### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἀλληλουϊα (allēlouïa, `{{G239}}`) is a direct transliteration from the Hebrew phrase הַלְלוּ יָהּ (hallelū Yah). Its core meaning is an imperative command: "Praise Yah!" or "Praise the Lord!" The first part, הַלְלוּ (hallelū), is the plural imperative form of the verb הָלַל (halal, `{{H1984}}`), which means "to praise, laud, boast, celebrate, rave." This verb often implies an enthusiastic, even exultant, form of praise. The second part, יָהּ (Yah, `{{H3050}}`), is a shortened, poetic form of יְהֹוָה (Yahweh, `{{H3068}}`), the personal covenant name of God. Thus, ἀλληλουϊα functions as a fervent, communal exhortation to ascribe glory and honor to the one true God. Semantically, it encapsulates a call to worship, an expression of profound adoration, and often a declaration of God's triumphant power and righteous judgment. It is not merely a statement but a powerful acclamation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, the Greek transliteration ἀλληλουϊα (allēlouïa, `{{G239}}`) appears exclusively within the Book of Revelation, occurring four times in a single, climactic passage in chapter 19:
* **[[Revelation 19:1]]**: "After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven shouting: 'Alleluia! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for true and just are his judgments.'" Here, it introduces a chorus of praise that acknowledges God's righteous judgment and ultimate sovereignty following the destruction of Babylon.
* **[[Revelation 19:3]]**: "And again they cried out: 'Alleluia! The smoke from her goes up forever and ever.'" This reiterates the finality and justice of the divine judgment, emphasizing the eternal consequences for those who oppose God.
* **[[Revelation 19:4]]**: "The twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God, who was seated on the throne, saying: 'Amen! Alleluia!'" This occurrence highlights the universal nature of this heavenly praise, involving even the highest ranks of the celestial court.
* **[[Revelation 19:6]]**: "Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: 'Alleluia! For our Lord God Almighty reigns!'" This final, thunderous declaration links the praise directly to God's absolute reign and omnipotence, anticipating the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.
While ἀλληλουϊα appears only in Revelation in the Greek New Testament, its Hebrew original הַלְלוּ יָהּ is a common liturgical refrain in the Old Testament, particularly in the Psalms. It marks the beginning or end of many Psalms, especially Psalms 104-106, 111-113, 115-117, 135, and 146-150, which are often referred to as the "Hallel Psalms." These Psalms are songs of praise, thanksgiving, and remembrance of God's mighty acts of salvation and creation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary conceptual relatives of ἀλληλουϊα stem from its Hebrew origin:
* **הָלַל (halal, `{{H1984}}`)**: The root verb for "praise," encompassing a wide range of expressions from quiet reverence to exuberant celebration. This verb is foundational to understanding the dynamic nature of "Alleluia."
* **יָהּ (Yah, `{{H3050}}`)**: The abbreviated form of God's personal name, יְהֹוָה (Yahweh, `{{H3068}}`), signifying that the praise is directed specifically to the covenant-keeping God of Israel.
In the Greek New Testament, while ἀλληλουϊα is unique, its thematic concept of praise and glory is conveyed by other terms:
* **αἶνος (ainos, `{{G136}}`)**: "Praise," often in the context of a hymn or song of praise.
* **ἔπαινος (epainos, `{{G1868}}`)**: "Praise, commendation," often for good deeds or character.
* **δοξάζω (doxazō, `{{G1392}}`)**: "To glorify, honor," emphasizing the ascription of glory to God.
* **εὐλογέω (eulogeō, `{{G2127}}`)**: "To bless, praise," used for blessing God for His goodness.
The concept of "Alleluia" is intrinsically linked to broader theological themes such as worship, thanksgiving, divine sovereignty, and eschatological triumph. It is the ultimate expression of adoration in response to God's righteous acts and His reigning authority.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἀλληλουϊα in Revelation is profound and multifaceted:
* **Declaration of Divine Sovereignty and Justice:** The most prominent theological import is its resounding affirmation of God's absolute rule and His unimpeachable justice. Uttered in response to the downfall of evil and the vindication of His saints, "Alleluia" serves as a triumphant declaration that God is ultimately in control, righteous in His judgments, and faithful to bring His purposes to fruition. It underscores the belief that despite earthly chaos, God's reign is eternal and His justice will prevail.
* **Communal Worship and Adoration:** The repeated cries of "Alleluia" by a "great multitude" and the heavenly court emphasize its role as a collective and fervent acclamation of praise. It signifies a unified, universal adoration of God, reflecting the ultimate purpose of all creation to glorify its Creator. It is a summons for all beings to acknowledge God's majesty, power, and worth.
* **Consummation of Salvation History:** The "Alleluia" choruses in Revelation mark a pivotal moment in redemptive history—the final victory of God over His enemies and the ushering in of His eternal kingdom. It is the sound of heaven rejoicing over the fulfillment of God's promises, the complete salvation of His people, and the final establishment of righteousness.
* **Eternal Praise:** The eschatological context in Revelation suggests that "Alleluia" is not merely a temporary outburst but an eternal anthem of praise in God's presence. It points to a future reality where praise will be unceasing, complete, and the defining characteristic of the heavenly realm. It is the very language of eternity, expressing unending devotion to the King of kings.
### Summary
The Greek word ἀλληλουϊα (allēlouïa, `{{G239}}`) is a transliteration of the Hebrew הַלְלוּ יָהּ, meaning "Praise Yah!" or "Praise the Lord!" It functions as a powerful, imperative exhortation to communal praise directed toward God. In the New Testament, its exclusive appearance in the Book of Revelation ([[Revelation 19:1]], [[Revelation 19:3]], [[Revelation 19:4]], [[Revelation 19:6]]) places it within a context of climactic heavenly worship. These occurrences celebrate God's righteous judgment over evil and His undisputed sovereignty, culminating in the declaration that "our Lord God Almighty reigns." Theologically, ἀλληλουϊα encapsulates the ultimate triumph of divine justice, the fervent and unified adoration of God by all creation, and the joyful consummation of salvation history. It is a profound expression of worship, acknowledging God's supreme power, glory, and faithfulness, and serves as an eternal anthem of praise for the reigning Lord.
TRV