Revelation 5:8 proof that saints hear our prayers?

[jamil_joseph02]

Revelation 5:8 “And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.”

does revelation 5:8 explain that saints can indeed accept or hear our prayers in heaven?

 

[Ben_F]

To me it’s proof that there are Saints and that they pray. Pray for who? The only ones that need prayer are the living and the dead.

 

[COPLAND_3]

I don’t think it is proof enough to settle the argument with non-Catholics because it can be interpreted to mean the prayers from those on earth. While to me I see it as evidence that the saints in Heaven pray for us, but not hardcore proof that will settle a debate. I believe that it is reference to the prayers of both, the saints on earth and in Heaven.

 

[jamil_joseph02]

if the verse does not prove then, where in the bible does it say we must call on saints? Can saints in heaven hear our prayers?

 

[COPLAND_3]

if the verse does not prove then, where in the bible does it say we must call on saints? Can saints in heaven hear our prayers?

I would not try to find that one passage that spells it out as the proof text, this is a doctrine that requires articulation of other parts of Scripture combined with Tradition. There are other parts of our Faith that are Biblical, but they are fully understood by numerous passages and not just one. The Trinity, real presence in the Eucharist and other Sacraments, etc.

I would rely upon how the Church as articulated the Scriptures on this doctrine, here are two places in the Catechism on it

scborromeo.org/ccc/p123a9p5.htm#954

scborromeo.org/ccc/p4s1c2a3.htm#2683

 

[Melkite_Sword]

Revelation 5:8 “And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.”

does revelation 5:8 explain that saints can indeed accept or hear our prayers in heaven?

yes, but you underlined the saints on earth (us) rather than the twenty four elders, offering up our prayers to God. The twenty four elders represent God’s people in heaven, the 12 apostles and 12 patriarchs, they’re the saints interceding in heaven.

Peace and blessings