### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb hymnéō (`{{G5214}}`) is derived directly from the noun hymnos (`{{G5215}}`), which means "a hymn" or "a song of praise." At its most fundamental level, hymnéō signifies the act of "singing a hymn." This is not merely general singing, but specifically the performance of a religious ode, a song of praise or adoration directed towards God. The base definition provided further clarifies its implication: "to celebrate (God) in song." This emphasizes the divine object and purpose of the singing. The term conveys a sense of formal, structured, and often communal praise, distinguishing it from more general terms for singing (e.g., adō `{{G103}}`). It inherently carries a connotation of reverence and devotion, indicating an act of worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term hymnéō (`{{G5214}}`) appears in three significant contexts within the New Testament, each revealing a facet of its meaning and theological import:
* **Matthew 26:30 and Mark 14:26:** These parallel accounts describe Jesus and His disciples singing a hymn after the Last Supper, just before going to the Mount of Olives. "And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives" ([[Matthew 26:30]]). This act was almost certainly the singing of the Hallel (Psalms 113-118), a traditional part of the Passover Seder. In this context, hymnéō represents a deeply rooted practice of communal worship and thanksgiving, even in the face of impending betrayal and suffering. It underscores Christ's adherence to and fulfillment of the sacred traditions of Israel, and His profound trust in the Father, even as He walked towards the cross.
* **Acts 16:25:** In a powerful display of faith, Paul and Silas, imprisoned and in stocks in Philippi, are described as "praying and singing hymns to God" ([[Acts 16:25]]). Here, hymnéō illustrates worship as an act of defiance against despair and a testament to God's sovereignty amidst adversity. Their singing was not a desperate plea but an expression of unwavering praise, which providentially led to an earthquake, their release, and the conversion of the jailer and his household. This context highlights the transformative and witnessing power of sincere worship, even in the most dire circumstances.
* **Hebrews 2:12:** This verse quotes Psalm 22:22 and applies it to Christ: "I will declare your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praises" ([[Hebrews 2:12]]). The phrase "I will sing your praises" translates hymnéō (`{{G5214}}`). This is a profound theological statement, portraying Jesus Himself as the leader of worship, participating with His redeemed people in praising God the Father. It emphasizes Christ's solidarity with humanity as our High Priest, who not only enables our worship but also actively engages in it alongside us, making our praise acceptable before God.
These occurrences consistently link hymnéō with acts of devout, often communal, worship, performed at pivotal spiritual moments—whether in sacred tradition, amidst suffering, or as led by Christ Himself.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Hymnos (`{{G5215}}`):** The direct noun form, meaning "a hymn" or "song of praise." Hymnéō is the verbal action of performing a hymnos.
* **Psallō (`{{G5567}}`):** To sing, often with instrumental accompaniment, or to make melody. While psallō can refer to singing psalms, hymnéō specifically denotes the singing of hymns.
* **Adō (`{{G103}}`):** A more general term for "to sing." Hymnéō specifies the *type* of singing as a sacred ode.
* **Aineō (`{{G134}}`):** To praise, laud. Hymnéō is a specific *form* of praise expressed through song.
* **Eucharisteō (`{{G2168}}`):** To give thanks. Hymn-singing often incorporates elements of thanksgiving and gratitude.
* **Doxazō (`{{G1391}}`):** To glorify, honor. Hymns are a primary means by which believers glorify God.
* **Old Testament Echoes:** The Septuagint (LXX) sometimes uses hymnéō (`{{G5214}}`) to translate Hebrew terms like zāmar (`{{H2167}}`, "to sing praise"), connecting the New Testament practice of hymn-singing to the rich tradition of musical worship in ancient Israel, particularly the Psalms.
### Theological Significance
The practice of hymnéō (`{{G5214}}`) holds deep theological significance for believers:
* **Expression of Adoration and Devotion:** It is a fundamental means by which believers express their love, reverence, and adoration for God. It moves beyond mere intellectual assent to an emotional and spiritual outpouring of the soul.
* **Communal Unity and Edification:** The New Testament examples underscore hymnéō as a communal act. Singing hymns together fosters unity among believers, allowing them to collectively acknowledge God's attributes, recount His mighty acts, and express shared faith. This collective voice strengthens the body of Christ and builds up individuals.
* **Worship in All Circumstances:** The example of Paul and Silas demonstrates that hymnéō is not contingent on favorable conditions. It is a powerful act of faith that transcends suffering, fear, and injustice. It testifies to God's sovereignty and can be a potent witness to unbelievers, revealing the sustaining power of faith.
* **Christ's Leadership in Worship:** The depiction of Christ hymnéō in Hebrews 2:12 is profoundly significant. It portrays Jesus as the ultimate worshiper, leading His redeemed brethren in glorifying the Father. This highlights the Trinitarian nature of worship and assures believers that their praise is acceptable through Christ, who identifies with them even in their acts of devotion.
* **Anticipation of Eternal Worship:** The act of hymnéō on earth serves as a foretaste of the eternal worship in heaven, where the redeemed will forever praise God and the Lamb (cf. [[Revelation 5:9-10]], [[Revelation 15:3-4]]). It connects earthly congregational worship to the grand cosmic symphony of praise.
* **Doctrinal Reinforcement:** Hymns often encapsulate core theological truths, narratives of salvation, and the attributes of God. Thus, hymnéō is not merely an emotional exercise but a theological one, reinforcing biblical understanding and shaping spiritual formation within the community.
### Summary
The Greek verb hymnéō (`{{G5214}}`) precisely denotes the act of "singing a hymn" or "celebrating God in song," stemming from hymnos (`{{G5215}}`), a religious ode. Its New Testament occurrences illuminate its profound significance: Jesus and His disciples hymnéō after the Last Supper, embodying reverent tradition and trust; Paul and Silas hymnéō in prison, showcasing resilient faith and powerful witness amidst adversity; and Christ Himself is depicted hymnéō within the congregation, underscoring His role as the ultimate worshiper and leader of His people's praise. Theologically, hymnéō is a vital expression of devotion, a communal act fostering unity and edification, a testament to God's power in all circumstances, and an anticipation of the eternal worship of God. It is a sacred discipline that both reflects and deepens a believer's relationship with the divine.
TRV