Jesus Prayer

Meaning

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. This page keeps the translation close to the words and leaves larger spiritual interpretations to the tradition and teacher who hold them.

Where it comes from

This page places Jesus Prayer in a Christian reference context and identifies the lineage note as Philokalia / hesychast tradition. Christian prayers can differ between Greek, Latin, Syriac, and vernacular liturgical traditions, and the same prayer may appear in more than one authorized wording. The script and transliteration on this page are offered so a reader can recognize the phrase, not so a web page can settle every translation question. The source note points to the text or devotional setting associated with this entry. It is not a substitute for a church, prayer book, teacher, or the tradition in which you received the prayer. The plain meaning is descriptive and makes no promise about spiritual or personal outcomes. If your community uses another wording or response, that local form deserves priority.

Source noted for this entry: Philokalia / hesychast tradition

How to say it

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner

Read the phrase in 12 short units, keeping the syllables distinct rather than rushing the spaces. Transliteration is approximate. Listen to a trusted speaker from the relevant tradition when a precise pronunciation matters.

How it is practiced

This page does not assert a single required repetition count for Jesus Prayer. A practitioner may choose one recitation, a timed session, or a mala length that belongs to their own tradition and instruction. The counter's 108 unit is a measurement aid, not a claim that 108 is required here. Morning and evening are common times for a quiet practice, but the right time is the time that can be kept without displacing the obligations of your household or community. Some settings use a spoken voice, some a quiet voice, and some silent repetition. Keep the wording and pronunciation you have received, and check the source or a teacher when the practice has a specific sequence, initiation, or restriction.