Prayer by Sarah Louisa Forten Purvis
The work explores the theme of prayer as a universal and sacred practice that connects the soul to a higher power. It emphasizes the freedom that prayer provides, allowing individuals to express their deepest desires and seek solace. The act of prayer is portrayed as a means of liberation, where one can find comfort and strength, particularly in times of suffering. The poem highlights the significance of prayer for those who are oppressed, specifically addressing the plight of enslaved individuals. It suggests that through prayer, they can transcend their immediate circumstances, momentarily forgetting their pain and fear. The act of worship becomes a source of hope and empowerment, enabling them to envision a future filled with joy and freedom. The imagery used conveys a sense of divine presence and support, reinforcing the idea that prayer is a powerful tool for spiritual connection and emotional relief. The work ultimately underscores the importance of faith and the ability to communicate with the divine, regardless of one's earthly struggles. It serves as a reminder of the strength found in spiritual practices and the hope they can inspire in the face of adversity.
By Sarah Louisa Forten Purvis · First published 1857 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Inspirational Literature, African American Literature · 169 words
First lines
This sacred right none are denied, Which makes the soul to Christ allied; Man bends the heart and bows the knee, And knows in prayer that he is free.
Yes, free to ask of Him, whate'er The fainting heart alone can cheer; To worship at that holy shrine, Where beams thy Spirit, Lord, divine.
And Afric's children they are free, To breathe their vows, their prayers to Thee; With thought of future joy and gain, The slave forgets his grief and pain; Forgets awhile his slavish fear; Forgets -- that fetters bind him here; And in that sweet communion rest His hopes, his fears -- for he is blest.
What this Textopian page supports
Prayer is listed on Textopian as a poem by Sarah Louisa Forten Purvis, dated 1857 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Sarah Louisa Forten Purvis
- Date: 1857 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Inspirational Literature, African American Literature, Social Justice Literature, Lyric Poetry
- Length: 169 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Religious Poetry — The poem focuses on themes of prayer, spirituality, and the relationship between the individual and the divine.
- Inspirational Literature — The work aims to uplift and inspire readers through its themes of hope and freedom found in prayer.
- African American Literature — The poem addresses the experiences and struggles of African Americans, particularly in the context of slavery and spiritual resilience.
- Social Justice Literature — The themes of freedom and the human spirit in the face of oppression highlight social justice issues.
Tags
memoir · autobiography · spirituality · religion · Christianity · faith · prayer · devotion · personal growth · self-discovery · inspiration · motivation