Alleluia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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alleluia

[ˌæl.əˈluː.jə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Interjection

religious expression

Alleluia is a shout of joy or praise, often used in religious contexts to express delight in God. It is particularly associated with the Christian tradition during worship, representing a triumphant proclamation of faith.

Synonyms

Joyful praise, hallelujah, praise the Lord.

Examples of usage

  • The congregation sang 'Alleluia' during the Easter service.
  • He shouted 'Alleluia!' after hearing the good news.
  • They raised their voices in 'Alleluia' at the summit of their celebration.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Religious Significance

  • In Christianity, it is often sung during worship to express joy and celebration, especially during Easter.
  • Some faiths reserve its use for special occasions like the resurrection of Jesus, making it a symbol of hope.

Music and Culture

  • Many famous composers, including Handel, wrote musical pieces that feature 'alleluia,' showcasing its importance in choral music.
  • The word appears in various musical styles, from classical to contemporary praise music.

Literature

  • 'Alleluia' is often referenced in literature as a symbol of joy or exultation, appearing in poetry and prose.
  • In some stories, it is used to reflect moments of beauty or divine intervention.

Psychology

  • Expressions of joy, like saying 'alleluia,' can trigger positive emotions and improve mood through social bonding.
  • Researchers found that shared expressions of happiness can strengthen community ties and create a sense of belonging.

Origin of 'alleluia'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'alleluia' comes from the Hebrew phrase 'Hallelu Yah,' which means 'Praise the Lord.'
  • It has been used in Christian liturgy since ancient times, particularly during Easter celebrations.

The word 'Alleluia' has its roots in the Hebrew expression 'Hallelu Yah,' which means 'praise the Lord.' The term combines 'Hallelu,' the imperative form of the verb 'to praise,' and 'Yah,' a shortened form of 'Yahweh,' the Hebrew name for God. The word was adopted into Greek as 'Alleluia' during the early Christian era and became a significant part of Christian liturgy. It is often used in church music and is commonly chanted or sung during worship services, particularly in the context of Easter celebrations. Its introduction into Christian rituals helped to uplift the congregation and express profound joy and compliments to God, cementing its place in both religious and cultural expressions of praise throughout history.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,811, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.