Below is an article in English about the “40 Days Prayer” (often associated with Filipino Catholic traditions, such as the 40-day mourning period or “Pasiyam” extending to 40 days), written with a Tagalog-speaking audience in mind.
The 40 Days Prayer: A Filipino Tradition of Faith and Remembrance
Sa kulturang Pilipino, ang panalangin ay hindi lamang isang gawain kundi isang paraan ng pagpapakita ng pananampalataya, pagmamahal, at paggalang—lalo na pagdating sa pag-alala sa mga mahal sa buhay na pumanaw. One deeply rooted tradition among Tagalog-speaking Catholics is the “40 Days Prayer,” a period of devotion that holds spiritual significance. Whether it’s the mourning period after a loved one’s passing or a special time of reflection, this 40-day practice reflects the Filipino spirit of resilience, family, and hope in eternal life. Let’s explore the meaning and customs behind this sacred tradition.
The Roots of the 40 Days Prayer
Ang tradisyon ng 40 araw na panalangin ay may malalim na ugat sa Bibliya at sa pananampalatayang Katoliko. Sa Lumang Tipan, 40 days often symbolized a time of preparation or purification—tulad ng 40 araw ng baha sa panahon ni Noe o ang 40 araw na ginugol ni Moises sa bundok. Sa Bagong Tipan, si Hesus ay nag-ayuno ng 40 araw sa disyerto bago simulan ang Kanyang ministeryo. For Filipinos, this number carries a sacred weight, often linked to the belief that the soul of the departed journeys to its final resting place during this time.
In the Philippines, the 40-day prayer is most commonly observed after someone’s death. It begins with the “Pasiyam” (a nine-day novena) and culminates on the 40th day, known as “Karanawan” or “Araw ng 40,” marking the end of the mourning period. This practice blends Catholic teachings with Filipino customs, creating a unique expression of faith.
The 40 Days Prayer in Filipino Homes
Kapag may namatay sa pamilya, nagsisimula ang 40 araw na panalangin bilang isang communal act of love and remembrance. Here’s how it typically unfolds:
The First Nine Days (Pasiyam): Matapos ang libing, ang pamilya at mga kaibigan ay nagtitipon araw-araw para sa novena—isang serye ng dasal tulad ng Rosaryo, Litanya, at mga personal na panalangin para sa kaluluwa ng yumao. Sa mga bahay sa probinsya o barangay, madalas itong sinasamahan ng pagkain at kwentuhan, na nagpapakita ng “bayanihan” spirit.
Daily Devotion Until the 40th Day: Kahit tapos na ang Pasiyam, patuloy ang pagdarasal sa bahay o sa simbahan. Some families light candles or place flowers by a small altar with the departed’s photo, praying for their soul’s peace.
The 40th Day Celebration (Karanawan): Sa ika-40 araw, isinasagawa ang isang espesyal na pagdiriwang. May misa para sa kaluluwa ng yumao, at pagkatapos ay may salu-salo. Ito ang simbolikong “pagpapakawala” ng kaluluwa patungo sa Diyos, at para sa pamilya, ito rin ang pagtatapos ng matinding dalamhati.
The prayers often include the “Panalangin para sa Kaluluwa” (Prayer for the Soul), asking God to grant eternal rest: “Panginoong Diyos, ipagkaloob Mo po ang walang hanggang kapayapaan sa kaluluwa ng aming mahal sa buhay…” This devotion reflects the Filipino belief in the power of prayer to bridge the living and the dead.
Why 40 Days Matters to Filipinos
For Tagalog-speaking Filipinos, the 40-day prayer is more than a ritual—it’s a testament to our values. It shows “pagmamalasakit” (compassion) for the departed, ensuring their souls are guided to Heaven through our prayers. It also strengthens family bonds, as relatives come together to mourn, pray, and heal. Sa gitna ng lungkot, ang 40 araw ay nagbibigay ng pag-asa—na ang kamatayan ay hindi katapusan kundi simula ng buhay kasama ang Diyos.
This tradition also mirrors the Filipino resilience seen in facing life’s trials. Just as Jesus emerged victorious after 40 days in the desert, the 40-day prayer reminds us that love and faith endure beyond loss.
A Prayer for All Seasons
While the 40 Days Prayer is most associated with death, some Filipinos also use this timeframe for other spiritual purposes—like fasting during Lent or preparing for a big life event. Sa anumang paraan ito gamitin, it’s a reminder of the importance of patience, perseverance, and trust in God’s timing.
A Call to Prayer
Kaya’t sa susunod na marinig mo ang tungkol sa 40 araw na panalangin, isama mo ito sa iyong puso’t isip. Whether you’re praying for a loved one’s soul or seeking strength for yourself, this tradition invites us to pause, reflect, and lift our voices to God. Sa bawat “Ama Namin” at “Aba Ginoong Maria,” we honor our faith and our Filipino heritage.
Magdasal tayo nang buong puso, dahil sa 40 araw na ito, hindi lamang kaluluwa ang naliligtas kundi pati na rin ang ating mga sarili. Amen.
