Topical Bible: The Feast of Tabernacles: Customs Observed At: Singing Hosannas

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Feast of Tabernacles, also known as Sukkot, is one of the biblically mandated pilgrimage festivals, celebrated by the Jewish people as a time of thanksgiving for the harvest and a commemoration of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. Among the various customs observed during this festival, the singing of Hosannas holds a significant place.

Biblical Foundation

The term "Hosanna" is derived from the Hebrew phrase "Hoshana," meaning "Save, please" or "Save now." This expression is deeply rooted in the Jewish liturgical tradition and is prominently featured in the Psalms. Psalm 118:25-26 states, "O LORD, save us, we pray. We beseech You, O LORD, cause us to prosper! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD. From the house of the LORD we bless you."

Liturgical Practice

During the Feast of Tabernacles, the singing of Hosannas is particularly associated with the Hoshana Rabbah, the seventh day of the festival. This day is marked by a special service in which worshippers make circuits around the synagogue while holding the lulav (a bundle of palm, myrtle, and willow branches) and the etrog (a citron fruit). As they process, they chant the Hosanna prayers, invoking God's salvation and blessing.

Symbolic Significance

The singing of Hosannas during Sukkot is not merely a ritualistic practice but carries profound theological significance. It is an expression of reliance on God's providence and a plea for deliverance and prosperity. The act of singing these prayers during the festival underscores the themes of divine protection and sustenance, reflecting the historical experience of the Israelites in the wilderness.

New Testament Connection

In the New Testament, the cry of "Hosanna" is notably associated with the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, as recorded in the Gospels. In Matthew 21:9 , the crowds shout, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" This acclamation acknowledges Jesus as the promised Messiah and echoes the liturgical traditions of Sukkot, linking the festival's themes of salvation and divine kingship to the person of Christ.

Contemporary Observance

Today, the singing of Hosannas during the Feast of Tabernacles continues to be a vibrant part of Jewish worship. It serves as a reminder of God's past deliverance and a hopeful anticipation of future redemption. For Christians, the Hosanna cry resonates with the acknowledgment of Jesus as Savior and King, enriching the understanding of this ancient festival's enduring spiritual legacy.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 118:24-29
This is the day which the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 21:8,9
And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, and strewed them in the way.
Torrey's Topical Textbook