Raised hands in prayer hold an important symbolic place; they represent not only an external gesture of worship but also reflect the inner state of the believer’s soul.

Embodying Faith: The Symbolism of Raised Hands in Prayer

Raised hands in prayer hold an important symbolic place; they represent not only an external gesture of worship but also reflect the inner state of the believer’s soul. This gesture symbolizes a sacrificial readiness, the expression of a sincere inner prayer, and support in the struggle against inner temptations.

For instance, one source describes in detail that “the raising of the hands, thanks to its deeply symbolic meaning, is one of the strongest means in prayer,” indicating its role in expressing a sincere appeal to God—when a person, aware of their own weakness, asks for support and healing ( link txt, page: 1922-1924).

Another text notes that “the raising of the hands signified the evening sacrifice, similar to the Passover lamb,” meaning that this gesture alludes to the memory of Christ’s sacrifice and symbolizes an unbreakable connection with His saving death, reflecting the purity of the soul and devotion to the Savior ( link txt).

It is also emphasized that the raising of the hands has ancient roots: “the raising of the hands before the coming of Christ was a prefiguration of His Crucifixion, which crushed the power of the devil,” once again attesting to its spiritual significance as an external expression of the inner battle against evil and the striving for light and salvation ( link txt, page: 1908-1911).

Thus, raising one’s hands in prayer is not merely a fixed form of worship; it is the language of the soul, demonstrating faith, genuine humility, and a readiness to embody spiritual transformation. Through this gesture, the believer expresses their inner sacrificial spirit, their yearning for God, and their confidence in overcoming personal weaknesses.

Supporting citation(s):
"But if 1500 years ago people already encountered... the raising of hands in prayer was the prerogative of hierarchs and elders" (source: link txt, page: 1922-1924).
"From this we see that the raising of hands signified the evening sacrifice, similar to the Passover lamb...

And don’t you keep your hands in your pockets during prayer?