Church Worship as a Journey to Heaven
Did St. Ephrem the Syrian use arrow prayers?
Q962 · The Jesus Prayer or the Arrow Prayer
The Nisibene Hymns ( Carmina Nisibena ) of St. Ephrem the Syrian295 are characterized by having harmonious, rhythmic stanzas that are suitable for church gatherings. Usually, each stanza is followed by a refrain that is sung with a special melody and can be prayed by anyone during their communal as well as personal worship, to help him offer his prayers with a spirit of hope and joy, and feel the divine presence. These are similar to arrow prayers or the Jesus Prayer, in that they represent a cry to God.
The Fathers cited
- St. Ephrem the Syrian