What Does the 🙏 Praying Hands Emoji Mean?

Co-authored by Aly Rusciano

Last Updated: March 7, 2022 Fact Checked

Curious about what the 🙏 (praying hands) emoji really means? Also known as the folded hands emoji, this emoji can symbolize many things depending on context. We’ve put together an easy guide, so keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the 🙏 (praying hands) emoji and what it means.

Section 1 of 2:

🙏 (Praying Hands) Emoji Meanings

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Praying. A 🙏 is most commonly known as a religious symbol. It is a sign of hope and spirituality. Someone may use this emoji after sending well wishes or talking about their religious beliefs.^{[1]
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- “We are praying for a fast recovery 🙏💕”
- “Can’t wait for Sunday’s service! ✝️🙏”
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Gratitude. A 🙏 may be added to a thankful message to show appreciation. This symbol of hope says “please” or “thank you” in Japanese culture or “namaste” in Indian cultures. Because of this, 🙏 can be used when expressing everyday gratitude.^{[2]
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- “Beyond thankful for these guys 🥰🙏”
- “Blessed to have this view for morning yoga 🧘🙏🌳”
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A high-five. Your friend may send you a 🙏 when they’re proud of you. Since they’re not with you IRL, they can give you a virtual high-five. This usage is up for debate. Some people argue that the emoji shows two different people’s hands coming together for a high-five, while others believe they’re one person’s hands held together in prayer.
- “Proud of you dude 🙏”
- “We’re in this together! 🙏”
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A friendly greeting. In Japanese culture, a 🙏 can represent a polite “hello” or “goodbye.” This emoji symbolizes the act of bowing when meeting or leaving.
- “It’s so great to virtually meet you 🙏😃”
- “Have a good day! 😊🙏”

Section 2 of 2:

How to Use the 🙏 (Praying Hands) Emoji

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When you’re praying: If you’re sending an encouraging message or hopeful wishes, add a 🙏 to the end of your message. This shows that you’re praying or hoping for the best outcome. You can also use the 🙏 in this context when talking about religion.
- “I can’t believe this happened. It’s devastating 🙏💔”
- “I’m praying for you and your family. God will help guide you 💖🙏”
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When you’re grateful: Use a 🙏 when you’re showing appreciation or thanks. Maybe you're expressing gratitude for a friend, teacher, or relative. Add a 🙏 to your message to emphasize positive feelings.
- “Don’t know where I’d be without these guys ❤️🙏”
- “So thankful for the Class of 2021 🙏🎓🎉”
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When you would give someone a high-five IRL: Encourage a friend with a virtual high-five when they’re feeling low. The hand-slapping gesture can put anyone in a good mood, so use the 🙏 to send along some positive vibes! Throw it into a conversation where you would give out a high-five in real life.^{[3]
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- “That’s epic! Give me five, bro! 😆🙏”
- “This is fantastic 🙏”
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When you’re greeting someone: Send a 🙏 as a polite hello or even a goodbye. The praying hands emoji is a representation of a traditional Japanese greeting. Use this emoji to set a good impression and spread a little positivity.
- “Hi! My name’s Sally. It’s so nice to meet you 😊🙏”
- “I hope you have a great weekend 😄🙏”