Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning:The term "Hosanna" is derived from the Hebrew phrase "הוֹשִׁיעָה נָּא" (Hoshia Na), which means "Save, please" or "Save now." Over time, it evolved into an expression of praise and adoration, particularly in a liturgical context. In the Greek New Testament, it is transliterated as "ὡσαννά" (hōsanna). Biblical Usage: "Hosanna" is prominently featured in the New Testament during the Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, an event celebrated on Palm Sunday. The crowds greeted Jesus with shouts of "Hosanna," recognizing Him as the promised Messiah and King. This acclamation is recorded in all four Gospels, highlighting its significance in the narrative of Jesus' final week before His crucifixion. In Matthew 21:9 , the crowd exclaims, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" This declaration acknowledges Jesus as the descendant of David, fulfilling the messianic prophecies. The phrase continues, "Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" This echoes Psalm 118:25-26, a psalm traditionally associated with the Feast of Tabernacles and other Jewish festivals, where the people would cry out for salvation and blessing. Mark 11:9-10 records a similar scene: "Those who went ahead and those who followed were shouting: 'Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!' Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest!" Here, the acclamation is linked to the anticipation of the restoration of David's kingdom, a central hope in Jewish eschatology. In John 12:13 , the crowd took palm branches and went out to meet Jesus, shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the King of Israel!" The use of palm branches, a symbol of victory and triumph, underscores the messianic expectations of the people. Liturgical Significance: In Jewish tradition, "Hosanna" is associated with the Hallel, a series of psalms (Psalms 113-118) recited during major festivals such as Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot. The plea for salvation in Psalm 118:25, "Save us, we pray, O LORD!" , is a central element of this liturgical practice. During the Feast of Tabernacles, the "Hoshanot" processions involve the recitation of prayers for salvation and deliverance, further embedding "Hosanna" in the fabric of Jewish worship. Theological Implications: For Christians, the use of "Hosanna" during Jesus' entry into Jerusalem is rich with theological significance. It reflects the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah, the one who brings salvation. The acclamation is both a plea for deliverance and a proclamation of praise, encapsulating the dual nature of Jesus' mission as Savior and King. The cry of "Hosanna" also foreshadows the salvation that Jesus would accomplish through His death and resurrection. While the crowds may have anticipated a political deliverance, the true nature of Jesus' kingship and the salvation He offered was spiritual and eternal. Conclusion: The term "Hosanna" thus serves as a profound expression of both hope and fulfillment, bridging Jewish liturgical tradition and Christian messianic expectation. Its use in the Gospels during the Triumphal Entry underscores the recognition of Jesus as the awaited Savior, fulfilling the promises of the Old Testament and inaugurating the kingdom of God. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 21:9,15And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that comes in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest. Nave's Topical Index Mark 11:9,10 John 12:13 Library Dialogue ii. --The Unconfounded. Resources What is Palm Sunday? | GotQuestions.orgDoes the Bible describe Jesus being worshiped? | GotQuestions.org Topical: Definitions ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Hosanna: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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