Why are tears a goal of prayer?

Question

They are numerous examples that point to the fact that having tears during prayer is a goal and also certainly a praiseworthy thing.

But why is that? Are all aspects of davening worthy of tears- meaning is it something to ‘cry’ about, for example the first ברכה of the עמידה. (Will crying in such an instance enhance the ברכה etc.?) Surely when we are beseeching God to heal the sick for example that can trigger an emotional response - but that is not the question.

_{if the question is unclear to you, type some questions in the comments and I’d love to clarify}

Answer 1

My own theory:

Some of the emotions that generate tears are helplessness and vulnerability.

(See here “Recent psychological theories of crying emphasize the relationship of crying to the experience of perceived helplessness.”)

We believe that HKB”H is directing the world; we may do our hishtadlus but He is in control.

When we realise that we stand before HKB”H and are so-to-speak in contact with Him, it is totally appropriate that we abandon our self-confidence and hence come to tears.

Therefore it is the very encounter with HKB”H that brings about the emotion that generates the tears.

These tears of dependence are the goal in prayer.