Hallelujah

Hallelujah (הַלְּלוּיָהּ‎) is a Hebrew phrase meaning “Praise the Lord.” Hallelu is a plural imperative form of the Hebrew verb “to praise,” and Yah is the shortened form of God’s name, “Yahweh.” “Praise the Lord” is often used as a call to worship before a service.

“Hallelujah” was widely used even in the Old Testament era, appearing most frequently in the book of Psalms. Since the Psalms are songs of worship for the Israelites, they often begin with “Hallelujah” (Praise the Lord) to invite the congregation to join in song and praise. Long before Christ’s birth, Jews scattered throughout the world who didn’t speak Hebrew still used a transliteration of this phrase in their synagogue services. In the New Testament, after the birth of Jesus Christ, “Hallelujah” was also used in ceremonies of praise and adoration. It appears four times in the book of Revelation (19:1, 3, 4, 6), in verses describing the saints in heaven. Therefore, churches began using this phrase in their rituals and hymns very early on. Since “Hallelujah” is an expression of joy, it is particularly common during Christmas and Easter.

“Hallelujah” is one of two words that Christians all over the world understand (the other is “Amen”). This is because every language’s Bible has retained the transliterated form of these two words. They are naturally used directly in the prayers and praises of all churches. So, no matter what language or dialect a Christian speaks, if they say “Hallelujah” (or “Amen”) anywhere, people will know you are a Christian.

The Bible records:

[Psalm 104:35] Let sinners be consumed from the earth, and let the wicked be no more! Bless the Lord, O my soul! Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)

[Revelation 19:1] After this I heard what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, crying out, “Hallelujah! (which means “Praise the Lord”) Salvation and glory and power belong to our God.”

[Psalm 106:47-48] Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise. Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting! And let all the people say, “Amen!” Praise the Lord!