INNER ROOM
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus provides profound guidance on the nature of true prayer, emphasizing sincerity and humility. He instructs His followers in Matthew 6:6: “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
The term “inner room” in this verse, derived from the Greek word ‘tamieion,’ refers to a private, enclosed space within a house, often used for storage or seclusion. This “inner room” symbolizes a place of solitude where one can connect intimately with God, away from distractions and the public displays of religiosity that Jesus critiques earlier in the chapter. The focus here is on a private, sincere communion with God, contrasting with the Pharisees’ habit of praying in public for the sake of being seen by others (Mt 6:5).
Jewish Tradition of Prayer in Biblical Times
In biblical times, the practice of private prayer was integral to Jewish spirituality. Public prayers were common in synagogues and at the Temple in Jerusalem, but private prayer held a special place in religious life. Jewish homes, often simple with few rooms, would sometimes include a small, secluded space that could serve as a prayer room. This could be an upper room or a storage area where individuals could retreat for personal prayer. The practice of retreating to a quiet place for communion with God is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, as reflected in Psalm 91:1: “You who live in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty…” (Ps 91:1).
The “inner room” that Jesus speaks of may have been an actual small room within the home, or it could refer more broadly to any space where one could pray without interruption. This tradition parallels the Jewish custom of creating an altar or sacred space within the home, signifying the presence of God in daily life.
Relevance of the “Inner Room” for Modern Christians
In today’s world, where life is often fast-paced and noisy, the concept of the “inner room” remains deeply relevant. The “inner room” can be interpreted both as a physical space – like a quiet corner in a home or a designated prayer room – and as a metaphorical space, a state of mind where one retreats from life’s distractions to connect with God. The principle is to engage in sincere, humble, and private prayer, free from external pressures.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church highlights the importance of private prayer, stating: “The choice of a favorable place is not a matter of indifference for true prayer. For personal prayer, this can be a ‘prayer corner’ with the Sacred Scriptures and icons, in order to be there, in secret, before our Father. In a Christian family, this kind of little oratory fosters prayer in common” (CCC 2691). This reinforces the idea that creating a designated space for prayer helps Christians focus on their relationship with God, away from the distractions of everyday life.
REFLECTION
The call to pray in our “inner room” is a timeless message that invites Christians to prioritize their relationship with God through moments of solitude and reflection. Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:6 encourages believers to seek a genuine, private relationship with God, characterized by sincerity and humility. This “inner room” is not just a physical location but a spiritual sanctuary where we meet God authentically.
For modern Christians, finding and dedicating a time and place for personal prayer is crucial, whether it be a literal space in the home or a specific time in the daily routine. The key is to approach prayer with the same sincerity and focus that Jesus taught, knowing that God sees and values what is done in secret.
As we strive to deepen our relationship with God, let us embrace the wisdom of Jesus’ teaching. May we all find our “inner room,” where we can encounter God personally and allow His presence to transform our lives.