When praying, what does ‘Amen’ mean? Do you have to say it at the end of a prayer? Many Christian believers brought up in the Christian faith often say amen after a blessing, sometimes a sermon, after praying, or after a reading of the Holy Gospels. What is the meaning of amen and where does it come from?
What Does Amen Mean?
The term ‘amen’ is found throughout the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. Historians tell us that the term dates back to the time of Abraham. At its most simple definition, amen is a term often used by Christian believers at the end of a prayer. It expresses one’s faith and belief that the prayer has been heard by God.
The meaning of amen has also been used as an affirmation not only of the belief that a prayer or supplication will be heard by God, but also in the hopes that the request of one’s prayer will not only be heard, but answered.
What does amen mean exactly? The term is found in numerous instances in the books of the Old Testament, and is still currently used in Jewish and Christian worship as well as in personal prayer scenarios.
When reading the Old Testament books, you’ll discover that the word ‘amen’ is used much like a declaration along the terms of ‘so let it be’ or ‘so be it’ or ‘let it come to pass’. The term is also used most often at the conclusion of a prayer but can be used following other liturgical readings and in a variety of circumstances.
The term ‘amen’ is of ancient Hebrew origin, found throughout the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. Scholars believe that the root letters of the word – emunah – signify trusting or believing. In more modern times, ‘amen’ is also a word that has several additional interpretations or connotations that convey perseverance and resolve as well as dedication and loyalty.
While the term ‘amen’ is commonly heard during church services, what about times when you want to pray alone? Do you have to say ‘amen’?
Does Saying Amen After Praying Make Your Prayer Stronger?
Does saying amen after praying make that prayer stronger or more meaningful? If you don’t say it, does that mean your prayer won’t be heard? It should be noted that using the term ‘amen’ does not ensure that you will receive a blessing or that your prayer will be answered in the way you expected. God is all-powerful and all-knowing. As Jesus told us on the Sermon on the Mount, God the Father knows what we need before we do. (Matthew 6:8).
A person can pray and believe with their entire heart and soul in God the Father and His son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Saying ‘amen’ at the end of a prayer when given personally, in public, or in church, doesn’t affect the intention of your prayer. The term ‘amen’ is often used as a confirmation that you have understood what you prayed for, whether it’s a blessing, a request for help, greater strength and fortitude, or increased faith. In other words, it confirms that you believe in the power of God and His ability to answer your prayers.
If your prayers aren’t answered in the way you expected, does that mean your faith isn’t strong enough? No. It just means that sometimes our prayers are answered in ways we never expected. God directs our paths in life. Sometimes people pray for something that doesn’t mesh with God’s own plans for us, whether it’s today, tomorrow, or years in the future.
After Praying, Do You Have to Say Amen?
What does amen mean when used at the end of a prayer? Many use the term ‘amen’ to indicate the ending of a prayer. Saying amen after praying isn’t a rule. The Bible doesn’t specifically tell us that we need to use the term after a prayer. In less formal religious settings, such as when praying alone, you can say amen or something else that indicates that your prayer is over.
Consider the Sermon on the Mount, when Jesus Christ himself offers us an example of how we should pray, in the Lord’s Prayer (Luke 11:2-4):
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us day by day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”
In the books of Matthew and Luke, the Lord’s Prayer as given by Christ don’t use exactly the same wording. In some versions of the Bible, the term ‘Amen’ is added at the end of the prayer, and in some it is not. Many different translations of the Bible come from the original ancient texts written in Hebrew and Greek to modern English readers, so it’s not surprising that some words are slightly different. Yet it’s important to remember that the purpose of prayer is to offer thanks to God for what He has given us, as well as communicating with Him of our needs or desires on a personal and heartfelt level.
Many people close their prayers with things like “Thank you for listening, God,” or “In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray.” Remember that it is your faith and belief and trust that your words that give strength to your prayers. It is through that faith that you know your prayer will be heard by God. Your belief makes your prayers most meaningful.
God knows what’s in your heart. He knows whether you’re being honest with Him when you pray. Praying with respect is always recommended, of course, but your prayers don’t have to be formal or structured in nature. Speak from your heart. God does want to hear what’s on your mind. He wants us to thrive and flourish under His guidance.
So what does amen mean? At its foundation, it’s a word that personifies your trust, faith, and belief that your prayer has been heard.
