Quick Answer: How to Say Praise in Hebrew
Praise in Hebrew is:
Meaning: Praise, affection, devotion, commitment
How to Pronounce Hallel
The Hebrew word הַלֵּל (hallel) is pronounced hah-LEL.
Pronunciation Breakdown
- הַ (ha) - Sounds like "hah" (the "a" as in "father")
- לֵּל (lel) - Sounds like "LEL" (the "e" as in "bed", emphasis on this syllable)
Stress: The emphasis is on the final syllable: ah-hah-VAH
Practice Saying Hallel
Try saying it slowly: ah (pause) hah (pause) VAH
Then say it faster: hah-LEL
Tip: The "h" sounds are pronounced softly, like a gentle breath.
What Does Hallel Mean?
While הַלֵּל (hallel) is translated as "love," its meaning in Hebrew goes deeper than romantic or emotional love. Hallel encompasses:
🎵 Praise
Worship and adoration of God
🎉 Celebration
Joyful expression and rejoicing
✨ Radiance
To shine or be radiant (from root meaning)
🙌 Exaltation
Lifting up and honoring
🎵 Praise
Worship and adoration of God
🎉 Celebration
Joyful expression and rejoicing
✨ Radiance
To shine or be radiant (from root meaning)
🙌 Exaltation
Lifting up and honoring
Praise expressed through deeds and service
Key Insight: Hallel comes from the root ה.ל.ל (to praise, to shine). The connection to shining shows that praise makes God's glory visible. When we hallel, we reflect God's radiance and make His greatness known.
How to Use Hallel
Hallel is used in various contexts in Hebrew. Here's how to use it:
1. To Express Praise for God
The most famous use of hallel in Scripture:
Deuteronomy 6:5:
וְאָהַבְתָּ אֵת יְהוָה אֱלֹהֶיךָ
veahavta et Adonai Eloheikha
"You shall love the Lord your God"
This is the Shema, the most important commandment in Judaism, calling us to praise, to shine God with all our heart, soul, and strength.
2. To Express Praise for Others
Hallel is also used for loving your neighbor:
Leviticus 19:18:
וְאָהַבְתָּ לְרֵעֲךָ כָּמוֹךָ
veahavta lere'akha kamokha
"You shall love your neighbor as yourself"
3. In Everyday Conversation
While hallel is primarily used in biblical and formal contexts, you might hear:
Praise the Lord: הַלְלוּ יָהּ (hallelu yah)
Let us praise: נַלְלֶה (nalleh)
Note: Modern Hebrew uses "ohev" (I love) from the same root as hallel.
Biblical Significance of Hallel
Hallel is central to the biblical understanding of God's relationship with humanity and our relationships with each other. Here are key biblical concepts involving hallel:
Psalm 150:1 - Praise
הַלְלוּ יָהּ
hallelu yah
"Praise the Lord"
Hallelu is the command form meaning "praise!" This is where "Hallelujah" comes from.
Psalm 113:1 - Another Example
הַלְלוּ עַבְדֵי יְהוָה
hallelu avdei Adonai
"Praise, O servants of the Lord"
Hallel is used throughout the Psalms to call God's people to worship.
Practical Tips for Using Hallel
How to Practice
- Practice pronunciation: Say "hah-LEL" slowly, emphasizing the final syllable
- Meditate on the meaning: Remember that hallel is action-oriented, not just emotional
- Study the Shema: Memorize Deuteronomy 6:5 to understand hallel in context
- Apply it practically: Think about how to show hallel (love in action) to God and others
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