based on a wrong perception. The perception of a separate self.”

“To vow to put an end to obstacles and to transform the afflictions is a desire. We bring this desire and direct it toward the Buddha so the Buddha can help us be liberated from afflictions and realize wisdom. But when we recite these lines, we are not just handing this desire over to the Buddha. We are gathering our strength from within and combining it with the strength that lies outside us.”

“We know that if the strength inside does not exist, then the strength outside us also does not exist.”

“When love and compassion are present in us and we send them outward, then that is truly prayer.”

“No matter what our tradition, when we are praying our priority is to arrive at the ultimate dimension. To arrive at the unborn and undying nature of life. To arrive at the kingdom of God. That is God.”

“Life can only be there in the present moment. If our only concern is to invest in tomorrow, then it would be easy to completely forget about the wonders of life in present moment. We have to return to the present moment, to live it deeply and properly. We have to live it in such a way that the kingdom of God is present here and now.”

“There is no phenomena—human or otherwise—that can arise in its own and endure independently. This relies on that. One thing relies on another in order to arise and endure.”

“We need to know how to stop repressing so that the mental formations of desire, fear, indignation, and so on have an opportunity to arise, be recognized, and be transformed.”

“The way of consuming little and making much happiness is the only way out for our present day civilization.”

“Our true happiness comes from being fully conscious in the present moment, aware of our connection to everything else in the universe.”

At the end of the day it’s all really about a self-proclaimed non-religious/non-spiritual person discovering buddhism and realizing they are in fact quite religious/spiritual just non-theistic. This is excellent. Thich Nhat Hanh is always dropping excellent bits of wisdom that I find to be incredibly helpful and comforting in this life.

[Bron · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm curious about prayer because although I'm a non believer and have trouble even with the concept of 'spiritual', I do sometimes get the distinct impression that prayer helps. This is a short book that starts out by comparing Buddhist ideas of prayer with those of other faiths. If you do have a faith, this author never tries to lure you away from it but offers Buddhist techniques as something to use alongside your own traditions. The latter part of the book has some interesting ideas ideas about untangling the knots in the unconscious, your own and the collective unconscious. It finishes with some rather lovely breathing meditations.

[Chrissy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book answered a ton of questions for me. It gave some really good examples of how you can pray for something and it can appear that you don't have an answer. Or why some prayers appear to be answered and others are not. The explanation gave me a lot of peace of mind.
Thich Nhat Hanh also gave a really good Buddhist analysis of the "Our Father" prayer. I could hang with much of it but there were some parts of the explanation that really went far over my head. I will read it again some day and see if it makes any more sense.

[Paula Cappa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hanh writes a marvel of a book on the effectiveness of prayer both from a Buddhist perspective and a Christian perspective. Quite an achievement. He asks, “Does prayer work?” and “What about the will of God?” The energies of mindfulness, meditation, and Christianity are well presented. There is much to admire in this Buddhist monk and his wise understanding of East and West philosophies and spiritual practices. He reminds us that prayer in Buddhism is reciting the sutra. But also cites the Christian The Lord’s Prayer and Buddhist prayer parallels, which I found fascinating and beautiful. Especially Christ and forgiveness aligned with the Buddha and bodhisattvas for help in forgiving others and ourselves. Chapter 4, The Role of Prayer in Medicine is a must read for anyone struggling with health issues—recognizing the health of the mind is just as significant as the health of the body and reflect each other. Hanh is quite convincing on spiritual healing to heal the body, using “store consciousness, and “collective consciousness” as paths to peace and happiness. Mindfulness meditation, of course, is the key and needs to be a daily practice. Hanh’s “tangled knots” of identity complexes introduces the reader to a vast exploration of ten areas of consciousness that directly affect our health (‘greed, hatred, ignorance, conceit, suspicion, attachment to the body as the self, extreme views and prejudices, clinging to rights and rituals, craving for immortality, and craving to keep everything just as it is.’). He has a number of pages devoted to the “hungry ghost realm,” which are our temptations. Final chapter is meditation exercises, Buddhist prayers and gathas, all designed to nourish happiness and a peaceful mind. This book is certainly a prayer in itself. Highly recommended.

[LuchiLuch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Necesitaba esto, me encantó y me llegó al alma 🤲🏼📿













































Te quiero cariño 💞💛

[Glenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the way he can share his teachings and regardless of your faith practice or journey, it applies. Particularly like the concept of praying to (or I prefer through) your grandparents, or ancestors, and the idea that their cells are part of you. That connectedness is very powerful. Also, that no matter what our tradition, we all share the desire to unite with God.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the meditation practices in this book, they were simple and therefore easy to recall.

[Mike Minervini · Rating 4 out of 5]

Memahami makna doa bukan sekedar kata - kata, namum menyelaraskan tubuh, ucapan dan pikiran menjadi satu sehingga seluruhnya hadir tanpa kecuali.

