The Hebrew Words for Praise

The Seven Hebrew Words for Praise

There are seven primary Hebrew words for “praise” in Scripture, each revealing a distinct posture, sound, or action of worship. Together, they form a rich tapestry of how God invites His people to minister to Him.

Here’s a detailed look at each word and its spiritual significance:

1. Halal (הָלַל)

• Meaning: To shine, boast, rave, celebrate, or be clamorously foolish.

• Usage: This is the root of halleluYah —“praise Yah.”

• Scriptural example: “Praise (halal) Him with the timbrel and dance…” (Psalm 150:4)

• Spiritual tone: Joyful abandon. It’s the exuberant praise of David dancing before the Ark.

2. Yadah (יָדָה)

• Meaning: To extend the hand in thanksgiving or confession.

• Usage: Often associated with surrender or public acknowledgment.

• Scriptural example: “O give thanks (yadah) unto the Lord…” (Psalm 107:15)

• Spiritual tone: Open-handed worship—declaring trust and gratitude, raising the hands in worship..

3. Todah (תּוֹדָה)

• Meaning: A thanksgiving choir or offering of thanks.

• Usage: Praise offered before the answer comes—faith-filled gratitude.

• Scriptural example: “Enter His gates with thanksgiving (todah)…” (Psalm 100:4)

• Spiritual tone: Sacrificial praise, often in the midst of trial.

4. Shabach (שָׁבַח)

• Meaning: To shout loudly or triumphantly.

• Usage: A victory cry, proclaiming God’s power.

• Scriptural example: “Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise (shabach) You.” (Psalm 63:3)

• Spiritual tone: Bold declaration—praise that silences the enemy.

5. Barak (בָּרַךְ)

• Meaning: To kneel or bless God as an act of adoration.

• Usage: Reverent, quiet worship.

• Scriptural example: “Bless (barak) the Lord, O my soul…” (Psalm 103:1)

• Spiritual tone: Humble submission—bowing low before the King.

6. Zamar (זָמַר)

• Meaning: To make music, sing praises with instruments.

• Usage: Often used in temple worship.

• Scriptural example: “Sing praises (zamar) to Him with the harp…” (Psalm 147:7)

• Spiritual tone: Artistic praise—melody as ministry.

7. Tehillah (תְּהִלָּה)

• Meaning: A spontaneous song of praise.

• Usage: The word used in “You inhabit the praises (tehillah) of Israel.” (Psalm 22:3)

• Spiritual tone: Spirit-led worship—songs birthed from the heart.

Summary

Each word reflects a different dimension of praise—from loud celebration to quiet reverence, from musical worship to faith-filled thanksgiving. In Hebrew thought, praise is not just verbal; it’s physical, emotional, and spiritual. It’s a full-bodied response to the holiness and goodness of God.

Let's get our PRAISE on!!

Blessings,

Leisa