Do You Know How to Pray? The Different Types of Biblical Prayers

Types of Prayer by Category

1. Verbal Prayers

Spoken Prayer

Silent Prayer

Chanting

Singing

2. Written Prayers

Journaling

Writing Prayer Letters

Creating Prayer Lists

3. Liturgical Prayers

Reciting Set Prayers (e.g., the Lord's Prayer, Hail Mary)

Reading Psalms or Scriptures

Following Prayer Books

4. Meditative and Contemplative Prayers

Centering Prayer

Christian Meditation

Lectio Divina (Divine Reading)

Mindfulness Meditation

Zen Meditation

Transcendental Meditation

5. Intercessory Prayers

Praying for Others

Prayer Chains

Prayer Groups

6. Thanksgiving Prayers

Gratitude Prayers

Blessings

7. Praise and Worship

Praise Songs

Worship Services

Adoration

8. Movement-Based Prayers

Bowing

Prostration

Walking Meditation (e.g., Labyrinth Walking)

Tai Chi

Yoga

9. Mantra Prayers

Repeating a Sacred Word or Phrase (e.g., "Om", "Jesus Prayer")

Rosary Prayers

10. Contemplative and Silent Prayers

Sitting in Silence

Quaker Silent Worship

11. Nature-Based Prayers

Praying in Nature

Earth-Centered Rituals

12. Guided Prayers

Using Prayer Apps

Following Guided Meditations

13. Devotional Practices

Novenas

Rosaries

Daily Devotions

14. Fasting and Prayer

Combining Fasting with Prayer

15. Cleansing Rituals

Purification Ceremonies

* Ritual Baths