Brief Answer

“Hosanna” is a Hebrew term meaning “Save us, we pray” or “Save now.” Over time, it evolved to express praise and joy for anticipated deliverance. In the Bible, particularly during Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, it became a declaration of adoration and recognition of Jesus as the Messiah.

Understanding Hosanna from a Biblical Perspective

The word “hosanna” is deeply rooted in the Bible and carries both a plea for salvation and an acknowledgment of praise:

• Original Meaning: In Hebrew, “hosanna” (הוֹשִׁיעָה נָּא, hoshia na) appears in Psalm 118:25: “Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!” It was initially a cry for help—a heartfelt request for God to rescue and deliver His people.
• A Shift to Praise: By the time of the New Testament, the term had become more celebratory, signaling hope and a joyful acknowledgment of salvation.

Historical Context

• Jewish Traditions: In Jewish tradition, Psalm 118 is part of the Hallel (Psalms 113–118), which is recited during important feasts such as Passover. “Hosanna” was a familiar term to the Jewish people, who would sing it as an expression of trust in God’s deliverance.
• Triumphal Entry: The most famous use of “hosanna” is found in the Gospels during Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:9; Mark 11:9-10; John 12:13). As Jesus rode a donkey into the city, the crowd shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!” This event fulfilled the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9, symbolizing the arrival of the promised King and Savior.

Practical Implications

• Recognition of Jesus’ Lordship: Saying “hosanna” is more than just a call for help; it is a declaration of trust and praise. When Christians use this term today, they are both acknowledging their need for salvation and celebrating Jesus as the One who saves.
• Expression of Joy and Worship: Incorporating “hosanna” in worship is a way to remember that Jesus is both the Savior who hears cries for help and the King who is worthy of praise. It connects the past plea for deliverance with the fulfilled promise in Jesus.

Theological Depth and Insight

• Jesus as the Answer to Hosanna: When the crowd shouted “hosanna” during Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, they may not have fully grasped that He was indeed the ultimate fulfillment of their request for salvation. Theologically, Jesus is the answer to humanity’s deepest cry for deliverance.
• Messianic Fulfillment: The use of “hosanna” during Jesus’ arrival reflects the people’s messianic hope. However, it’s noteworthy that the same crowd that welcomed Jesus with cries of “hosanna” would soon be part of the group that called for His crucifixion. This highlights humanity’s fluctuating understanding and reception of salvation.

Broader Biblical Themes

• Salvation and Deliverance: The theme of God’s deliverance is woven throughout Scripture. From the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt to the ultimate salvation through Jesus, “hosanna” encapsulates the longing for divine rescue.
• Messiah’s Role: The prophetic expectations of a deliverer are echoed in Jesus’ ministry. He not only entered Jerusalem as the King of peace but also fulfilled the greatest act of salvation through His death and resurrection (John 3:17).

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit helps Christians understand and express genuine cries for salvation and praise. Romans 8:26 says, “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” The Holy Spirit empowers believers to move from desperate requests for help to worship-filled proclamations of praise.

Relevance for Today’s Christian

• A Reminder of Dependence: In times of need, saying “hosanna” reminds Christians that they rely on Jesus for salvation—not just once but continually.
• A Heart of Worship: Today, “hosanna” can be used as a heartfelt declaration in worship, reflecting the joy and assurance that Jesus brings salvation and hope.
• Living in Expectation: Just as the people anticipated deliverance through Jesus, Christians today look forward to His return and the final fulfillment of salvation.

Connection to Jesus Christ and God’s Love

“Hosanna” perfectly illustrates the connection between humanity’s need for a Savior and God’s love. In sending Jesus, God responded to the world’s plea for help with the greatest act of love and redemption (Romans 5:8). Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem as the humble King foreshadowed His sacrifice and victory over sin.

Bible Characters

• King David: The author of many psalms, including Psalm 118, which features “hosanna,” David exemplifies reliance on God’s deliverance and his own cries for salvation throughout his life.
• The Disciples: Witnesses to Jesus’ triumphal entry, they would later understand the full weight of “hosanna” after His resurrection and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

• How do I view the term “hosanna” in my own life? Is it a cry for help, an expression of praise, or both?
• In what ways do I recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of my need for salvation?
• How can I incorporate the essence of “hosanna” into my daily worship and prayers?
• What can I learn from the crowd’s mixed response to Jesus that can help me be more consistent in my faith?

“Hosanna” reminds believers that Jesus is not just a historical figure, but the living answer to our deepest need for salvation. It reflects the call for rescue and the resounding joy of knowing that salvation is found in Christ alone.