modlitwa

Modlitwa is a practice of communication with the divine, a deliberate act of spoken, written, or mental speech directed to God, gods, saints, or other spiritual beings. It expresses praise, contrition, gratitude, intercession, and requests. It is not bound to a single method or setting, but is shaped by religious tradition and personal belief.

Forms of modlitwa vary: liturgical prayers recited in services, personal or family prayers, silent contemplation, or meditative practices, and communal prayers in groups. Common elements include reverence, confession, gratitude, supplication, and praise. Routines such as set prayers, prayer beads, or specific times of day are common in many traditions.

In Poland, modlitwa has a strong connection to Roman Catholic practice, including daily personal prayers, participation in the Mass, the Rosary, novenas, and Marian devotions; other denominations and religions present in the country also practice prayer according to their traditions. Worldwide, prayer exists in many forms across Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and indigenous traditions, each with its own languages, styles, and rituals.

Etymology and usage: the Polish noun modlitwa derives from the verb modlić się, meaning to pray. The concept remains central to spiritual life for individuals and communities, functioning as a means of seeking guidance, forgiveness, inspiration, and alignment with a transcendent dimension.