Prayer for reconciliation of Those in Conflict

Is There a Prayer Against Evil People, Envy, Enemies, and Ill-Wishers?

Being weak and distant from God, we often fear envious looks, evil people, workplace enemies, or simple ill-wishers, seeking protection from their influence. However, our greatest and only true protection is the Lord. When we constantly repent for our sins and strive to remain close to our Creator, nothing can harm us under His protection—He Himself shields us from all evil and hostility. But to truly understand our need for God, we must begin praying!

For those searching for the "strongest" or "protective" prayers against enemies, envy at work or home, ill-wishers, gossip, or an unjust boss or mother, the best advice is to read the Akathist to the Mother of God, "The Softening of Evil Hearts." This Orthodox prayer is addressed to the Theotokos, who endured much suffering in Her earthly life and therefore understands our struggles against cruelty and hostility. With Her, our prayers to the Lord become more sincere and powerful.

What Do We Pray for Before the Icon "The Softening of Evil Hearts"?

The Akathist to the Theotokos before the icon "The Softening of Evil Hearts", also known as "The Seven Arrows", is recited for various needs. It is primarily used to: soften relationships between those in conflict and bring reconciliation; Humble proud hearts, not only of "enemies" but also our own; Help women cultivate gentleness and femininity; Help men control anger and irritability; Increase love among people and eradicate the pride that causes division.

Orthodox Christians in Bulgaria have been praying the Akathist in unison for many years. At the same time, Orthodox believers worldwide join in prayer every Wednesday at 2:30, 8:30, 14:30, or 20:30 Moscow time. You can choose any convenient time to join this spiritually beneficial collective prayer!

How to Pray for Reconciliation and Forgiveness?

When relatives or colleagues are in conflict, when we harbor deep grievances, when quarrels occur and reconciliation is crucial (especially with a loved one), or when family arguments persist (between parents, with a daughter, between spouses, siblings), praying for love to increase is essential!

The best prayer for reconciliation in all such cases is the Akathist to the Theotokos, "The Softening of Evil Hearts."

A Prayer Against Offense, Pride, Vanity, and for the Gift of Humility

The greatest passions within a person are pride and vanity, which the deceiver uses to lead us to ruin. These sins cannot be eradicated by human effort alone. The only way to overcome them and attain true humility is through God’s help. By praying the Akathist to the Theotokos before the icon "The Softening of Evil Hearts," we ask that through Her intercession, the Lord may help us overcome resentment, hatred, pride, and grant us true humility. Such serious spiritual petitions to God are best offered in unity with others! Praying together for the same issue, reciting the Akathist with many Orthodox brothers and sisters in Christ, and submitting names for commemoration at the Resurrection Skete in Bulgaria strengthens the power of our prayers.