Bible Dictionaries
Hallel

Holman Bible Dictionary

A song of praise. The name derives from the Hebrew “Praise Thou.” The singing of psalms of praise was a special duty of the Levites (2 Chronicles 7:6; Ezra 3:11 ). The “Egyptian” Hallel (Psalm 113-118 ) was recited in homes as part of the Passover celebration (compare Psalm 114:1; Matthew 26:30 ). The “Great Hallel” was recited in the Temple as the Passover lambs were being slain and at Pentecost, Tabernacles, and Dedication. Scholars disagree as to the original extent of the “Great Hallel” with some limiting the Hallel to Psalm 136:1 , some including Psalm 135:1 , and still others including the “Songs of Ascents” (Psalm 120-134 ).