Pronunciation Guide: hahl-lay-loo-EE-ah

Basic Definition

Strong’s G239: ἁλληλουϊά (hallēlouïa) is a transliterated Hebrew phrase meaning “Praise Yahweh” or “Praise the LORD.” It combines the Hebrew imperative הַלְלוּ (hallelu, “praise ye”) with יָהּ (Yah, the shortened form of יהוה Yahweh). This sacred exclamation of praise appears only in Revelation 19, though it has a rich history throughout the Hebrew Scriptures, particularly in the Psalms.

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Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Interjection/Exclamation
• Origin: Hebrew הַלְלוּיָהּ (hallelujah)
• Primary Usage: Doxological formula in worship and praise
• Literary Context: Apocalyptic literature, particularly in scenes of heavenly worship
• Septuagint Usage: Transliterated from Hebrew rather than translated

ἁλληλουϊά Morphology:

• ἁλληλουϊά (transliterated form) – Praise Yahweh
  Note: As an interjection, this word is indeclinable and maintains the same form throughout its usage.

Origin & History

The term ἁλληλουϊά represents one of the rare instances in the New Testament where a Hebrew phrase is transliterated rather than translated into Greek. Its origins trace back to the Hebrew liturgical tradition, particularly in Temple worship and the Psalter. The word appears frequently in the Hebrew Bible, especially in what are known as the Hallel Psalms (Psalms 113-118) and the concluding Psalms (146-150).

In classical Greek literature, the term appears primarily in Jewish contexts, particularly in the Septuagint (LXX) where it serves as a header or conclusion to various psalms. The preservation of the Hebrew form in Greek text demonstrates the term’s sacred significance and its recognition as a universal expression of praise that transcends language barriers.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• A sacred exclamation of praise directed specifically to יהוה (Yahweh)
• A liturgical formula used in corporate worship
• A declaration of God’s worthiness to receive all praise
• An expression of jubilant celebration of God’s character and works

ἁλληλουϊά Translation Options:

• “Praise the LORD” – Most literal translation capturing both elements of the compound word
• “Hallelujah” – Transliteration preserved in most English translations due to its universal recognition
• “Praise Yah” – More direct translation of the shortened divine name
• “Praise be to the LORD” – Expanded translation emphasizing the imperative nature

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἁλληλουϊά appears exclusively in Revelation 19:1-6, where it forms part of the heavenly liturgy celebrating God’s justice and the establishment of His kingdom. This clustering of usage is significant as it connects the earthly liturgical tradition with the eternal worship in heaven.

The term’s appearance in Revelation is particularly meaningful as it occurs at a crucial juncture in the apocalyptic narrative, specifically in response to God’s judgment of Babylon and the anticipation of the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. This usage demonstrates both continuity with Jewish worship traditions and their eschatological fulfillment.

• “And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Hallelujah [ἁλληλουϊά]” Revelation 19:1
• “And again they said, Hallelujah [ἁλληλουϊά]” Revelation 19:3
• “And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, Amen; Hallelujah [ἁλληλουϊά]” Revelation 19:4
• “And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude… saying, Hallelujah [ἁλληλουϊά]” Revelation 19:6

Cultural Insights

In ancient Jewish worship, the Hallel (Psalms 113-118) was sung during major festivals, particularly at Passover. The tradition holds that these psalms were sung by the Messiah Jesus and His disciples at the Last Supper, as indicated in Matthew 26:30. This connects the earthly liturgical use of “hallelujah” with its ultimate fulfillment in the Messiah’s ministry and the heavenly worship depicted in Revelation.

The preservation of the Hebrew phrase in Greek text reflects a practice common in early Jewish and Christian worship where certain Hebrew terms (like “amen” and “hosanna”) were retained due to their sacred significance and universal recognition in worship contexts. This practice continues in modern worship across languages and cultures, making “hallelujah” one of the most widely recognized words in human language.

Theological Significance

The use of ἁλληλουϊά in Revelation presents a powerful picture of the continuity between earthly and heavenly worship. Its appearance at this crucial juncture in Revelation demonstrates that the praise of God’s people throughout history finds its ultimate fulfillment in the eternal worship of heaven. This connects the worship of ancient Israel, through the Church age, to the final consummation of all things in the Messiah.

The term’s combination of “praise” with the divine name emphasizes that true worship must be directed to the one true God, יהוה (Yahweh). Its use in Revelation specifically connects to God’s acts of judgment and salvation, showing that praise is the proper response to both God’s justice and His mercy.

The fourfold repetition of ἁλληλουϊά in Revelation 19 creates a pattern of intensifying praise that mirrors the structure of many psalms, suggesting that earthly liturgical patterns reflect heavenly realities.

Personal Application

When we say or sing “hallelujah,” we are participating in a tradition of praise that spans thousands of years and multiple cultures, joining our voices with countless believers who have used this same expression of praise. This should remind us that our worship is part of something much larger than our individual experience – it’s part of the eternal song of praise to God that will culminate in the scenes depicted in Revelation.

In our personal and corporate worship, the use of “hallelujah” should remind us that praise is not just an emotional expression but a declaration of God’s worthiness to receive glory. It calls us to consider whether our lives, not just our words, are offering praise to יהוה (Yahweh).

Related Words

• αἴνεσις (ainesis) – praise, commendation – A more general term for praise not specifically directed to God See G133
• δοξάζω (doxazō) – to glorify, honor, praise – Emphasizes the aspect of giving glory to God See G1392
• εὐλογέω (eulogeō) – to bless, praise – Focuses on speaking well of or blessing God See G2127
• ὑμνέω (hymneō) – to sing hymns, to celebrate in song – Specifically relates to musical praise See G5214

Did you Know?

• The word “hallelujah” appears in more languages than almost any other word, making it a nearly universal expression of praise that crosses cultural and linguistic boundaries.
• In the Dead Sea Scrolls, hallelujah formulas appear in numerous hymnic texts, showing its importance in Second Temple period worship and its connection to messianic expectations.
• Modern Hebrew speakers still use “hallelujah” (הללויה) in everyday speech to express joy or satisfaction, though its religious significance is always understood.

Remember This

ἁλληλουϊά stands as an eternal bridge between earth and heaven, connecting the praise of God’s people across all ages to the perfect worship that awaits us in His presence.