[Les · Rating 5 out of 5]

I mean...it depends on where you're at of course, your practice, your link to/through or understanding of Buddhism, but - does he write bad books ever? None I've come across.

[Levi Pierpont · Rating 5 out of 5]

In only the way he can, TNH teaches about the universal concept of prayer, acknowledging what is central in all practices while noticing what is different for Buddhists, adherents of Abrahamic religions, and agnostics.

I read a negative review of this book which expressed frustration with the idea that TNH believes prayer works. Sorry, random reviewer, TNH is a religious person. Most religious people hold religious views, which are inherently metaphysical views. It’s exhausting to see the ways people (usually in the United States) try to bend and contort teachers in religious traditions to be as secular-minded as they are. Let these religious teachers be religious teachers. If you don’t want religion, don’t listen.

[Julia Bucci · Rating 5 out of 5]

"If we are practicing and we only pray for health, success, and good relationships, we are not yet an authentic practitioner. An authentic practitioner has to pray at a deeper level. We have ro practice in such a way that in our daily life we are able to have insight into the interdepedent nature of all beings. Our greatest desire as spiritual practitioners is to discover the essence of things and to be in touch with this essence."

[Haylee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This year I went to the oldest cathedral in America, overlooking the Mexican gulf. My mom kneeled with me and together we recited a Hail Mary and the Lord’s Prayer. It was my first attempt and she guided me from memory.

I hadn’t been able to put words to that moment until this book. There was a connection with god, my peers and myself. There was an emptiness that allowed all of us to be one while being separate. There was a presentness, driving out all fear. There was an essence of peace.

I resonated with the idea that prayer is not about asking and receiving. It’s about eventually getting to the question, what shall I do with my present moment—guide me lord!

Also I never thought about how almost every culture we have a record of, has a practice of prayer. So universal and compelled me to be more thoughtful about prayer. His simple approach made it all very clear!

[Christine Arella (nee Clack) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simple read. Practical advice.

[Konstantin · Rating 3 out of 5]

First, some context: I have had enough experience with various spiritual traditions to have benefited in some way from all of them, although it isn't always clear how certain words like "prayer" or "God" used by one tradition translate into my personal practice and daily experience let alone compare to the writings from a different tradition (like Buddhism, Advaita, etc). I originally borrowed the book from the library because I wanted to better understand what the "Buddhist" perspective on prayer is, and I believe that it did help a bit. Thich Nhat Hanh's book is based on a collection of talks that he gave at his monastery a number of years back, all related to this theme of prayer. Because it is based on a collection of his talks, the material is not presented in a systematic way as other Buddhist books, but rather in a more literary style - as if the book's content flowed as a conversation might. The perspective the book takes is to look closer at the common assumptions people may have about prayer: how it is done, what it's effect is, and the circumstances in which it is practiced across faiths. At some point in the book, after giving a foundation for his point of view, I noticed the author began to interchangeably use the word "meditation" for "prayer". This may be off-putting for someone who believes those two labels are referring to two different things. And I think that this is an important point that I hope people consider whether they choose to read the book or not: that ideas and concepts about things like "prayer" do not do the actual thing itself justice. I hope everyone has the chance to actually experience some of the things the author wrote about!

[Chanita]

Prayer as an inclusive, accessible practice that is not tied to a particular religious or spiritual affiliation... but rather can help anyone create a healthy life through the power of awareness and intention. Ultimately, author Thich Nhat Hanh presents prayer as more than just relaxation: is it a way to satisfy the basic human need to make a connection with something larger than our everyday self (the Universe!) :)

In order to understand why people pray, The Energy of Prayer examines the applications and effectiveness of prayer in Buddhist and other spiritual traditions. Arguing that prayer is not about asking some external force for what we need, but about creating an internal environment in which it is easier to get what we want, the book introduces several methods of prayer. These methods are meditative in nature and re-envision prayer... Included are visualization and breathing exercises as well as a rich sampling of prayers, chants, and invocations from the Buddhist tradition.
(adapted)

[Mark Robison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked Thich Nhat Hanh’s premise: After meeting with some Catholic nuns, two Buddhist nuns told him that it seemed like Christianity was easier than Buddhism because you just pray and put your faith in God whereas with Buddhism, you have to do everything yourself. So he wanted to examine prayer in a way that would help both Buddhists and those from prayer-using faiths. It was intellectually interesting to read how he reconciled prayer with Buddhism’s central tenet of seeking proof that an idea works. He concludes that prayer is merely the initial step with which to inspire action in the real world. If you’ve read much Thich Nhat Hanh, you can probably skip this one unless you’re a practicing Christian. There are good appendices with Buddhist practices that can be used like prayers — they’re available in other books, though. Also, beware of the fallacious introduction by Larry Dossey that erroneously claims scientific studies have proven that prayer can heal. No double-blind prayer study has ever done so. Grade: B+

[Carter West · Rating 3 out of 5]

TNH's characteristic calm and sweetness shine all the way through this little manual. He offers sound teaching regarding the context of authentic prayer, observing that prayer involves our whole body when done wholly, and that true prayer requires the backing of a commitment to practice one's faith. The book is especially strong in bringing to bear a mystical perspective on the spirit of prayer. Monks and nuns have for centuries known that prayer involves the mutual participation of God and the believer in each other's lives; TNH helps make known that vital and astonishing intimacy, available to ordinary believers. Add the very practical appendices presenting meditation exercises and Buddhist gathas, and we can enjoy a valuable addition to the burgeoning literature on spirituality.

