The practice of folding one’s arms during prayer within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a physical expression of reverence and humility. This posture, while not explicitly commanded in scripture, has become a customary way to demonstrate a submissive attitude before God during personal and communal prayers. It is a visible sign of respect and a desire to focus inwardly on the spiritual communication taking place.
This physical act serves to minimize distractions and promote a sense of calm and focus during prayer. It is a practice adopted over time and integrated into the faith’s culture. The folded arms can be viewed as a symbolic gesture of relinquishing personal control and submitting to divine will. This posture reinforces the purpose of prayer, which is to seek guidance, express gratitude, and build a relationship with God. Furthermore, the consistency of this practice across the community fosters a sense of unity and shared devotion among members.
