"Pray the Devil Back to Hell" is a phrase often used in association with the movement and film of the same name. It refers to a nonviolent protest campaign led by women in Liberia to end the country's Second Liberian Civil War, which lasted from 1999 to 2003. This grassroots movement, predominantly composed of Christian and Muslim women, utilized their religious beliefs and practices as a powerful tool of resistance and resilience.
In this context, "pray" signifies not only religious prayer but also a collective act of spiritual strength, determination, and unity. It represents the women's resolve to appeal to a higher power for intervention in the conflict-ridden situation and to engage in peaceful activism simultaneously. "The Devil," symbolically representing the chaos, violence, and oppression prevalent during the war, is metaphorically "prayed back to Hell," implying a strong desire to eliminate the destructive forces and to restore peace, harmony, and justice in Liberia.
Moreover, "Pray the Devil Back to Hell" also refers to the acclaimed 2008 documentary by director Gini Reticker, which chronicles the story of these courageous women and their remarkable role in securing an end to the conflict. By employing nonviolent strategies such as mass sit-ins, silent protests, and diplomatic negotiation, they succeeded in compelling the warring factions to participate in peace talks, eventually leading to the resignation of the warlord and the restoration of democracy.
Overall, "Pray the Devil Back to Hell" stands as a powerful mantra encapsulating the profound impact of prayer, unity, and peaceful resistance in the face of adversity and conflict.
