הָלַל: The Heart of Hallelujah
halal (haw-lal'): halal: To praise, to boast, to shine, to celebrate, to glory
This week’s Hebrew word is halal, the root behind the joyful “hallelujah” that fills so many of our favorite worship songs and prayers. You’ll notice it especially in Psalms 111–118—the “Hallel” or Hallelujah Psalms—traditionally sung at Passover, and again in Psalms 146–150, the big finale of praise at the end of Israel’s hymnbook. Halal shows up 96 times in the Psalms!
Halal isn’t just about private praise; its primary purpose is to call God’s people into joyful, vocal, and public celebration of who He is and all He has done. It means to praise, to shine, to boast or lift up—spotlighting God’s character and mighty works so that others can’t help but join in. In these psalms, halal moves from a personal call to corporate response, drawing the whole congregation (and all creation) into one great song of worship.
When you say or sing “hallelujah,” that adds the "yah" to the end- for Yahweh. That is the covenant name of our God- not just any God but the God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, David, etc. This is the covenant name of our promise(covenant)-keeping God! So when you say this word, you’re not just repeating a word—you’re echoing a centuries-old invitation to praise the one TRUE God!
Next time “hallelujah” escapes your lips, remember: you’re joining the ancient psalmists in spotlighting God’s goodness with every bit of joy and voice you can muster!
Scriptures where we find "Halal":
1 Chronicles 16:25 — "and greatly to be praised; He also is to be feared "
Psalm 111:1 — “Praise the LORD! I will give thanks"
Psalm 150:2 — "Praise Him for His mighty deeds;"
