Praise
Category
Christian Life & Growth
Biblical Definition
The spoken and sung honoring of God in response to His character, works, and saving acts, expressed with joy, reverence, and gratitude.
Origin(s)
Hebrew: הָלַל / בָּרַךְ; Greek: αἰνέω
Transliteration
hālal; bārak; aineō
Literal meaning
to praise, boast, celebrate; to bless; to praise
Key Scripture(s)
Psalm 34:1; Psalm 103:1-2; Psalm 150:1-6; Luke 19:37-40; Hebrews 13:15; Revelation 19:5
Theological Significance
Praise is the fitting verbal response of creatures to the glory and goodness of God. The Psalms teach that praise is not an optional religious mood but a central expression of covenant life, rooted in who God is and what He has done.
Common Misunderstanding(s)
Praise is not merely upbeat music or positive emotion. In Scripture it includes deliberate, truth-filled exaltation of God even in seasons of trouble.
Practical Application
This word encourages believers to discipline the tongue toward gratitude and to let worshipful speech shape the heart.