Apocryphal prayer

What it is

An apocryphal prayer is a folk religious text that mimics the structure of official church prayers while containing non-canonical material. These texts are found in collections known as zagovory, which are spells or incantations. They blend bookish origins with oral tradition, often distorting difficult passages to make them accessible to common people. The texts serve as protective charms or medicinal aids, functioning as amulets rather than just devotional readings. They are considered part of Folk Orthodoxy, a broader category that includes canonical prayers used in non-traditional ways. The sacred status of the words themselves is what grants them power, regardless of their original theological meaning.

Where it comes from

These prayers originated from the intersection of written ecclesiastical literature and oral folk tradition. Many are excerpts from popular apocrypha, such as the New Testament Apocrypha of King Avagar, which was compiled by Bishop Philip Stanislav in Bulgaria. This collection served as a protective talisman among Southern Slavs. Other sources include lists of sacred names of God and the Virgin Mary, which were circulated among Eastern Slavs. The texts often retain features of written language, leading to distortions when passed down orally. Some versions are free translations into spoken language, while others maintain the genre form of a prayer but take on the characteristics of zagovory.

How it is done

The practice involves reciting specific texts or wearing them as physical objects. Texts are often copied onto paper and kept in the house or worn with a body cross. Recitation is common before going to bed as a general protective measure. In some traditions, the text is rewritten by individuals with sacred status, such as Orthodox priests or Muslim clerics, to enhance its effectiveness. The endings of these prayers often specify the trouble they protect against, such as storms or beasts. The act of speaking or possessing the text is believed to create a barrier against evil forces or illness.

Tools and materials

The primary tools are the texts themselves, often written on paper. These are frequently combined with physical amulets like body crosses. Specific symbols, such as the first letters of the names of the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ, are carved above doors, windows, or grain storage areas to prevent evil spirits from entering. The materials are simple, focusing on the content of the words rather than complex ritual objects. The text acts as the tool, with its placement and possession being key to its function.

What it is for

Apocryphal prayers are primarily used for protection and healing. They are believed to save the wearer from enemies, beasts, storms, and sickness. Specific texts target particular dangers, such as fever or drowning. The purpose is apotropaic, meaning they are intended to turn away harm. They are also used for general safety and spiritual well-being. The belief is that the sacred nature of the words provides a shield against chaos and evil forces. People seek these prayers for immediate relief from danger or as a preventive measure in daily life.

Who does it

The practitioners are typically ordinary households who recite or wear the prayers. In some Southern Slavic traditions, the texts must be rewritten by individuals with sacred status, such as priests or clerics, to be effective. This highlights the importance of authority in the transmission of the text. The prayers are integrated into daily life, used by anyone seeking protection or healing. There is no formal training required for the layperson, but the role of religious figures adds a layer of legitimacy to certain versions of the texts.

Peoples and places

These prayers are found across Eastern and Southern Slavic cultures, including Belarus, Poland, Bulgaria, and Serbia. Among Eastern Slavs, the 'Our Lady's Dream' prayer is dominant and revered alongside the Lord's Prayer. In Southern Slavic regions, the Abagar collection plays a significant role. Catholic and Orthodox traditions both utilize these texts, though the specific variations and emphases differ. The texts reflect a shared cultural heritage where folk beliefs and Christian doctrine intertwine. Regional differences are evident in the specific stories included and the methods of use.

What people believe

The underlying belief is that sacred words have inherent power to influence the spiritual world. The names of God and the Virgin Mary are considered intolerable to evil forces. The texts are seen as declarations of belonging to the Christian world and coming under heavenly protection. Chaos and evil are countered by order and sacred history. The efficacy of the prayer lies in its connection to divine events, such as the life of Christ. Believers hold that reciting or possessing these texts creates a spiritual defense mechanism against misfortune.

When it is done

The prayers are used in various contexts, including daily routines and crises. They are often recited before sleep for protection during the night. Specific texts are used during storms or when encountering dangerous animals. The 'Tale of the Twelve Fridays' links fasting on specific days to avoiding dangers like sinking in rivers or meeting robbers. The timing is flexible, driven by need rather than a fixed calendar, though some practices are tied to specific days of the week or seasons.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Scholars view these prayers as part of Folk Orthodoxy, a blend of official religion and local custom. They note that the texts often distort canonical material to fit folk needs. Researchers highlight the role of written sources in shaping oral traditions, particularly through collections like Abagar. The study of these texts reveals how religious ideas are adapted and localized. Scholars also examine the linguistic features of the prayers, noting the mix of ecclesiastical and vernacular language. The focus is on understanding the social and cultural functions of these texts within Slavic communities.

Compare and confuse

Apocryphal prayers are distinct from canonical church prayers, which have strictly defined uses. While canonical prayers are universal, apocryphal prayers are tailored to specific folk needs. They are related to zagovory, which are more explicitly incantatory. The texts share similarities with other European folk traditions that use numbers and lists for protection, such as the 'catechism' style texts found in Western Belarus. However, the specific Slavic context and the integration of Christian apocrypha set them apart.

Law and persecution

They appear to be accepted as part of traditional culture without significant legal restriction. The texts are preserved in libraries and studied by scholars, indicating a level of institutional acceptance. There is no evidence of suppression or conflict with authorities regarding these practices.

Today

Apocryphal prayers continue to be part of folk tradition in Slavic regions. They are preserved in manuscripts and oral histories. Modern interest in Folk Orthodoxy has led to scholarly study and documentation of these texts. The practices remain relevant to those who value traditional protective measures. The texts are seen as a link to ancestral wisdom and religious identity. Their survival reflects the enduring appeal of combining faith with practical magic.

Questions people ask about Apocryphal prayer

Good reading and sources

• Apocryphal prayer on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data