Topical Encyclopedia The Passover meal, also known as the Seder, is a central ritual in Jewish tradition commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. Integral to this celebration are the songs and hymns that are sung, which hold deep theological and historical significance. These songs are collectively known as the "Hallel," a Hebrew term meaning "praise."The Hallel Psalms The Hallel consists of Psalms 113-118, which are recited or sung during the Passover meal. These psalms are expressions of praise and thanksgiving to God for His deliverance and faithfulness. They are traditionally divided into two sections during the Seder: the "Lesser Hallel" (Psalms 113-114) sung before the meal, and the "Great Hallel" (Psalms 115-118) sung after the meal. Psalms 113-114: The Lesser Hallel Psalm 113 begins with a call to praise the Lord: "Hallelujah! Give praise, O servants of the LORD; praise the name of the LORD" (Psalm 113:1). This psalm emphasizes God's majesty and His care for the humble and needy. Psalm 114 recounts the miraculous events of the Exodus, highlighting God's power over nature: "When Israel departed from Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people of foreign tongue, Judah became God’s sanctuary, and Israel His dominion" (Psalm 114:1-2). Psalms 115-118: The Great Hallel Psalm 115 contrasts the living God with lifeless idols, urging trust in the Lord: "Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the glory, because of Your loving devotion, because of Your faithfulness" (Psalm 115:1). Psalm 116 is a personal thanksgiving for deliverance from death, expressing love and gratitude to God: "I love the LORD, for He has heard my voice—my appeal for mercy" (Psalm 116:1). Psalm 117, the shortest chapter in the Bible, is a universal call to praise: "Praise the LORD, all you nations! Extol Him, all you peoples!" (Psalm 117:1). Finally, Psalm 118 is a triumphant song of victory and thanksgiving, often associated with the Messiah: "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone" (Psalm 118:22). Theological Significance The singing of these psalms during the Passover meal serves as a reminder of God's past deliverance and His ongoing faithfulness. For Christians, the Hallel takes on additional significance as it is believed that Jesus and His disciples sang these hymns during the Last Supper, which was a Passover meal (Matthew 26:30, Mark 14:26). This connection underscores the fulfillment of the Passover in the person and work of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). Conclusion The songs sung at the Passover meal are not merely traditional hymns but are profound expressions of faith, hope, and redemption. They connect the worshiper to the historical acts of God and point forward to the ultimate deliverance through Christ. These songs continue to be a vital part of both Jewish and Christian liturgical traditions, celebrating God's mighty acts and His steadfast love. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 26:30And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives. Nave's Topical Index Mark 14:26 Library The Memorable Hymn. "And when they had Sung an Hymn, they Went Out ... Letter xxii. To Eustochium. The Saints' Privilege and Profit; The Axe at the Root --A Testimony against Puseyite Idolatry The Pilgrim's Progress Resources What is the meaning of the foxes in Song of Solomon 2:15? | GotQuestions.orgWhy does Solomon refer to his wife as his sister (Song of Solomon 4:9)? | GotQuestions.org What is the lily of the valley (Song of Solomon 2:1)? | GotQuestions.org Song: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Select Readings: Song of Moses when Pharaoh and his Army Were Overthrown Song: Impersonation of the Church (?) Song: Solomon Wrote One-Thousand and Five Song: Spiritual, Singing of, Enjoined Song: Sung at the Passover Meal Related Terms Dedication-song (1 Occurrence) |
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