lotu
The Tongan word for pray is lotu.
The verb lotu is used broadly to mean praying, but also encompasses the act of conducting a religious service or worshiping.
Meaning: to talk to God (verb)
Did you know?
- In certain Tongan songs, 'lotu' is used metaphorically to describe a deep, sincere plea or an earnest request to anyone, not just to God.
- In a traditional Tongan social setting, the act of lotu often begins and ends a formal meal or meeting to signal the transition between spiritual and secular time.
- While 'lotu' means to pray, a person who is praying is often described as being '‘i lotu’', which literally means 'in prayer'.
Examples in context
- ʻOku ou lotu fakamālō.I am praying with thanks.
Example conversation
Mele and Tevita are talking before a meal.
- MeleTevita, lotu kitaki kimu'a.Tevita, pray a little first.
- Tevita'Oku ou lotu leva.I am praying now.
- MeleMālō, 'oku ou feinga ke lotu foki.Thanks, I want to pray too.
- TevitaKai leva, kuo lotu pine.Eat now, we have already prayed.
