Begging Quote by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o
““Prayer after all is a form of begging and it was the cornerstone of all religions. Ask and it shall be given. Everyday followers of the different faiths, whether named after Jesus or Muhammad or Buddha, get on their knees and beg god for this or that. They pray that their Lord and Master will hear their cry. Yes, prayers are blessed. Begging is blessed. Among the followers of Buddha, the holiest are known by their vows of poverty, and they are sustained in the path of holiness by begging. Didn't Buddha himself renounce the trappings of wealth for a life and begging and purity?””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Religion and Poverty, 2005
Prayer is portrayed as a form of begging, suggesting that religious devotion often mirrors dependence on divine favor.
In simple terms: Prayer can be seen as begging.
Key Takeaway
Examine the motivations behind your prayers.
Themes
religion
dependence
poverty
spirituality
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal prayer
- charitable giving
- community support
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
theology
human need
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you view prayer as request or relationship?
- Can gratitude replace begging?
A Different Perspective
Not all religious practices are purely about begging; many foster community.
