Jesus Didn’t Speak English — He Spoke Aramaic.
The words we know today as the “Lord’s Prayer” have traveled a long journey — through Greek, Latin, and countless English translations. But originally, Jesus spoke Aramaic, a language rich in poetic nuance, symbolic layers, and deep spiritual resonance.
To offer a more holistic perspective, I’ve gathered a selection of different versions of this sacred prayer — including translations that return to its original Aramaic roots.
Take a moment. Breathe. Let yourself feel the difference — and the depth — of these timeless words.
Enjoy the resonance. Rediscover the meaning.
THE ARAMAIC PRAYER OF JESUS
translated from Aramaic by Saadi Neil Douglas-Klotz of the Sufi Order of the West
The „Aramaic Prayer of Jesus“ offers a fresh and deeply spiritual perspective on the well-known „Lord’s Prayer,“ restoring its original poetic and mystical depth. Unlike traditional English translations based on Greek or Latin texts, this version returns to the language Jesus actually spoke – Aramaic – a Semitic language rich in layered meaning, sacred metaphor, and inner resonance.
In this rendering, each line becomes a meditation, inviting the reader into a more embodied and heart-centered experience of the prayer. Rather than conveying rigid dogma, it opens pathways to intimacy with the Divine through breath, sound, and silence – resonating strongly with both Sufi mysticism and universal spirituality.
Saadi Neil Douglas-Klotz, a renowned scholar and spiritual teacher of the Sufi Order of the West, brings to the translation a profound sensitivity to both linguistic nuance and the contemplative traditions that unite East and West. His work invites seekers of all paths to rediscover the voice of Jesus as a mystic and teacher of unity, compassion, and inner awakening.
THE ARAMAIC PRAYER OF JESUS
O, Birther of the Cosmos, focus your light within us – make it useful
Create your reign of unity now
Your one desire then acts with ours,
As in all light,
So in all forms,
Grant us what we need each day in bread and insight:
Loose the cords of mistakes binding us,
As we release the strands we hold of other’s guilt.
Don’t let surface things delude us,
But free us from what holds us back.
From you is born all ruling will,
The power and the life to do,
The song that beautifies all,
From age to age it renews.
I affirm this with my whole being.
TRADITIONAL MATTHEAN VERSION
Roman Catholic
Our Father who art in Heaven,
Hallowed be thy name;
Thy kingdom come
Thy will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
And forgive us our trespasses
As we forgive those who trespass against us;
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
TRADITIONAL ENGLISH VERSION
Protestant Orientation
Our father, who art in Heaven,
Hallowed be thy name;
Thy kingdom come,
Thy will be done.
On earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
And forgive us our debts
As we have forgiven our debtors;
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
And the power,
And the glory,
Forever.
