What does "Hosanna in the highest" mean?

Origins of the Term “Hosanna”

The word “Hosanna” is derived from a Hebrew phrase appearing in Psalm 118:25. The underlying Hebrew is “הוֹשִׁיעָה נָא” (hoshi’a na), usually translated as “Save now” or “Please save.” This phrase reflects a plea for divine help. By the first century, the term had also taken on connotations of praise and joyous acclamation, especially during important religious festivities.

Biblical Occurrences and Context

In the New Testament, “Hosanna” appears prominently in the Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. One key passage is Matthew 21:9:

“The crowds that went ahead of Him and those that followed were shouting: ‘Hosanna to the Son of David!’ ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’ ‘Hosanna in the highest!’”

Parallel accounts can be found in Mark 11:9–10 and John 12:13. The crowds greet Jesus with acclamations that directly connect Him to the Davidic Messianic promise (2 Samuel 7:12–16) and link Him to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy (Zechariah 9:9).

Meaning of “Hosanna in the Highest”

1. Recognition of Divine Majesty: “In the highest” amplifies the plea and praise. It can be understood as “let the heavenly realms proclaim this salvation” or “let the highest heavens ring with praise.” It conveys that the salvation requested involves the highest authority.

2. Appeal for Salvation and Praise: While “Hosanna” retains its original meaning of “save us,” by the time of Jesus, it was also a joyful declaration of praise. The onlookers were exalting Jesus’ royal and Messianic identity, calling upon God to verify and fulfill His promises in the person of Christ.

3. Connection to Old Testament Worship: The plea in Psalm 118:25–26, “O LORD, save us, we pray. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD,” becomes a foundational backdrop. The presence of this line at major Jewish feasts (including the use of the Hallel Psalms) shows that the crowds recognized deep covenant themes as they cried, “Hosanna!” to Jesus.

Historical and Manuscript Evidence

Extant Greek manuscripts, including those compiled for critical editions of the New Testament, consistently preserve the reading of “Hosanna in the highest.” The textual transmission demonstrates remarkable stability across centuries and geographical locations.

Archaeological and literary sources from the Second Temple period (such as the Dead Sea Scrolls and other Jewish literature) confirm that Hebrew phrases of praise and petition, like “Hosanna,” were common in religious gatherings. This consistency strengthens the reliability of the Gospel reports regarding what the people shouted at the Triumphal Entry.

Theological Significance

1. Public Acknowledgment of Jesus as Messiah: By addressing Jesus with “Hosanna,” the crowds displayed their hope that He would be the long-awaited Savior and King. This public acclamation occurred just days before His crucifixion and resurrection, underscoring the powerful link between messianic expectation and His atoning work.

2. Fulfillment of God’s Redemptive Plan: “Hosanna in the highest” illustrates how praise and petition merge in one moment—recognizing the identity of Jesus as the One who saves. The acclamation points to His divine authority, an integral aspect of Christ’s mission to provide salvation through His death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3–4).

3. Worship in All Realms: The phrase encapsulates praise not only from those on earth but from the highest realms of creation. This resonates with passages such as Luke 2:14 (the angels praising God at Jesus’ birth) and Revelation 5:9–13 (the cosmic scope of worship).

Practical Reflections for Study and Worship

The phrase “Hosanna in the highest” invites believers to join in the same attitude of surrender and exaltation. Studying this phrase sheds light on how God’s people, throughout history, have cried out for deliverance while simultaneously offering praise.

Whether in personal devotion or corporate worship, reflecting on “Hosanna” reminds individuals to trust in God’s saving power. It teaches that authentic praise often involves both an acknowledgement of need and an expectant hope in the One who rescues and reigns.

Summary

“Hosanna in the highest” originates as a fervent plea for salvation in Psalm 118 and evolves into an exuberant shout of praise. Its New Testament use during Jesus’ Triumphal Entry testifies to His identity as the promised Savior, while manuscript evidence and historical sources corroborate the authenticity of the Gospel accounts. Today, this exclamation reminds believers that Jesus meets humanity’s ultimate need for salvation and deserves our wholehearted worship, both now and forever.