But TNH fails to avoid a major beartrap bedeviling interfaith dialogue, particularly between East and West. Therefore when we create the energy of mindfulness, we are able to pray."

[Artemisia Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Energy of Prayer is an inspiring, practical and deeply examined look at prayer and mediation and is full of many pearls of wisdom from the beautiful heart and spirit of Thich Nhat Hanh. Indeed, every one of this author's books that I've read has been like a blessing, and too, a beautiful reminder that a heart of compassion and true peacefulness of the mind are not only attainable, but are valuable and necessary personal goals, in a world where greed, excess and violence can so often seem to be the rule. And although the author speaks largely from his own background in Buddhist philosophy and spiritual practice, his words can be meaningful and inspiring no matter what one’s spiritual beliefs or practices.

[Gary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thich Nhat Hanh titles his book The Energy of Prayer, but this book is primarily about meditation, and in my mind prayer and meditation are two separate entities. For me, prayer is just talking with God and is not laborious. Whereas entering into a state of meditation requires considerable effort, in that respect I agree with Thich Nhat Hanh. He offers insights into the benefits of meditation, and at the very end of the book, he offers a few techniques on how to further your own meditative practice.

Keep in mind that this is from a Buddhist perspective, but even believers in One True God may benefit from some of his ideas and point-of-view.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is full of insight! It is the first book of Thich Nhat Hanh's I have read and I absolutely look forward to reading more of his books. "The Energy of Prayer" is a fantastic short read with several gems of knowledge sprinkled throughout. One of the things I love about this book in particular is that although he focuses mostly on Buddhism culture, the concepts are easily applied to any religion that believes in a Greater Force in the Universe. I also feel this book was a good starting point for me as I am discovering more about the Buddhism religion. I look forward to reading more of his books (and there are many).

[AttackGirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book.

Teach the children to fish so they will be able to feed themselves and their children and so it goes if now only we could teach everyone how to pray.

Did Jesus come from the eastern religions to teach the haters to not only forgive but to love.

Take a few moment to read and consider this book and it’s wisdom then share it with others in love.

Perhaps adding some science and the power of the energy force and recognition thereof now PROVED with the double slit experiment would encourage even the hardliners.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

i never really knew what prayer was or how it was supposed to work. thich nhat hanh writes clearly about meditation and the power of awareness and and intention. the author is a buddhist,poet and scholar and the reader is often reminded that 'prayer' is not religious but something that all human beings can benefit from when we look at it as something that helps us to hear our inner and higher selves.

[Kayleigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

As usual, Hanh has some very insightful observations about the mind, the spirit, and their union. Basically, this little book says that prayer and positive thought can help in medicine, in case of illness, hard times, or anything. It's almost like lovingkindness in prayer form, and I really liked that idea of sending positivity to people in other places. I will definitely add some of his meditations to my practice.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is really good and it's open my perspective of prayer. As a Buddhist I ever thought that prayer is useless since I believe that what will happen to me is depend on my action. I will responsible of my own karma. But now I realize that sometimes prayer is useful, yes it's not always work but at least it can strengthen your belief, hope and faith.
Hope I can finished this book by end of this year.

[R.K. Goff · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a sweet little book. It explains Thich Nhat Hanh's view of prayer, the various types he uses, and how it's closely related to the Christian understanding of the concept (a matter of debate, no doubt, but a very interesting read).

It has some very beautiful meditation/prayers in the appendix, and as always Hanh's style is calm and beautiful to read.

I would probably check it out from the library before deciding if I wanted to buy it, but it is worth reading.

[Garvin Goei · Rating 2 out of 5]

Maybe the most unrecommended Thich Nhat Hanh's book.

Hanh didn't mention anything scientific/empiric about prayer effect, only said that prayer is a form of mindfulness without told any proves of prayer.

Also, Hanh only talked about the unity of universe. We are same with the people we pray for, with the god, the Buddha, etc. I see it has not any benefit to the readers (or at least, to me).

I like Hanh's books, but this one is disappointing.

[Aa · Rating 5 out of 5]

These words speak to all people.

This is a wonderful book. It is filled with insight and wisdom. I read a passage every day. The words in this book speak to all people, and to all religions. Even atheists will find these words speak a universal truth. I often find myself thinking about the profound impact Thich Nhat Han has on my life. All I can say is a heartfelt "thank you" and pay his kindness forward.