How to Pray
How to Pray
Psalm 145: To Pray "in Truth"
 
"G-d is near to all who call to Him - to all who call to Him in truth." (Ps. 145:18)

What does it mean to call to G-d "in truth"?

 
What does it mean to call to G-d "in truth"?


This phrase describes prayer that is sincere and from the heart. However, this refers not only to how we should pray. Even more, it indicates for what we should pray.


Falsehood is transitory and fleeting. Truth, on the other hand, is eternal and enduring. The World to Come is called "the World of Truth," reflecting its eternal nature.


We call out to G-d 'in truth' when we pray, not for the fleeting and insignificant, but for that which is true and eternal. Prayer in truth aspires to uncover the inner meaning of our existence, the very essence of our lives. "Return us, our Father, to Your Torah. Draw us near, our King, to Your service" (from the Amidah prayer). When we pray to find our purpose in life and our path to serve G-d, such a prayer is an authentic reflection of the soul's inner desires.


G-d answers prayers that are 'in truth,' prayers that express our true inner will. As the psalm continues: "He fulfills the will of those who revere Him" (145:19).

(adapted from Olat Re'iyah , Rav Avraham Yitschak HaKohen Kook, zt"l)