Pray in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “prayamen, prayer, say grace, worship” is an important aspect of spiritual and communal gatherings in the New Zealand Deaf community. It expresses the act of praying or showing reverence, often used during meals or worship services. This sign reflects the cultural and spiritual values deeply rooted in both Deaf and wider New Zealand society.

How to Sign “Prayamen, Prayer, Say Grace, Worshipkarakianoun; Verb” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (palm facing down).
2. Position your hand in front of your chest, with your fingertips approximately at chin height.
3. Bring your hand down slightly and then move it forward in a gentle, outward motion as if offering something.
4. Maintain a sincere facial expression to convey the meaning of reverence or gratitude.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use an appropriate facial expression, which is crucial in NZSL for conveying meaning.
• Using a fist instead of a flat handshape, which changes the sign’s meaning.
• Rushing the movement, making it hard for others to understand the sign.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “prayamen” is more focused on the outward gesture of offering and grace, while in ASL, the sign may have a different handshape and movement. This highlights the unique characteristics of NZSL influenced by local culture and practices.

Related Signs

• Worship – The act of showing reverence, often used in religious contexts.
• Grace – The term used during meals to express gratitude.
• Thank You – A sign expressing gratitude, often used in conjunction with prayer.
• Blessing – A sign referring to a prayer for divine favor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can say, “We pray before meals” using the sign for “prayamen” to convey the action of praying.

Are there regional variations for this sign across NZ?

While the sign is generally consistent, some may use slightly different movements or facial expressions depending on their local Deaf community.

What is a similar sign to “prayamen”?

The sign for “blessing” is closely related, as both convey spiritual meaning.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and facial expression are correct. Watching video demonstrations can also be very helpful.

Can I use this sign in casual conversations?

While it’s primarily for spiritual contexts, using it in casual conversations about meals or gatherings can show cultural understanding.

Is this sign used in te reo Māori contexts?

Yes, many signs in NZSL incorporate te reo Māori influences, reflecting the bilingual nature of New Zealand.