What Does It Mean to Praise the Lord?

Understanding the Biblical Hebrew Words for Praise

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."

- Proverbs 18:21

Praise is more than just words—it's a powerful spiritual act that transforms our hearts and circumstances. The Bible says in Proverbs 18:20-21 that "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." When we choose to praise God, we are speaking life into our situations and aligning ourselves with His will.

Seven Hebrew Words for Praise

1. Yadah (יָדָה)

Meaning: To throw, cast, or extend the hands in worship

This is praise with extended hands, acknowledging God's power and sovereignty. It's an act of surrender and thanksgiving.

2. Halal (הָלַל)

Meaning: To shine, boast, celebrate clamorously

This is where we get "Hallelujah!" It's exuberant, demonstrative praise that isn't concerned with dignity—it's pure celebration of who God is.

3. Barak (בָּרַךְ)

Meaning: To kneel, to bless

This represents praise through humility and reverence. When we "bless the Lord," we're acknowledging His supreme authority with a bowed knee.

4. Shabach (שָׁבַח)

Meaning: To shout, to address in a loud tone

This is triumphant praise, declaring God's victory with a loud voice. It's praise that proclaims and testifies.

5. Zamar (זָמַר)

Meaning: To make music, to touch the strings

This is musical praise, using instruments and melody to worship God. It engages our creative gifts in worship.

6. Towdah (תּוֹדָה)

Meaning: Extension of the hand in thanksgiving

This is praise that thanks God in advance for what He's going to do. It's faith-filled thanksgiving before seeing the answer.

7. Tehillah (תְּהִלָּה)

Meaning: To sing hallal, a new song

This is spontaneous praise, singing a new song from the heart. It's where the Spirit moves us beyond prepared words into pure worship.

The Power of Praise in Our Lives

When we understand these different expressions of praise, we realize that worship isn't limited to quiet reverence—it encompasses our whole being. Through praise, we:

  • Declare God's goodness over our circumstances
  • Shift our focus from problems to His promises
  • Create an atmosphere where God's presence dwells
  • Exercise the power of life that's in our tongue
  • Build faith and encourage others in their journey

"Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord!"

- Psalm 150:6