What does "holy, holy, holy" mean in the Bible?

1. Introduction

“Holy, holy, holy” is a phrase found in the Bible that underscores the supreme holiness of God. This threefold repetition appears in vital passages demonstrating the majesty and character of the LORD and is closely linked to themes of worship, awe, and divine revelation. Its usage transcends time and context, resonating across both Old and New Testaments.

2. Scriptural Occurrences

In the Old Testament, “holy, holy, holy” is famously declared by the seraphim in the prophet’s vision:

• “And they were calling out to one another: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; all the earth is full of His glory.’” (Isaiah 6:3)

The New Testament echoes this declaration of the divine attribute:

• “And each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around and within. Day and night they never stop saying: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come!’” (Revelation 4:8)

These two references link the worship scene in Isaiah’s vision with the throne-room worship described by John, providing a sweeping glimpse of the continuity of God’s revelation and redemptive plan.

3. The Meaning of “Holy” in Biblical Language

The word “holy” in biblical contexts often carries the sense of being completely set apart, utterly transcendent, morally perfect, and uniquely pure. In Hebrew, the term “qadosh” (קָדוֹשׁ) conveys a realm of purity and distinction beyond all creation. To be holy is to be separate from common use, belonging uniquely to God. In Greek, the word “hagios” (ἅγιος) similarly implies sacredness and an otherworldly purity.

Throughout Scripture, holiness is one of the defining characteristics of God (cf. Psalm 99:9, 1 Samuel 2:2). It encompasses both moral perfection—being without sin—and infinite majesty, dwelling in unapproachable light (cf. 1 Timothy 6:16).

4. The Significance of the Triple Emphasis

The repetition “holy, holy, holy” underscores a superlative degree, intensifying the declaration. Repetition in Hebrew is used to convey importance and emphasis. By stating “holy” three times, the seraphim and the heavenly beings are attributing absolute perfection and transcendence to God’s character.

Additionally, many interpreters observe that a threefold declaration can point to completeness or fullness. Some also emphasize that this thrice-repeated term can hint at the scriptural witness to God’s triune nature—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—though even on its own, the triple repetition conveys emphasis and total holiness.

5. Historical and Manuscript Reliability

Evidence for the phrase and the broader context of Isaiah 6:3 is found in ancient manuscripts such as the Great Isaiah Scroll discovered among the Dead Sea Scrolls. This first-century BC textual witness concurs with the Masoretic Text, affirming the consistency and preservation of the passage across centuries.

Additionally, New Testament manuscripts, including early papyrus fragments (e.g., Papyrus 47) and major codices (like Codex Sinaiticus), likewise support the wording of Revelation 4:8. This unity of the manuscript tradition underscores the reliability of the biblical text that proclaims God’s threefold holiness.

6. The Divine Attribute of Holiness and Its Broader Context

Holiness defines God’s entire being and underlines His moral perfection, justice, and love. Because God is holy, He sets the standard for righteousness (Leviticus 11:45). His ultimate “otherness” means there is none comparable to Him, and such holiness draws awe and humility from creation.

When Moses encountered God at the burning bush, he was told: “Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” (Exodus 3:5). This event typifies how God’s holiness sanctifies a place or object, underscoring His absolute purity and power.

7. God’s Holiness in Worship

In worship, declaring God’s holiness fosters reverence. From the angels in heaven to worshipers on earth, acknowledging “holy, holy, holy” remains central in adoration of the Almighty. The heavenly scenes in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4 illustrate angelic beings continuously giving glory to God, underscoring that His holiness is not a passive feature; it is continually celebrated and proclaimed.

The repeated declaration also shapes a believer’s response when confronted by divine glory. Isaiah’s immediate reaction—“Woe is me, for I am ruined!” (Isaiah 6:5)—reflects an overwhelming awareness of personal sin in light of God’s pristine holiness, highlighting the transformative power of encountering the holy One.

8. Implications for Believers

• Call to Holiness: The exhortation in Scripture is that those who follow God should themselves be holy: “Be holy, because I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). While human imperfection remains evident, the believer’s life is set on a path of growing in holiness through the power of God’s Spirit.

• Worship and Lifestyle: Recognizing that God is “holy, holy, holy” compels a life of worship extending beyond songs and liturgy into every thought, word, and action. It encourages a devotion aligning with God’s nature, offering genuine honor to the One who is perfectly pure.

• Awareness of God’s Majesty: Meditating on God’s holiness fosters deep reverence and humility. It also offers comfort, assuring that the universe’s source and ruler is entirely good and just. This recognition disappears any notion of randomness or moral ambiguity at the highest throne.

9. Conclusion

“Holy, holy, holy” remains a profound scriptural declaration spanning Isaiah’s vision and John’s Revelation. It affirms the absolute moral perfection, unmatched power, and transcendent nature of the Creator, the one who was, who is, and who is to come. The biblical witness—verified by consistent ancient manuscripts—testifies that God’s holiness extends beyond mere moral uprightness; it encompasses the fullness of His unique and eternal being.

This threefold refrain continues to invite worshipers to respond in humility, awe, and dedication. As Scripture demonstrates, encountering God’s holiness changes hearts, shapes destinies, and proclaims that the Almighty is exalted above all.