Sayings

He that will learn to pray, let him go to sea

This page is about the saying "He that will learn to pray, let him go to sea"

Possible meaning:
The sea is supremely powerful, and can be a terrifying and awe-inspiring place.

Note:
pray (verb) = ask for help from God; give thanks to God | This saying may be more easily understood if rephrased as: "The person that wants to learn to pray should go to sea."

Origin: This quotation from Welsh poet George Herbert (1593 - 1633) - "He that will learne to pray, let him goe to Sea" - reflects seafarers' long-standing conviction that at sea we find the ultimate in awe and terror.

Quick Quiz

"He that will learn to pray, let him go to sea" suggests that the sea

a. is quiet and calm, like a church

b. is the home of God

c. can make you feel extreme fear
a) is quiet and calm, like a church b) is the home of God c) can make you feel extreme fear

See Saying of the Day today

Contributor: Josef Essberger