I understand you're looking for reasons why an author might claim prayer is a waste of time. Here are some common arguments, which may or may not reflect the specific author you have in mind:
Arguments Based on God's Omniscience/Omnipotence:
* God Already Knows: The argument here is that if God is all-knowing (omniscient), God already knows your needs, desires, and problems. Therefore, telling God these things through prayer is redundant and unnecessary.
* God's Will is Immutable: If God is all-powerful (omnipotent) and has a pre-determined plan, prayer cannot change that plan. God will do what God will do, regardless of how much you pray. Praying for a specific outcome is therefore futile.
* Intervention is Unnecessary: God is already aware of suffering and injustice in the world. If God wanted to intervene, God would have already done so. Prayer, therefore, is not a catalyst for divine action.
Arguments Based on Lack of Empirical Evidence:
* No Measurable Effect: Some argue that there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that prayer leads to tangible results. Studies on the efficacy of prayer have often been inconclusive or have shown no significant difference between those who are prayed for and those who are not.
* Confirmation Bias: People may attribute positive outcomes to prayer, even when those outcomes could be explained by other factors. This is confirmation bias – the tendency to seek out or interpret information that confirms pre-existing beliefs.
Arguments Based on Practical Concerns:
* Time Could Be Better Spent: Time spent in prayer could be used for more productive activities, such as helping others, working towards solutions to problems, or engaging in personal growth.
* Psychological Dependence: Relying on prayer as a primary coping mechanism can lead to passivity and a failure to take responsibility for one's own life. It can create a dependence on a supernatural entity rather than developing inner strength and resilience.
* Prayer can prevent you from seeking tangible solutions to real-world problems If prayer offers you comfort, you may continue the prayer instead of searching for practical ways to solve the situation.
Important Considerations:
* Different Conceptions of Prayer: It's important to consider the author's definition of prayer. Are they referring to rote recitations, petitions for specific outcomes, or a more contemplative and personal form of communication with the divine? The arguments against prayer may be more applicable to some forms than others.
* The Author's Worldview: The author's perspective on religion, spirituality, and the nature of reality will heavily influence their views on prayer. Are they atheist, agnostic, or do they subscribe to a different religious or philosophical system?
* Nuance is Key: Even those who are critical of prayer may acknowledge that it can provide comfort, reduce stress, and foster a sense of community for some people. However, they may still argue that these benefits do not justify the belief that prayer has a supernatural effect.
Ultimately, whether or not prayer is a "waste of time" is a matter of personal belief and philosophical perspective.