Prostration

Etymology

Middle English prostrat, from Anglo-French, from Latin prostratus, past participle of prosternere, from pro- before + sternere to spread out, throw down

• Date: 14th century

Definitions

• 1 : stretched out with face on the ground in adoration or submission; also : lying flat
• 2 : completely overcome and lacking vitality, will, or power to rise <was prostrate from the heat>
• 3 : trailing on the ground : procumbent <prostrate shrubs>

Description

Prostration is the placement of the body in a reverentially or submissively prone position. Major world religions employ prostration either as an act of submissiveness to God or gods, or as a means of embodying reverence for a noble person, persons or doctrine. Within various cultures and traditions, prostrations are similarly used to show respect to civil authorities and more accomplished masters. The act is thus often an important part of religious, civil and traditional rituals and ceremonies.

Many religious institutions use prostrations to embody the lowering, submitting or relinquishing of the individual ego before a greater spiritual power or presence.[1]