I of course don't hold any of the ultimate answers to these questions; but at the very least I can share the worldview I've developed regarding the relationship between deity and humans via prayer, with the hope that you might gain something from it toward your own understanding of the MOE work.
Divinity can be all-present, all-knowing, and all-loving* and still be directable (or at least petitionable), and having good reasons for prayer is important. Think of parents who are wise, loving, and fully involved in their children's development without being controlling. They want their child to build independence and strength of character, and so they focus on giving their child the best environment in which to learn and grow, rather than just giving them the easiest life possible. This means, generally, a hands off approach. Of course, if the child ever asks the parents for help, they will consider it-- but they might not always actually choose to give any. It depends on several factors, including:
(1) What level of communication the child has managed to develop (2) Whether the child is really trying their best even before parental intervention comes into play (3) The outcome they feel is best at the end of the day, balancing the child's wishes or needs with those of other children
For instance, if the child has moved out on their own and suddenly calls asking for extra funds, the parents are going to want to know some more details before sending cash. Even if they already heard the details from someone else, they want to hear their child's version in their own words. Why is it necessary in this case? What steps is the child taking to deal with the situation already on their own? Etc.
Likewise, with prayer (and I presume with MOE work), the gods are not magical candy dispensers. Rather, they are timeless forces of perfection upholding the universe. They won't get involved without an invitation anymore than a grade schooler's parents get involved with every small disagreement on the playground. While they are aware that such things happen, they won't directly get involved in such events unless the child or a teacher comes to them and asks for some involvement. So it is, I believe, with the gods.
When you make a request for a specific outcome, yes, it's expressing your idea rather than "Divine Will". But just as a parent is delighted-- in the right circumstances-- when their child comes to them for help with a problem at school, so, I believe, the gods are fine with us asking for particular outcomes (as long as we are not *demanding* them). In both cases, depending on the details, the higher authority may sometimes judge that it is better not to get involved; but sometimes they will be delighted to help out when asked, and see it as an opportunity for teaching, bonding, and growth.
Anyway, that's my simple perspective, and I hope it helps you in some small way! ____________ *(though not all deities necessarily share all of those qualities!)
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
branchandroot
(no subject)
Date: 2023-04-30 03:45 pm (UTC)Divinity can be all-present, all-knowing, and all-loving* and still be directable (or at least petitionable), and having good reasons for prayer is important. Think of parents who are wise, loving, and fully involved in their children's development without being controlling. They want their child to build independence and strength of character, and so they focus on giving their child the best environment in which to learn and grow, rather than just giving them the easiest life possible. This means, generally, a hands off approach. Of course, if the child ever asks the parents for help, they will consider it-- but they might not always actually choose to give any. It depends on several factors, including:
(1) What level of communication the child has managed to develop
(2) Whether the child is really trying their best even before parental intervention comes into play
(3) The outcome they feel is best at the end of the day, balancing the child's wishes or needs with those of other children
For instance, if the child has moved out on their own and suddenly calls asking for extra funds, the parents are going to want to know some more details before sending cash. Even if they already heard the details from someone else, they want to hear their child's version in their own words. Why is it necessary in this case? What steps is the child taking to deal with the situation already on their own? Etc.
Likewise, with prayer (and I presume with MOE work), the gods are not magical candy dispensers. Rather, they are timeless forces of perfection upholding the universe. They won't get involved without an invitation anymore than a grade schooler's parents get involved with every small disagreement on the playground. While they are aware that such things happen, they won't directly get involved in such events unless the child or a teacher comes to them and asks for some involvement. So it is, I believe, with the gods.
When you make a request for a specific outcome, yes, it's expressing your idea rather than "Divine Will". But just as a parent is delighted-- in the right circumstances-- when their child comes to them for help with a problem at school, so, I believe, the gods are fine with us asking for particular outcomes (as long as we are not *demanding* them). In both cases, depending on the details, the higher authority may sometimes judge that it is better not to get involved; but sometimes they will be delighted to help out when asked, and see it as an opportunity for teaching, bonding, and growth.
Anyway, that's my simple perspective, and I hope it helps you in some small way!
____________
*(though not all deities necessarily share all of those qualities!)