The lifting of hands, particularly the lifting of the palms toward heaven, is a sign associated with prayers of petition (see Psalm 63:4; Psalm 141:2).1 This gesture also indicates earnest prayer of lamentation and supplication. They must ask God to fill their hands, for they cannot do so themselves.2
19 “Arise, cry out in the night, at the beginning of the night watches! Pour out your heart like water before the presence of the Lord! Lift your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint for hunger at the head of every street.”