What does the word 'hallelujah' mean?

As an exclamation, the word hallelujah, sometimes rendered alleluia, is a way to give God the honor or glory. Literally, it means "praise ye YAH (Yahweh)" in Hebrew. Today we might say "Hallelujah" or "Praise the Lord!"

In the wedding supper of the Lamb, described in Revelation 19, a great multitude comes before the throne into the presence of God and says "Hallelujah." It is a declaration of victory—God's enemies have been vanquished. There is realized victory! God is to be praised and honored, to receive glory. The chapter points out God's power and victory, His sovereignty, and His eternal interaction with His people. "Hallelujah" expresses that all the honor and thanksgiving and credit are to God.

Composer George Frederic Handel's renowned Messiah evokes the wedding supper of the Lamb in its Hallelujah Chorus—a rousing, emotional, outpouring of worship that foreshadows even greater worship Christians will experience in heaven.



Related Truth:

What is it to praise God?

How can we bless God? What does it mean to bless God?

What is the importance of praising God?

Why does giving thanks to God matter?

How can I worship the Lord in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24)? What is true worship?


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