The Great Hallel
The Great Hallel, specifically Psalm 136, is a significant prayer of thanksgiving in Jewish tradition. This Psalm is traditionally sung at the conclusion of the Jewish Passover meal and is known for its profound expressions of gratitude towards God for His continuous goodness throughout human history. The Great Hallel is a hymn of praise that encapsulates the entire history of salvation as recorded in the Old Testament. It celebrates the Lord’s steadfast love, which endures forever, and recounts the wonders God has performed in human history, from creation to liberation through the Exodus, to the providence and constant help provided to His people. The Psalm is structured as a litany, with a repeated antiphonal refrain emphasizing God’s enduring love and faithfulness. The Great Hallel serves as a reminder of God’s goodness, mercy, and presence in the lives of His people, offering hope and guidance even in the darkest times. It is a powerful testament to the enduring love and providence of God throughout history, inspiring believers to trust in His goodness and mercy
Biblical reference
Psalm 136
King James Version
1 O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
2 O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever.
3 O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever.
4 To him who alone doeth great wonders: for his mercy endureth for ever.
5 To him that by wisdom made the heavens: for his mercy endureth for ever.
6 To him that stretched out the earth above the waters: for his mercy endureth for ever.
7 To him that made great lights: for his mercy endureth for ever:
8 The sun to rule by day: for his mercy endureth for ever:
9 The moon and stars to rule by night: for his mercy endureth for ever.
10 To him that smote Egypt in their firstborn: for his mercy endureth for ever:
11 And brought out Israel from among them: for his mercy endureth for ever:
12 With a strong hand, and with a stretched out arm: for his mercy endureth for ever.
13 To him which divided the Red sea into parts: for his mercy endureth for ever:
14 And made Israel to pass through the midst of it: for his mercy endureth for ever:
15 But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy endureth for ever.
16 To him which led his people through the wilderness: for his mercy endureth for ever.
17 To him which smote great kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:
18 And slew famous kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:
19 Sihon king of the Amorites: for his mercy endureth for ever:
20 And Og the king of Bashan: for his mercy endureth for ever:
21 And gave their land for an heritage: for his mercy endureth for ever:
22 Even an heritage unto Israel his servant: for his mercy endureth for ever.
23 Who remembered us in our low estate: for his mercy endureth for ever:
24 And hath redeemed us from our enemies: for his mercy endureth for ever.
25 Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth for ever.
26 O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever.
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History of the Great Hallel
The Great Hallel, specifically Psalm 136, is a hymn of praise deeply rooted in Jewish tradition. It is a prayer of thanksgiving that celebrates the Lord’s goodness throughout human history. This Psalm is traditionally sung at the conclusion of the Jewish Passover meal, symbolizing gratitude for God’s continuous blessings and interventions in the lives of His people. The Great Hallel serves as a powerful testament to the enduring love and providence of God, recounting significant events such as the Exodus from Egypt and the giving of the Torah. Its history dates back to ancient times when Jews recited these hymns during the three Pilgrim Festivals while offering sacrifices in the Temple of Jerusalem. And so did Jesus and his disciples!
Significance of the Great Hallel in Jewish Tradition
The Great Hallel holds immense significance in Jewish liturgy and religious practice. It is a collection of Psalms (113-118) that express faith in Divine Providence and gratitude for God’s continuous blessings. This hymn of praise is recited on festive occasions, such as the Sabbath, festivals, and during the Passover Seder. The Psalms within the Great Hallel emphasize the enduring mercy and love of God, serving as a reminder of His faithfulness throughout history. The recitation of the Great Hallel is a profound act of worship and thanksgiving, highlighting the central role of praise and gratitude in Jewish spirituality.
Recitation of the Great Hallel During the Passover Seder
During the Passover Seder, the Great Hallel is recited as part of the traditional celebration. It is sung after the standard Hallel is completed, marking a significant moment of praise and thanksgiving in the Passover ritual. The Great Hallel, Psalm 136, is a solemn prayer of thanksgiving that reflects on the history of salvation and God’s continuous goodness towards His people. This recitation during the Passover Seder underscores the importance of acknowledging and praising God’s mercy and love, especially in the context of the Exodus story and the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. The Great Hallel serves as a central component of the Passover celebration, reinforcing the themes of redemption, gratitude, and faith in Jewish tradition.
Structure of the Great Hallel
The Great Hallel, specifically Psalm 136, is structured with well-marked groups of verses. It is organized in groups of three verses until verse 18, followed by two groups of four verses. This Psalm is a litany of praise that celebrates the Lord’s goodness throughout human history. The structure of the Great Hallel emphasizes the repeated refrain “for his steadfast love endures forever,” underscoring God’s enduring mercy and faithfulness towards His people. Each section of the Psalm highlights different aspects of God’s love and intervention in the lives of His followers, culminating in a call to give thanks to the God of heaven for His everlasting mercy.
Difference Between the Great Hallel and Other Hallel Prayers
The Great Hallel, Psalm 136, is distinguished from other Hallel prayers by its specific focus on praising God for His great kindness and mercy. Unlike the Egyptian Hallel, which comprises Psalms 113 to 118, the Great Hallel is solely Psalm 136. This Psalm is known for its profound expressions of gratitude and thanksgiving towards God, highlighting His continuous care and provision for His people. The Great Hallel is recited on various occasions in Jewish tradition, including the Passover Seder, to commemorate God’s goodness and faithfulness throughout history. Its unique emphasis on God’s enduring love sets it apart as a powerful hymn of praise within the Jewish liturgy.
